The question of whether cedar is a softwood or hardwood often confuses people new to woodworking or lumber identification. The answer, simply put, is cedar is a softwood. However, understanding why requires a deeper dive into botanical classifications.
What Defines a Softwood vs. Hardwood?
The terms "softwood" and "hardwood" aren't solely about the actual hardness of the wood. Instead, they're based on the botanical classification of the trees they come from.
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Softwoods: Come from coniferous trees (cone-bearing trees). These trees typically have needles, not broad leaves, and their wood is generally softer, less dense, and easier to work with. Examples include pine, fir, spruce, and – you guessed it – cedar.
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Hardwoods: Come from deciduous trees (trees that shed their leaves annually). These trees usually have broad leaves, and their wood is generally harder, denser, and more complex in grain. Examples include oak, maple, cherry, and mahogany.
Why the Confusion? Some Cedars Feel Harder Than Others
While cedar is botanically a softwood, some cedar species can be surprisingly dense and durable, feeling "harder" than some softwoods like pine. This density variation depends on the specific cedar species and its growing conditions. For example, Western Red Cedar is known for its impressive rot resistance and strength, making it a popular choice for outdoor applications, despite its softwood classification.
What are the Different Types of Cedar?
Several cedar species exist worldwide, each with slightly different properties. Common types include:
- Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata): Known for its durability, rot resistance, and pleasant aroma.
- Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana): A more aromatic cedar often used for chests and closets.
- Incense Cedar (Calocedrus decurrens): Prized for its fragrant scent and used in various applications, including pencils.
- Deodar Cedar (Cedrus deodara): A visually striking cedar with a weeping habit, often used ornamentally.
- Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica): Another ornamental cedar species known for its bluish-green foliage.
These variations in species contribute to the perception of hardness; however, they remain botanically classified as softwoods.
Is Cedar Strong? How Durable Is It?
Cedar's strength and durability vary greatly depending on the species. While generally considered a softer wood, some species, like Western Red Cedar, exhibit remarkable resistance to rot and decay, making them ideal for outdoor projects. However, it's essential to consider the specific species and intended use when selecting cedar lumber.
What are the Uses of Cedar Wood?
Due to its aroma, rot resistance, and workability, cedar finds applications in:
- Construction: Siding, decking, fencing.
- Furniture: Outdoor furniture, chests, closets.
- Crafts: Carving, cabinetry.
- Essential Oils: Aromatic oils extracted from cedar are widely used.
Conclusion: Cedar's Softwood Status Remains
Despite potential confusion caused by variations in density and durability across different species, cedar remains definitively a softwood. Its botanical classification as a coniferous tree dictates this categorization. Understanding this distinction helps in selecting the right type of cedar for specific projects and appreciating its unique characteristics.
