cedar boards for sale

Cedar Boards for Sale: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to building, crafting, or renovating, cedar boards stand out as one of the most versatile and sought-after materials. Whether you’re constructing a deck, adding accents to your interior decor, or creating outdoor furniture, cedar offers unmatched beauty, durability, and resistance to the elements. This guide will explore everything you need to know about cedar boards for sale—from their benefits and types to buying tips and maintenance advice.

Why Choose Cedar Boards?

1. Durability and Longevity

Cedar is a naturally durable wood that resists rot, decay, and insect damage. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor applications such as fencing, siding, and decking.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

Cedar boards are prized for their rich, warm tones and unique grain patterns. They can be stained, painted, or left untreated to develop a natural silvery patina over time.

3. Natural Aromatic Qualities

Cedar wood emits a pleasant, distinctive aroma, which not only adds to its charm but also repels moths and other pests.

4. Eco-Friendly Option

Cedar is a renewable resource. Its cultivation and harvesting have a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic building materials.

5. Ease of Workability

Cedar is lightweight and easy to cut, shape, and join, making it a favorite among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Types of Cedar Boards

Cedar boards come in a variety of types and grades, each suited for different applications:

1. Western Red Cedar

  • Features: Known for its reddish-brown hue and straight grain.
  • Applications: Ideal for decking, siding, and outdoor furniture.
  • Benefits: High resistance to moisture and decay.

2. Eastern White Cedar

  • Features: Lighter in color, with a fine texture.
  • Applications: Commonly used for shingles, fencing, and small crafts.
  • Benefits: Offers a smooth finish and resists splitting.

3. Northern White Cedar

  • Features: Pale yellow or white tones.
  • Applications: Popular for log cabins and rustic furniture.
  • Benefits: Naturally lightweight and resistant to decay.

4. Alaskan Yellow Cedar

  • Features: Yellowish hue with a fine, uniform texture.
  • Applications: Used for boat building, shingles, and outdoor structures.
  • Benefits: Extremely durable and weather-resistant.

5. Spanish Cedar

  • Features: Reddish-brown wood with a mild fragrance.
  • Applications: Commonly used for cabinetry, humidors, and fine furniture.
  • Benefits: Naturally resistant to termites and rot.

Grades of Cedar Boards

Cedar boards are graded based on their appearance and quality:

1. Clear Grade

  • Minimal knots and blemishes.
  • Best for high-visibility applications like furniture and paneling.

2. Knotty Grade

  • Includes knots and imperfections.
  • Offers a rustic charm suitable for fencing and outdoor use.

3. Select Tight Knot (STK)

  • Knots are tight and sound, preventing them from falling out.
  • Ideal for decorative and structural applications.

4. Appearance Grade

  • Prioritizes aesthetic quality.
  • Often used for projects requiring a flawless finish.

Where to Buy Cedar Boards

1. Local Lumberyards

  • Pros: Wide selection, knowledgeable staff, and often better prices for bulk purchases.
  • Cons: Limited online presence and availability may vary.

2. Big-Box Retailers

  • Examples: Home Depot, Lowe’s.
  • Pros: Convenient locations and online ordering options.
  • Cons: May offer a narrower range of grades and types.

3. Specialty Wood Suppliers

  • Pros: High-quality products and specialized cuts.
  • Cons: Higher prices and limited geographic reach.

4. Online Retailers

  • Examples: Woodcraft, CedarDirect.
  • Pros: Extensive selection and the convenience of home delivery.
  • Cons: Shipping costs and inability to inspect boards in person.

5. Local Classifieds and Reclaimed Wood Stores

  • Pros: Cost-effective and sustainable.
  • Cons: Limited consistency in quality and availability.

Tips for Buying Cedar Boards

1. Determine Your Project Requirements

Before shopping, define your project’s dimensions, desired aesthetics, and budget. This will help narrow down your options.

2. Inspect for Quality

If possible, inspect boards in person. Look for straightness, uniform grain, and minimal defects.

3. Choose the Right Grade

Select a grade that aligns with your project’s needs. For example, opt for clear grades for furniture and knotty grades for fencing.

4. Consider Moisture Content

Ensure the boards are properly dried to prevent warping or shrinking after installation.

5. Compare Prices

Shop around to find the best deal. Don’t forget to factor in delivery costs if buying online.

Cedar Board Pricing

The cost of cedar boards can vary based on factors such as type, grade, and size. Here’s a general breakdown:

  • Western Red Cedar: $5–$15 per linear foot.
  • Eastern White Cedar: $4–$12 per linear foot.
  • Northern White Cedar: $3–$10 per linear foot.
  • Alaskan Yellow Cedar: $7–$20 per linear foot.
  • Spanish Cedar: $8–$25 per board foot.

Caring for Cedar Boards

1. Sealing and Staining

Apply a sealant or stain to protect cedar from UV rays and moisture, especially for outdoor projects.

2. Regular Cleaning

Clean cedar surfaces periodically with a mild detergent and water to remove dirt and mildew.

3. Inspect for Damage

Check for signs of splitting, warping, or insect damage and address issues promptly.

4. Reapply Finishes

For outdoor applications, reapply protective finishes every 2–3 years to maintain durability and appearance.

Popular Cedar Board Projects

1. Decking

Cedar’s natural resistance to moisture makes it ideal for creating beautiful and long-lasting decks.

2. Siding

Cedar siding adds a timeless charm to homes, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits.

3. Fencing

Create durable and attractive fences that stand up to weather and insects.

4. Furniture

From benches to tables, cedar’s workability makes it a favorite for crafting unique furniture pieces.

5. Garden Beds

Cedar’s resistance to rot makes it perfect for building raised garden beds that will last for years.

Environmental Benefits of Cedar Boards

Cedar is a sustainable choice for eco-conscious builders. Its natural durability reduces the need for chemical treatments, and its production has a lower carbon footprint compared to synthetic alternatives.

Certifications to Look For

  • Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): Ensures the wood is sourced responsibly.
  • Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC): Promotes sustainable forest management.