Image: Courtesy WRCLA and Christopher Wright Architecture. Photographer: Anna Spencer.
Cedar is one of the most sought-after wood species for decks, siding, and more. From its warm look to its durability, homeowners are drawn to cedar’s aesthetic and reliability. Yet as with most building materials, some misconceptions persist that could deter your customers.
We checked in with our friends at the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association (WRCLA) to get the lowdown on what myths they hear most often — and why they’re misleading.
1. “Wood Doesn’t Last”
With a plethora of wood-alternative products, some consumers may feel that wood isn’t a viable long-term option for exteriors. In reality, cedar is one of the top most durable wood species, alongside California redwood. In fact, WRCLA hears from customers all the time looking for refinishing options for their decades-old decks. Younger WRC has an equal and greater volume of the extractive elements contained in heartwood of the mature tree. This gives the younger tree the same durability and performance you expect from WRC.
2. “Cedar is high maintenance”
While all wood (and all building products) will require some levels of maintenance, the amount is often exaggerated for marketing purposes. Plus, there are ways to install cedar that can lower maintenance frequency. This includes choosing the right finishes or opting not to finish it at all and letting it age to a natural patina. WRCLA offers instructions on how to finish and install cedar to reduce maintenance needs.
3. “Using cedar destroys our forests”
Actually, independent studies prove that when it comes to environmental performance, natural wood is superior to synthetic products in every way. While other building materials generate greenhouse gasses, Western red cedar actually removes greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere. And unlike brick, cement, and composites, Real Cedar is renewable and biodegradable. Plus, Real Cedar is sourced from the most sustainably managed forests in the world.
4. “Cedar doesn’t have much visual flexibility”
On the contrary, cedar offers immense versatility for a range of styles and applications. Because Western red cedar is pitch and resin-free, it’s ideal for accepting and holding a wide range of beautiful finishes, from elegant dark stains to shabby chic bleaches to traditional solid colors to naturally beautiful semi-transparents. Real Cedar also offers a wide range of lumber dimensions, surface textures, and grades. Ergo, no matter what the desired effect is, Real Cedar’s got the wood for every customer.
Want to learn more about the benefits and opportunities selling cedar for decking, siding, and other applications? Visit WRCLA for a variety of resources and inspiration.
Weyerhaeuser Distribution is committed to delivering the reliable, consistent products you can rely on. Connect with your Weyerhaeuser representative today about cedar solutions available in your market.
