When choosing the perfect wood for your next project, you’ve likely wondered: is cedar hard or soft wood? We’re here to clear up this common question that puzzles many woodworkers and homeowners alike.
Cedar falls into the softwood category, but don’t let that classification fool you. Even though being a softwood, cedar offers remarkable durability and natural resistance to rot, decay, and insects—qualities that make it a top choice for outdoor applications. Its distinctive aroma, beautiful coloration, and workability have made it one of the most sought-after woods in both construction and decorative projects.
Understanding Cedar Wood Classification
Cedar belongs to the softwood classification in the botanical industry, though this designation often confuses woodworkers and homeowners. The softwood label doesn’t refer to the actual hardness or density of the wood but indicates that cedar comes from gymnosperm trees (conifers) that reproduce using cones and typically have needle-like foliage. These trees belong to the order Pinales, which includes pines, spruces, and firs.
In contrast, hardwoods come from angiosperm trees, which are flowering plants with enclosed seeds. Oak, maple, and walnut exemplify this category. The distinction between hardwood and softwood originates from botanical reproduction methods rather than the wood’s physical properties. Cedar’s classification as softwood relates to its cellular structure and how the tree reproduces in nature.
Several factors influence cedar’s actual physical hardness, including:
- Species variation: Western Red Cedar measures 350 on the Janka hardness scale, while Eastern Red Cedar ranks higher at 900
- Growth conditions: Trees grown in colder climates typically develop denser, harder wood
- Tree age: Older cedar trees generally produce harder, more durable lumber
- Location within the tree: Heartwood (inner portion) is usually harder than sapwood (outer portion)
Even though its softwood classification, many cedar species demonstrate remarkable durability. Cedar’s natural oils and chemical compounds create resistance to decay and insect damage that exceeds many hardwoods. These properties make cedar an exceptional choice for outdoor applications where exposure to elements demands materials with natural resilience.
Is Cedar a Hardwood or Softwood?
Cedar is definitively classified as a softwood in botanical terms. This classification stems from its origin in gymnosperm trees, specifically conifers, rather than from its physical hardness or durability characteristics.
Botanical Classification of Cedar
Gymnosperms represent the plant group from which cedar trees originate, characterized by their evergreen nature and needle-like foliage. These trees reproduce using cones rather than flowers and typically produce what we categorize as softwoods. In contrast, angiosperms are flowering plants that produce hardwoods, generally featuring broad leaves and often displaying deciduous growth patterns. Cedar’s classification specifically relates to its biological reproduction method rather than its strength or density properties.
Why Cedar Is Technically a Softwood
Eastern and Western Red Cedar varieties qualify as softwoods due to their coniferous tree origins. Though several exceptions exist, including Spanish Cedar and Yellow Cedar, which are technically classified as hardwoods even though carrying the “cedar” name. Softwoods like cedar typically grow more rapidly than hardwoods and exhibit simpler grain patterns, making them easier to work with for construction projects. Cedar’s status as a softwood doesn’t diminish its remarkable durability—its natural oils provide exceptional resistance to decay, rot, and insect damage, making it superior to many hardwoods for outdoor applications. This combination of softwood classification with hardwood-like performance characteristics makes cedar a unique and valuable wood choice for many applications.
Physical Properties of Cedar Wood
Cedar’s classification as a softwood relates to its botanical origin rather than its actual physical properties. As a member of the conifer family (gymnosperms), cedar exhibits distinctive characteristics that make it valuable for various applications even though not being among the hardest woods available.
Cedar’s Density and Hardness Ratings
The Janka hardness rating for cedar varies significantly across different species. Aromatic cedar (commonly eastern red cedar) registers at 900 lbf on the Janka scale, placing it at the higher end of softwood hardness. Western red cedar, though not explicitly listed in standard Janka tables, possesses a bending strength (Modulus of Rupture) of 7,500 psi, categorized as “Very Low” for structural applications. Port Orford cedar measures approximately 3.2 on alternative hardness scales, demonstrating the considerable variation between cedar types. Cedar’s lightweight nature contributes directly to its relatively lower hardness ratings compared to most hardwoods, with species like yellow cedar scoring around 2.6 on certain hardness scales.
