Cedar is botanically classified as a softwood, a classification that often creates confusion because the word “soft” suggests a lack of strength or durability. The simple answer is yes, cedar is a softwood, but this label does not reflect its many beneficial characteristics. Understanding cedar requires grasping the scientific basis for wood categorization, which reveals why cedar remains a highly valued and durable material for various applications.
The Botanical Distinction Between Softwood and Hardwood
Wood classification is based on the reproductive structure of the tree, not the physical density or hardness of the lumber.
Softwoods are derived from gymnosperms, which are typically cone-bearing trees that retain their needles year-round. These woods, like pine, fir, and spruce, possess a simpler cellular structure composed mostly of tracheids.
Hardwoods, in contrast, come from angiosperms, which are flowering or deciduous trees that generally shed their leaves seasonally. Hardwoods, such as oak, maple, and cherry, have a more complex structure that includes vessel elements for water transport. The physical properties are not the determining factor in this system.
Cedar’s Classification and Physical Properties
Cedar is definitively a softwood because all species belong to the coniferous gymnosperm group of trees. This botanical classification is constant, regardless of the species-specific differences in density or color. For example, Western Red Cedar is an extremely light wood, enhancing its insulation value.
The exceptional utility of cedar comes from its unique extractives, which are chemical compounds stored in the wood’s heartwood. These natural oils, which include thujaplicins and plicatic acid, repel insects and inhibit the growth of decay-causing fungi. This inherent resistance grants cedar a natural durability that surpasses many woods, including several hardwoods, without requiring chemical treatment.
Cedar typically exhibits a fine, straight grain, which contributes to its dimensional stability. This low shrinkage factor means the wood resists warping, twisting, and checking even when exposed to significant moisture fluctuations. The aromatic quality, often described as spicy or sweet, is a direct result of these volatile organic compounds.
Common Uses for Cedar Wood
The wood’s natural resistance to decay and moisture makes it a reliable choice for exterior construction projects. Cedar is widely used for decking, fencing, and siding, where it performs well against weather exposure and ground contact. Its superior dimensional stability ensures that these outdoor structures maintain their form over time.
Cedar’s lightweight nature and resistance to splitting make it suitable for manufacturing roofing shingles and shakes. This low density also contributes to good thermal insulation, a property that helps regulate temperatures within a structure.
The distinct aromatic scent guides its application in interior finishing, particularly for storage solutions. Lining closets, chests, and drawers with cedar capitalizes on the natural oils that repel clothes moths and other pests. This indoor use protects stored fabrics while lending a pleasant, clean fragrance to the space.