When selecting natural wood for construction, decor, or crafting, understanding the nuances between cedar and cedarwood is crucial—despite their shared name, these terms represent distinct botanical and functional categories.
Botanical Origins and Classification
Cedar refers to trees in the genus Cedrus, native to the Himalayas and Mediterranean, valued for aromatic, durable wood. Cedarwood, however, is a general term for wood harvested from cedar trees—especially species like western red cedar (Thuja plicata) or Atlas cedar—often processed into lumber, shavings, or essential oils, and prized for versatility in craftsmanship and preservation.
Physical and Chemical Properties
True cedar wood features distinctive reddish tones, natural resistance to decay, and a rich aromatic profile due to natural oils. Cedarwood products vary widely; while still durable, treated or engineered cedarwood may lack the intense scent and may be enhanced with finishes. Both possess strong grain patterns, but cedar is denser and more resistant to moisture than many cedarwood variants used in non-outdoor applications.
Common Applications
Cedar is traditionally favored in outdoor construction—such as cedar decking, closets, and roofing—due to its natural insect resistance. Cedarwood excels in indoor uses like furniture, paneling, and aromatherapy, where its scent enhances living spaces. Both are used in crafting musical instruments, but cedarwood is often preferred for its consistent density in precision woodworking.
Sustainability and Sourcing
Cedar harvesting focuses on slow-growing species requiring careful forest management. Cedarwood production increasingly includes sustainably sourced lumber and reclaimed cedar, supporting eco-friendly building practices. Certifications like FSC help verify responsible sourcing for both.
Conclusion
While cedar and cedarwood stem from similar trees, their differences in origin, composition, and use underscore the importance of clarity in material selection. Whether building a weatherproof porch or designing elegant interiors, choosing the right form—cedar for outdoor resilience or cedarwood for refined finishes—ensures durability and aesthetic excellence. Make informed decisions to elevate your space and projects.
Understanding the difference between cedar and cedarwood empowers smarter choices in design and construction. Prioritize the right wood type to unlock both beauty and performance in every application.
What is the primary difference between cedarwood and cedar? Cedarwood refers to an oil extracted from various trees, while "cedar" typically refers to the wood itself from cedar trees. Cedarwood refers to the aromatic wood obtained from cedar trees and is commonly used in woodworking and essential oils, whereas cedar describes the evergreen trees themselves, often prized for their ornamental and timber value. Cedar is a derived term of cedarwood.
As nouns the difference between cedarwood and cedar is that cedarwood is the wood of the cedar tree while cedar is a coniferous tree of the genus Cedrus in the family Pinaceae. As a proper noun Cedar is a programming language. Known for its versatility and appealing scent, cedar wood is a well-known and well-rounded option for woodworking.
Unbeknownst to many, there are a wide variety of cedars available on the market, each with its own strengths for different types of applications. Today let's review the trees in the Cedar family and how they can be used in woodworking. 8 Types of Cedar Wood Though not all, below.
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Cedarwood is a kind of wood that comes from various kinds of trees collectively known as cedars. Cedar trees grow in different parts of the world for their varied purposes. Cedarwood essential oils vary significantly based on their source and properties.
Cedarwood refers to the wood harvested from cedar trees, while cedar describes the trees themselves, known for distinct aromatic characteristics. To some woodworkers, cedar ranks high as the wood of choice for building decks. Others rely on it for lining closets or cigar humidors.
How can one wood be so versatile? It's because multiple varieties exist with different properties and uses. We'll slice through the five most common species so you can choose the cedar that best suits your project.Western Red CedarThis member of the cypress. 5Versatility: Cedar has a wider range of applications, including furniture, construction, and even metaphoric references, while cedarwood is primarily associated with the wood's scent and its use in products like essential oils and perfumes.
Understanding the differences between cedar and redwood can help you make an informed decision when choosing the right wood for your outdoor projects. We will explore the unique qualities of cedar and redwood, along with their respective advantages and disadvantages, to help you determine which wood is the best fit for your specific needs. (5) Asthma due to inhalation of dusts of western red cedar, isocyanates, detergent enzymes and textiles is considered in detail.
(6) With this antiserum in inhibition experiments, cross-reactivity between western red cedar and eastern white cedar, both belonging to the family of arborvitae, was found.