Comparing Cedar to Other Woods
Cedar falls significantly below many hardwoods in terms of pure hardness metrics. Oak measures 1,290-1,360 lbf and hickory reaches an impressive 1,820 lbf on the Janka scale, making them substantially harder than any cedar variety. Among softwoods, cedar is generally softer than southern yellow pine (870-1,250 lbf) but comparable to Spanish cedar (600 lbf). The true value of cedar emerges not in its hardness but in its exceptional decay resistance. Western red cedar ranks as “durable to very durable” against rot and insects, outperforming many physically harder woods in outdoor durability. This natural resistance to deterioration explains why cedar remains a premier choice for exterior applications even though its moderate hardness ratings.
| Property | Cedar (Aromatic) | Western Red Cedar | Oak (Red) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Janka Hardness | 900 lbf | Not listed | 1,290 lbf |
| Modulus of Rupture | Not specified | 7,500 psi | 14,300 psi |
| Durability | Moderate-High | Very High | Moderate |
Types of Cedar and Their Hardness Levels
Cedar species vary significantly in their hardness levels even though all being categorized as softwoods. Different cedar types offer unique properties that make them suitable for various applications, with hardness being an important consideration for construction and woodworking projects.
Western Red Cedar
Western Red Cedar features moderate hardness with a Modulus of Rupture (bending strength) of 7,500 lbf/in² (51.7 MPa), classified as “Very Low” strength on industry scales. This cedar type offers exceptional durability against decay while maintaining relatively low mechanical hardness. Its softness makes it easy to work with using basic tools, contributing to its popularity for outdoor construction projects and decorative elements. Cedar’s natural resistance to rot comes from its unique chemical composition rather than physical hardness properties.
Eastern Red Cedar
Eastern Red Cedar ranks higher on the hardness scale than its western counterpart, with a rating of approximately 900 on the Janka hardness scale. This variety shares many properties with aromatic cedar, including similar density characteristics and resistance profiles. Eastern Red Cedar’s increased hardness makes it slightly more challenging to work with but provides enhanced durability for applications requiring more structural integrity. Many woodworkers prize this cedar type for its distinctive reddish heartwood and aromatic properties.
Spanish Cedar
Spanish Cedar registers at approximately 600 on the Janka hardness scale, placing it on the softer end of the cedar spectrum. Lower density contributes to this cedar variety’s reduced hardness compared to other cedar types. Spanish Cedar’s softness makes it particularly valuable for applications requiring easy carving and shaping, such as cigar boxes and musical instruments. Even though its name, this wood isn’t a true cedar but rather belongs to the mahogany family, explaining some of its unique characteristics compared to other cedar varieties.
Cedar’s Durability Despite Being a Softwood
Cedar defies expectations with exceptional durability even though its softwood classification. This remarkable resilience comes from its natural oils and extractives that provide protection far beyond what its Janka hardness ratings might suggest.
Weather Resistance
Cedar’s unique cellular structure creates impressive dimensional stability in changing weather conditions. The wood resists warping, cupping, and twisting when exposed to moisture, making it ideal for outdoor applications. Its natural extractives function as built-in preservatives, minimizing water absorption that typically damages other woods. Cedar maintains its integrity through seasonal changes, with minimal expansion and contraction compared to many hardwoods. UV damage affects cedar less severely than other woods thanks to these same protective compounds.
Pest and Rot Resistance
Cedar contains powerful natural compounds including thujaplicins and thujic acid that actively deter insects and prevent fungal growth. These biological defenses explain why Western Red Cedar earns a “durable to very durable” rating against decay, outperforming many hardwoods with higher Janka ratings. Aromatic Cedar (Eastern Red Cedar) provides excellent protection against moths and other fabric pests, explaining its traditional use in closets and chests. Spanish Cedar, while softer at 600 lbf on the Janka scale, still offers moderate insect resistance that makes it valuable for furniture in humid climates. Cedar’s natural pest resistance eliminates the need for chemical treatments often required by other woods, creating an environmentally friendly building material.
Best Uses for Cedar Wood
Cedar’s unique combination of durability, decay resistance, and aesthetic appeal makes it versatile for many applications even though its softwood classification. Its natural properties create excellent value in both exterior and interior settings.
