Although there are some key differences, it is important to note that white cedar is an excellent material. White cedar is slightly stronger than red cedar, almost as resistant to rot and decay, and has a beautiful finish.
The main differences between white cedar and red cedar are in terms of durability and strength. Red cedar is slightly stronger than white cedar fence. It's less prone to knotting. Knotting is a serious issue in fencing.
Western red cedar (Thuja plicata) reigns supreme for the production of decking, siding, shingles, and outdoor structures because of its natural decay resistance, ability to repel water, and abundance.
It's a durable wood that is naturally resistant to rot, decay and insect attacks, and resists moisture absorption, so it tends to last longer, needs less maintenance, and doesn't warp or split as easily. A cedar deck can last for 15-20 years or more, depending on maintenance and environment.
One oft-mentioned selling point of cedar is that you can treat it with oils, stains, or paints—or let it weather on its own. Some owners like this look, while others may think that it looks tired. When fully weathered, cedar takes on a light silvery-gray appearance.
Naturally Rot Resistant.
White Cedars contain natural resins and oils that make them resistant to insects, rot and decay. As a result white cedar is perfect for products that come into contact with water and soil such as fencing, house siding, decking, outdoor showers, saunas and raised garden beds.
Today, Western Red Cedar is used for building and is especially famous for outdoor structures such as gazebos, pergolas, and decks. This wood is also used in siding, paneling, and garden benches because it is a natural termite repellent due to its soft, earthy smell.
Resistance to decay: Western red cedar is the most decay-resistant cedar, making it great for outdoor construction projects like shakes and shingles. It is also one of the longest-living North American softwood trees.
Eastern and Western red cedar are gymnosperm trees, so most cedar wood is considered softwood. Spanish and yellow cedar, however, are hardwoods. With that said, Eastern red cedar, although considered a softwood, has a significantly higher janka rating than the other varities and is thus stronger and more durable.
Clear V.G.
This is the highest Bevel siding grade. All Clear V.G. Heart grade is sawn vertical grain (edge grain) and is kiln dried. Pieces have a smooth face of decay-resistant heartwood and are free from growth characteristics that affect appearance or performance.
In addition to its attractive natural features, western red cedar is also durable, stable, and resistant to rot, decay, and pests. These properties make western red cedar ideal for building decks, fences, siding, furniture, and even musical instruments.
Custom Milled Clear, Vertical Grain Alaska Yellow Cedar
Clear, vertical grain is the highest grade of Cedar, and as you might guess, the most expensive. The wood is sawn specifically so that all the growth rings are parallel to each other on the face of the board.
Red cedar also offers great insulation values as well as natural insect repellent properties. In terms of cost, red cedar tends to be more expensive than white cedar.
Pricing/Availability: Due to the limited growing range and relatively small tree size, Atlantic White Cedar is more expensive than most other conifers in the eastern United States. Expect prices to be in the medium to high range for a domestic softwood.
White Cedar 'Brabant'
This coniferous shrub's compact growth habit makes it an ideal cedar for privacy fencing. If colour is what you're after, you'll love Brabant. Their sprays of scale-like leaves grow in a vibrant yellow-green hue that will brighten up your yard in an instant.
Keep Moisture Away From Your Siding. Keeping your cedarwood away from moisture is the key to its longevity. Moisture leads to mold and mildew growing on your cedarwood, and it may not be able to be treated. To prevent this, make sure that you keep your cedarwood away from any moist areas.
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.
Applying a stain not only preserves the color of your cedar fence, but it also provides a protective sealant against water damage. In turn, this waterproof coating protects the wood against mildew and UV damage. It's a win-win situation.
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.
On bare new or restored cedar, apply one coat only of water-repellent preservative (1% or less of wax by volume and content). Allow it to dry for the period of time recommended by the manufacturer. If the wood has been dip treated, a longer drying time may be needed.
White Cedar is a softwood that contains natural oils which protect it from mold, warping, and insects. It also doesn't need any additional chemical treatments.
But if your trees are browning, it could be a sign that your cedars are dying. Pinpointing a single cause can be a challenge. In many cases, however, it is normally the result of a combination of factors like poor soil, environmental stresses, diseases, and insect infections.
#1 Grade Cedar : This is always 2 face graded and has fewer and smaller knots than #2 cedar. Clear Cedar : This is the premium cut from the center (heart) of the tree. It is 99% knot free. The 1% may be one knot about the size of a #2 pencil eraser.