Cedar wood holds a special place in human history and has been revered for its unique characteristics and versatility. In this article, we will delve into the world of cedar, exploring its origins, uses, and notable features. We’ll also address the difference between true cedar and false cedar, as well as the various applications of cedar in construction, furniture making, and more.
The Distinctive Smell and Symbolism of Cedar
Wood has its own distinctive smell, often only noticeable when burned or cut. However, certain types of wood, like aromatic cedar, stand out due to their strong and unique fragrance. Cedar, mentioned in the Bible, has been historically associated with power and wealth. Notably, King David and King Solomon used cedar to construct palaces and the Temple of Jerusalem. Cedar holds such significance that it remains a symbol of Lebanon, featured prominently on the country’s flag.
Differentiating True Cedar from False Cedar
There are four species of true cedar worldwide, with three found around the Mediterranean region and one in the Himalayas. However, many trees we commonly refer to as cedars are, in fact, false cedars. In North America, the two prevalent false cedars are the Western Red Cedar, a variety of cypress, and the Eastern Red Cedar, also known as aromatic cedar, which is a type of juniper. Despite their classification differences, true cedars and false cedars share similar characteristics, leading to their frequent lumping together.
Notable Characteristics of Cedar Wood
Aromatic Quality: Cedar boasts a pleasant aroma contributed by the natural oils present in the wood. Eastern red cedar, in particular, has the most intense scent, repelling insects. This quality makes it a popular choice for lining closets and hope chests.
Rot and Insect Resistance: Cedar possesses natural properties that make it resistant to rot and insect attacks. As a result, it is commonly used in outdoor furniture, garden boxes, pergolas, decks, fences, and shipbuilding. Additionally, cedar strips are a preferred material for constructing wooden canoes.
Heartwood and Sapwood: While the heartwood of cedar possesses the desirable qualities of rot and insect resistance, the outermost layer, known as sapwood, lacks these attributes. The heartwood appears darker in color, creating a visually appealing contrast with the lighter sapwood.
Lightweight and Soft: Cedar is relatively lightweight, making it easy to work with and transport. Although harder than typical pine, it remains softer than many other woods.
Dimensional Stability: Cedar exhibits excellent dimensional stability, meaning it experiences minimal shrinkage or swelling with changes in humidity or moisture content. When cedar does move, it does so uniformly, making it an ideal choice for boat building and outdoor construction.
Applications of Cedar Wood
Cedar wood finds a wide range of applications due to its exceptional qualities. Some notable uses include:
Outdoor Construction: Cedar’s durability, rot resistance, and insect repellent properties make it ideal for shingles, outdoor furniture, fences, fence posts, and pergolas.
Indoor Use: Cedar’s pleasant fragrance also makes it suitable for indoor applications such as closets, indoor furniture, and even musical instruments. Additionally, cedar has been used for medicinal purposes.
Rich History and Ancient Forests: Western red cedars, which can live for over 1500 years, thrive in the Pacific Northwest. Despite aggressive logging practices, ancient cedars still exist in some old growth forests. These trees witnessed significant historical events, dating back to Charlemagne’s reign.
Considerations and Precautions
While cedar possesses numerous admirable traits, it is essential to keep a few considerations in mind:
- Allergic Reactions: Eastern red cedars can cause allergies or cedar fever in certain regions during winter and early spring. Additionally, working with cedar may cause eye or skin irritation, necessitating the use of proper safety gear like gloves and masks to protect against toxic dust.
In Conclusion
Cedar wood, whether true cedar or false cedar, stands as a remarkable material with exceptional qualities. Its versatility in various applications, from outdoor construction to indoor furniture, showcases its unique characteristics. Despite ongoing concerns surrounding ancient cedar forests, the legacy of this storied wood continues. Whether you love cedar for its scent, durability, or historical significance, it remains a beloved material cherished by artisans and builders alike.
What are your experiences with cedar? Have you worked with cedar before, or do you have any tips to share? Let us know in the comments below. If you found this article helpful, please give it a like and consider subscribing to our channel for more informative content. Until next time!
