How expensive is it compared to other wood types? Cedar is expensive compared to other wood types by $8-$5 per linear foot, including labor. An average wood per linear foot range from $2-$3.
However, cedar lumber is also one of the most expensive types of lumber on the market. The high cost of cedar lumber is due to a number of factors, including the limited supply of cedar trees and the high demand for the lumber.
Overall, cedar prices are now in the normal or “reasonable” range as opposed to the past 2-1/2years of high pricing. Engineered Wood Products – For LVL and I-joists availability is no longer a concern as inventories are piling up at all of the distribution chains. Further, pricing is going down bit by bit.
As you may already notice, cedar wood prices are higher than other lumber types. The cost may put you off, but our woodworking experts assure you it's a wise long-term investment. These materials are durable enough to last decades and add value to your property with proper care and maintenance.
There is a shortage of western red cedar because it is a very slow-growing tree. It can take up to 200 years for a western red cedar tree to reach maturity. Because of this, there are not as many western red cedar trees as there are other types of trees.
The Ashland mill was closed in January 2023 when its cedar stocks ran out. The Oakfield and Chester mills will continue to operate on a limited basis to fulfill home and fencing orders with the cedar logs in inventory. It is projected that the company will deplete its cedar stocks in June.
When it comes to comparing treated wood vs. cedar, pressure-treated wood is the sturdier and more weather-proof of the two. It's highly resistant to insect attack and rot, and special versions rated for “ground contact” can be buried in soil and will continue to shrug off decay for decades.
Cost-Effective Option
You can easily find pine, and it's readily available from many suppliers. Cedar, on the other hand, is a rare type of wood. Because of this supply issue, pine is usually more affordable than cedar, which is why many homeowners prefer to use it for their fences.
Key Takeaway: Red cedar is more expensive but sturdier and slightly more resistant to insects and rot, so overall value might be higher in the long run.
Simonson's lumber experts say they're anticipating lower overall numbers compared to mid-pandemic prices, but do not foresee 2023 prices dipping lower than what we are seeing at the end of 2022.
U.S. lumber consumption will fall somewhere between 4% and 5% in 2023, Jalbert predicts. He estimates that in 2022, lumber consumption fell by 1.6% as a result of "sudden weakening in new residential construction activity in the second half of the year and a major correction in do-it-yourself (DIY) lumber demand."
Lifespan Of Cedar Wood
Cedar wood may last over 20 years when used in outdoor structures, such as decks, pergolas, gazebos, or furniture. It can last between 15 and 20 years when used for constructing a fence or support posts.
If you monitor lumber prices in general, you know they typically start falling around Labor day and reach their yearly low around Thanksgiving. This could present a good buying opportunity for individual buyers, companies and investors.
Title: Western red cedar (Thuja plicata)
It is one of the most valuable conifers owing to the unique colour, texture and durability of its wood. It grows at low to mid elevations along the BC coast and in wetter parts of the southern interior.
According to the National Association of Home Builders, these prices increased the cost of building an average new single-family home significantly. Lumber prices in 2022 have been better than last year, but are still high from a historical long view.
2. Douglas Fir— a durable, rock-solid & affordable all rounder. Slow-growing, almost knot free and with a fine grain, Douglas Fir's irresistible creamy yellow-to-brown hues have won it many fans — and that's not to mention that it typically comes in around 35–40% cheaper than Western Red Cedar.
Pine and cedar are both softwoods, but cedar is a tougher variety. While both can be used for furniture and interior decorating, cedar's durability, as well as its rot- and pest-resistance, gives it a leg up when it comes to outdoor/patio furniture.
Cedar trees also absorb a great deal of water, which robs the land and water sources of their water supply. In a normal year, this is not as much of a problem. But during dry years it can really hinder grass production, which is ultimately what ranching is all about. Another reason to keep cedars away is cosmetic.
Untreated cedar can last 25 to 30 years without wood infusions or surface treatments, unlike many other types of decking material. However, this doesn't mean that a cedar deck requires zero maintenance.
Properties. Western Red Cedar is one of the world's most durable woods, as it has a natural resistance to moisture, decay and insect damage. It has twice the stability of most commonly available softwoods due to its low density and shrinkage factors.
Sealing cedar siding is not only important for protecting it from the elements but also for maintaining its rich natural color. Cedar naturally contains oils that help to repel moisture and insects, which makes it a great choice for siding.
Treated lumber is a pine that is often a more cost-effective option as it is treated with chemicals to resist rot, decay, and insect damage. It is also a more durable option than cedar, making it a good choice for areas that experience heavy rainfall or high humidity.
If you're looking to make a lengthy investment, consider the fact that cedar fences will stand, with no maintenance, for up to 25 years. Meanwhile, pressure treated pine last up to 15 years, provided you are regularly maintaining it.