Discover top red cedar timber options ideal for outdoor builds, crafts, and structural accents. This guide highlights five suitable products, explains who each is best for, and why they were selected. Ideal buyers include hobby woodworkers, landscapers, and contractors seeking durable, aromatic cedar for projects like fencing, trim, brackets, or cutting boards. Use the buying guide to compare features, sizes, and practical considerations before purchasing.
| Product | Best For | Why It’s a Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Woodchucks Wood 3/4 Inch x 2 Inch x 16 Inch Solid Red Aromatic Cedar Lumber (10 Pack) | Cutting boards, crafts, small projects | Kiln-dried red cedar boards, compact 16″ length, 2″ width, 3/4″ thickness; sold as a 10-pack for multiple pieces. |
| Starwest Botanicals Cedar Tips Western Red WC | Decorative cedar accents, aromatic applications | Western red cedar tips; compact, aromatic material for crafts or flavor in projects requiring cedar fragrance. |
| Ekena Millwork 36″W x 9″H x 2″D x 4″F, Western Red Cedar Bracket | Gable brackets, architectural accents | Large Cedar timber bracket with authentic craftsmanship; 36″W, 9″H, 2″D; good for exterior framing details. |
| Ekena Millwork 36″W x 9″H x 1 1/2″D x 5 1/2″F, Western Red Cedar Bracket | Decorative brackets, lighter exterior accents | Balanced dimensions and 6/12 pitch; Western Red Cedar with clear craftsmanship. |
| Ekena Millwork 36″W x 19″H x 1 1/2″D x 5 1/2″F, Western Red Cedar Bracket | Large decorative brackets, porch or facade details | Tall 19″ height; 13/12 pitch; Western Red Cedar for prominent architectural features. |
Note: All items are described by their listed features. Consider project scale, environmental exposure, and installation requirements when selecting a cedar timber product. The following sections provide detailed product insights and buying considerations to help you decide.
Woodchucks Wood 3/4 Inch Cedar Lumber Pack
Product overview: 3/4 inch thick, 2 inches wide, 16 inches long, kiln-dried red cedar boards. The pack includes 10 pieces, suitable for compact carpentry projects or small cutting board assemblies. Best for hobbyists who need multiple uniform pieces and value kiln-dried stability.
Who it’s best for and why: Ideal for DIYers building small projects, cutting boards, or decorative accents. The uniform dimensions simplify layout and finishing. This option is best for buyers seeking a cost-effective, multi-piece cedar set with consistent sizing.
Limitations: While suitable for cutting boards and crafts, the 16″ length may be restrictive for larger builds without joins or additional material. Ensure your plan aligns with the piece size and quantity.
Starwest Botanicals Cedar Tips Western Red WC
Product overview: Cedar tips in Western Red Cedar. Lightweight and aromatic, suitable for craft projects, scenting spaces, or accent details in woodwork. Best for decorative uses where cedar aroma and visual appeal are desired.
Who it’s best for and why: Choose this for scent and decorative resin-like cedar elements to add natural aroma to home projects or small furniture accents. It’s better for projects prioritizing aroma and appearance over structural weight.
Limitations: Not designed for structural framing or load-bearing uses. Material quantity and dimensions may be better suited for crafts than full-scale construction.
Ekena Millwork 36W x 9H x 2D Western Red Cedar Bracket
Product overview: 36 inches wide, 9 inches high, 2 inches deep; includes a 4″ face/breadth with a 6/12 pitch. Crafted from Western Red Cedar with authentic detailing. Designed for exterior or interior architectural applications.
Who it’s best for and why: Best for builders or designers needing large decorative brackets to support or embellish eaves, porches, or trellises. The size and cedar type deliver a strong visual and durable exterior performance.
Caution: Large brackets require secure mounting and compatible framing to prevent stress or warping in exposed environments.
Ekena Millwork 36W x 9H x 1 1/2D Portland Cedar Bracket
Product overview: 36 inches wide, 9 inches high, 1.5 inches deep with a 6/12 pitch. Western Red Cedar with Portland smooth finish and authentic craftsmanship. Suitable for decorative support in outdoor structures or architectural accents.
Who it’s best for and why: Choose this for lighter exterior accents or interior features where a balanced look is desired without heavy structural load. Cedar provides natural resistance to decay and a pleasant aroma.
Limitation: The thinner depth may limit load-bearing capacity; plan for non-structural use or add appropriate support where necessary.
Ekena Millwork 36W x 19H x 1 1/2D Portland Cedar Bracket
Product overview: Taller bracket at 19 inches high, with 1.5 inches depth and 3/2 inch face/breadth; 13/12 pitch. Western Red Cedar with Portland smooth finish and craftsmanship emphasis. Suitable for prominent architectural details.
Who it’s best for and why: Best for high-visibility exterior accents or porch detailing where a tall, decorative support is desired. Rich cedar aesthetics complement classic or Craftsman-style architecture.
Limitation: Higher profile may require more clearance; verify mounting space and hardware compatibility with your structure.
Ekena Millwork 36W x 10H x 1 1/2D Portland Cedar Bracket
Product overview: Width 36 inches, height 10 inches, depth 1.5 inches with a 7/12 pitch. Western Red Cedar with Portland smooth finish. Emphasizes authentic craftsmanship and North American cedar sourcing.
Who it’s best for and why: Suitable for medium-height decorative brackets on porches or garden structures. The 10″ height provides a balanced proportion for varied architectural styles.
Limitation: Ensure proper framing and weather protection to maximize cedar’s longevity in outdoor settings.
Buying Guide
What should I consider before buying red cedar timber?
Purpose: Identify whether you need timber for structural framing, decorative accents, or aromatic crafts. Cedar’s natural rot resistance and aroma vary by product type and cut.
Size and dimensions: Compare thickness, width, and length to fit your project plans. For brackets, verify pitch and overall footprint to ensure compatibility with framing.
Which cedar product is best for outdoor use?
Choose products labeled Western Red Cedar or solid cedar; they typically offer greater durability in outdoor environments. Brackets with larger profiles are better for load-bearing or prominent exterior displays.
What about installation considerations?
Check mounting hardware requirements and weatherproofing needs. Brackets may require external coatings or sealants to extend life in harsh climates.
How to evaluate aroma, aesthetics, and finish?
Aromatic cedar adds scent and visual warmth. Consider how the finish interacts with cedar color in your space and whether you want a maintained or weathered look over time.
Maintenance tips
Seal or treat cedar surfaces where exposure is high. Regular inspections for signs of wear or moisture intrusion help preserve appearance and function.
Summary of key product considerations
- Size compatibility: confirm piece dimensions match project plans.
- Intended use: structural vs. decorative vs. aromatic applications.
- Durability: Western Red Cedar offers durable exterior performance.
- Finish and maintenance: plan for sealing or painting as needed.
FAQ
- Q: Are these cedar products suitable for cutting boards? A: The Woodchucks Wood pack specifically targets cutting-board sized dimensions; other cedar products are better suited for decorative or structural roles.
- Q: Is Western Red Cedar different from red cedar used for crafts? A: Yes, Western Red Cedar is known for outdoor resilience and aroma, often preferred for exterior accents and brackets.
- Q: Do cedar brackets require painting or staining? A: Finishing is optional but often recommended for weather protection and color consistency.
- Q: How do I choose the right bracket size? A: Match width and height to the architectural scale and the load or decorative emphasis you want to achieve.
- Q: Can I use cedar for interior furniture projects? A: Yes, especially for decorative elements or light-use pieces; consider your finish and moisture exposure.