Outdoor Applications
Cedar excels in outdoor environments where its natural resistance to decay becomes most valuable. Decking and fencing projects benefit tremendously from cedar’s durability and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions without extensive treatment. Cedar outdoor furniture maintains its structural integrity through seasonal changes thanks to its minimal warping and twisting when exposed to moisture. Many homeowners choose cedar for pergolas, gazebos, and garden structures because of its pleasant appearance that weathers to an attractive silver-gray patina over time. The wood’s natural oils and extractives provide built-in protection against insects and fungal growth, eliminating the need for chemical preservatives in many outdoor installations.
Indoor Applications
Cedar brings warmth and character to interior spaces while offering practical benefits. Paneling and trim made from cedar create distinctive wall treatments with the added bonus of the wood’s aromatic properties that can last for years. Closets and storage chests lined with aromatic cedar naturally repel moths and other fabric pests, protecting valuable clothing and linens. Cedar’s relatively light weight combined with its strength makes it excellent for cabinetry construction, particularly in areas where moisture resistance matters. The wood’s distinctive grain patterns and rich coloration enhance furniture pieces with natural beauty that requires minimal finishing to showcase its character. Many homeowners incorporate cedar in bathroom applications where its natural resistance to humidity prevents common moisture-related problems.
Conclusion
Cedar wood defies simple categorization. While botanically classified as a softwood due to its conifer origin it often outperforms many hardwoods in durability and resilience.
We’ve seen that cedar’s natural oils and unique chemical composition provide exceptional resistance to decay insects and weather without requiring chemical treatments. Different cedar species offer varying hardness levels with Eastern Red Cedar ranking higher on the Janka scale than Western Red Cedar.
Whether you’re building outdoor structures or creating indoor storage answers cedar delivers an ideal balance of workability aesthetic appeal and longevity. It’s this remarkable combination of qualities that makes cedar a premier choice for countless applications even though its technical classification as a softwood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cedar classified as a hardwood or softwood?
Cedar is classified as a softwood, but this is based on its botanical classification rather than its physical properties. The term “softwood” indicates that cedar comes from gymnosperm trees (conifers) that reproduce using cones. This classification has nothing to do with the actual hardness or durability of the wood.
How hard is cedar compared to other woods?
Cedar’s hardness varies by species. Eastern Red Cedar ranks around 900 on the Janka hardness scale, while Western Red Cedar is lower at approximately 350. For comparison, oak measures between 1,290-1,360 and hickory reaches 1,820. While cedar is less hard than many hardwoods, its value lies in other properties rather than pure hardness.
What makes cedar durable despite being a softwood?
Cedar’s exceptional durability comes from its natural oils and chemical compounds like thujaplicins and thujic acid. These substances provide remarkable resistance to rot, decay, and insects. Cedar’s unique cellular structure also minimizes warping and twisting when exposed to moisture, making it outlast many harder woods in outdoor applications.
Are all types of cedar equally hard?
No, cedar species vary significantly in hardness. Western Red Cedar has moderate hardness with a bending strength of 7,500 lbf/in². Eastern Red Cedar is harder with a Janka rating of approximately 900. Spanish Cedar (which isn’t a true cedar) is softer at around 600 on the Janka scale but offers other valuable properties.
Is Spanish Cedar actually cedar?
Despite its name, Spanish Cedar isn’t a true cedar. It belongs to the mahogany family (Meliaceae) rather than the cedar family. It’s valued for its ease of carving and shaping, particularly in applications like cigar boxes and musical instruments, and offers moderate insect resistance.
What are the best outdoor uses for cedar?
Cedar excels in outdoor applications such as decking, fencing, siding, and outdoor furniture. Its natural resistance to moisture, decay, and insects makes it ideal for these purposes. Cedar weathers beautifully over time and requires minimal maintenance, with its natural oils providing built-in protection against the elements.
Can cedar be used for indoor projects?
Yes, cedar is excellent for indoor applications. It’s commonly used for closet linings, chests, paneling, and cabinetry. Its aromatic properties help repel clothing pests like moths, making it ideal for storage solutions. Cedar also adds warmth and character to interior spaces while offering practical benefits like moisture resistance.
Does cedar require special treatments for outdoor use?
Unlike many woods, cedar doesn’t require chemical treatments for outdoor use. Its natural oils and extractives already provide excellent protection against decay, insects, and moisture. While applying a sealer can help maintain its color, untreated cedar will naturally weather to a silver-gray patina that many find attractive.