Red Cedar is one of the most prized timbers in Australia, known for its rich color, aromatic scent, and versatile application in both fine furniture and outdoor projects. With its excellent durability, ease of workability, and striking visual appeal, Red Cedar is a highly sought-after wood for all kinds of custom creations. Here’s everything you need to know when considering this wood for your next project.

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Why Choose Red Cedar?

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Red Cedar is an excellent choice if you're looking for:

• Rich Color and Aroma: Its deep reddish-brown tones and aromatic scent make it a standout choice for any project.

• Durability and Versatility: With natural resistance to decay and insects, Red Cedar is suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects.

• Ease of Workability: Its fine texture makes it ideal for detailed woodworking, carvings, and intricate designs.

• Eco-Conscious Option: When sourced responsibly, Red Cedar is a sustainable option that supports eco-friendly practices.

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Appearance

• Color: Red Cedar is renowned for its rich reddish-brown color, with darker streaks often running through the grain. Over time, it darkens further, creating an elegant, deep hue that complements a wide range of interior styles.

• Grain: The grain of Red Cedar is typically straight but can also be interlocked, giving the wood an appealing, uniform texture. Its grain pattern is fine and even, adding visual warmth to any project.

• Finish: Red Cedar has a natural luster that enhances its beauty, making it easy to polish to a high sheen. The fine texture also makes it ideal for achieving a smooth, even finish with minimal effort.

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Properties

• Durability: Red Cedar is highly durable, naturally resistant to decay, insects, and moisture, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. It has a high resistance to the elements, making it a great choice for external furniture, decking, and cladding.

• Strength: Although relatively lightweight, Red Cedar is strong and stable. It has a low to medium Janka hardness rating, meaning it’s softer than some other hardwoods but still very sturdy for most applications.

• Workability: Red Cedar is a dream to work with. It is easy to cut, carve, and shape, and it holds nails and screws well. The wood’s soft texture ensures that it doesn’t cause excessive tool wear, making it perfect for intricate designs and detailed carvings. However, because of its softness, care should be taken to avoid dents or scratches.

• Aroma: One of the defining features of Red Cedar is its aromatic scent. Its fragrance is soothing and adds a unique characteristic to any piece. The scent is often used in wardrobes and chests to repel insects, adding a functional element to its natural appeal.

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Care and Maintenance

• Cleaning: Red Cedar is low-maintenance when it comes to cleaning. Use a soft cloth to wipe down surfaces, and avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the wood.

• Protection: Though durable, Red Cedar benefits from protection against scratches, moisture, and direct sunlight. Consider using coasters, placemats, and furniture covers to preserve its appearance.

• Re-finishing: Red Cedar can be re-oiled or varnished every few years to keep its rich color and to maintain its smooth texture.