red cedar wood boards for sale

Red Cedar Wood Boards for Sale: A Comprehensive Guide

red cedar wood boards for sale, Red cedar wood is a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor projects due to its durability, natural beauty, and resistance to decay and insects. Whether you’re building a deck, fence, furniture, or siding, red cedar offers an excellent combination of strength and aesthetic appeal.

If you’re looking for red cedar wood boards for sale, this guide will help you understand the different types, benefits, uses, and where to buy them. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions to assist you in making an informed purchase.

Why Choose Red Cedar Wood?

1. Natural Durability & Resistance

  • Red cedar contains natural oils that repel insects, including termites and carpenter ants.
  • It is highly resistant to moisture, rot, and decay, making it ideal for outdoor use.
  • Unlike pressure-treated wood, red cedar doesn’t require chemical treatments to enhance its longevity.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

  • Red cedar has a rich, warm color that ranges from light amber to deep reddish-brown.
  • Its fine, straight grain and smooth texture make it easy to work with and stain.
  • Over time, red cedar weathers to an attractive silvery-gray patina if left untreated.

3. Lightweight & Easy to Work With

  • Red cedar is softer than many hardwoods, making it easy to cut, shape, and sand.
  • It holds nails and screws well without splitting, making it ideal for DIY projects.

4. Eco-Friendly Choice

  • Cedar is a sustainable wood option, as it is often sourced from responsibly managed forests.
  • It is biodegradable and doesn’t release harmful chemicals into the environment.

Common Uses for Red Cedar Wood Boards

Red cedar wood boards are versatile and can be used for:

  • Outdoor Projects: Fences, decks, pergolas, gazebos, and siding.
  • Indoor Projects: Furniture, paneling, closets, and trim work.
  • Specialty Uses: Saunas, chests (due to its moth-repelling properties), and musical instruments.

Types of Red Cedar Wood Boards Available

When shopping for red cedar wood boards, you’ll encounter different grades and cuts:

1. Clear Cedar (Premium Grade)

  • Free of knots and defects.
  • Best for high-end furniture and visible applications.

2. Knotty Cedar (Standard Grade)

  • Contains natural knots, giving it a rustic look.
  • Great for fencing, paneling, and outdoor structures.

3. Rough-Sawn Cedar

  • Unfinished, textured surface.
  • Ideal for rustic or natural-looking projects.

4. Smooth (S4S) Cedar

  • Planed smooth on all four sides.
  • Ready for staining, painting, or sealing.

5. Tongue & Groove Cedar

  • Designed for seamless paneling and siding installations.

Where to Buy Red Cedar Wood Boards

You can purchase red cedar wood boards from:

  • Local Lumber Yards & Sawmills – Best for bulk purchases and custom cuts.
  • Home Improvement Stores (e.g., Home Depot, Lowe’s) – Convenient for small projects.
  • Online Retailers (e.g., Etsy, eBay, specialty wood suppliers) – Good for rare cuts and shipping options.
  • Specialty Wood Suppliers – Ideal for high-quality, kiln-dried cedar.

Price Range

  • Prices vary based on grade, thickness, and quantity.
  • Expect to pay 3–10 per linear foot, depending on quality.

FAQs About Red Cedar Wood Boards

1. Is red cedar good for outdoor use?

Yes! Red cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, rot, and insects, making it an excellent choice for decks, fences, and siding.

2. Does red cedar need to be sealed or stained?

While red cedar is naturally durable, applying a sealant or stain can enhance its lifespan and maintain its color. Untreated cedar will gradually turn silvery-gray.

3. How long does red cedar last outdoors?

With proper maintenance, red cedar can last 20–30 years or more outdoors. Regular sealing can extend its life.

4. Can red cedar be painted?

Yes, but it’s recommended to use a high-quality primer first, as cedar’s natural oils can prevent paint from adhering properly.

5. Is red cedar wood expensive?

Red cedar is more affordable than hardwoods like mahogany but pricier than pressure-treated pine. Its longevity and beauty justify the cost for many buyers.

6. How do I maintain red cedar wood?

  • Clean annually with mild soap and water.
  • Reapply sealant or stain every 2–3 years for optimal protection.

7. Can red cedar be used for indoor furniture?

Absolutely! Its pleasant aroma, smooth texture, and resistance to warping make it a great choice for tables, cabinets, and bed frames.

8. Does red cedar repel moths?

Yes, the natural oils in red cedar act as a moth repellent, which is why it’s commonly used for closet linings and storage chests.

9. What’s the difference between Western Red Cedar and Eastern Red Cedar?

  • Western Red Cedar is softer, more rot-resistant, and commonly used for outdoor projects.
  • Eastern Red Cedar is harder, more aromatic, and often used for indoor furniture and closets.

10. Where can I find affordable red cedar wood boards?

Check local sawmills for discounted rough-cut cedar or look for sales at home improvement stores. Buying in bulk can also reduce costs.