One of the Easiest Timbers to Work with,
Its straight grain and uniform texture makes Western Red Cedar one of the easiest timbers to work. It planes and sands very clearly; it's easy to saw, machine, nail and it glues well with a range of adhesives.

Good Insulation Properties,
Western Red Cedar heartwood is renowned for its HIGH DECAY RESISTANCE and its good insulation properties, far superior to brick, concrete and steel. Structures built from Western Red Cedar will be cooler in the summer and wamer in the winter. Its very good weathering characteristics makes it POPULAR FOR EXTERIOR APPLICATIONS.

Great Finishing Properties,
The lack of pitch or resinous extractives means it has good finishing properties enabiling it to take a variety of coatings, paints and stains exceptionally well.

Weathered Apperance,
Freshly machined Clear Western Red Cedar seems to vary from a light straw colour to a dark red/brown, but the colour becomes more uniform in natural light. It is much sought after for its "weathered" appearance.

Unlikely to Warp or Twist,
Western Red Cedar has a low wood density and LOW SHRINKAGE FACTOR which means it is unlikely to warp or twist. It also has an ability to dampen vibrations, making it EFFECTIVE IN REDUCING OR CONFINING NOISE and therefore good for panelling and moulding.
IT IS DIMENSIONALLY STABLE AND HOLDS ITS PLACE WELL IN USE.

High Natural Resistance to Decay,
Western Red Cedar is reported to have a very high natural resistance to decay. It should perform well when in contact with the ground. Although the mild UK winters are the exception as they can promote decay. In terms of the durability it is long lasting when properly treated.

Uses: Cladding, Gates and Shingles.

Grades,
James E Smith are able to offer Clear Grade Western Red Cedar which is supplied with a smooth finish and is suitable where a more formal appearance is required. James E Smith can offer a wide variety of patterns for panelling and mouldings or we can custom produce to your requirements.