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Put species head to head to decide between them.
Western Red CedarEastern Red Cedar
| Property | Western Red Cedar Thuja plicata | Eastern Red Cedar Juniperus virginiana |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Softwood | Softwood |
| Cost | $$ · Moderate | $$ · Moderate |
| Hardness | 350 lbf | 900 lbf |
| Workability | Good | Good |
| Seasonal movement | Small | Small |
| Outdoor-friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Origin | Domestic (North America) | Domestic (Eastern US) |
| Commonly built | Outdoor planters, Deck furniture, Cedar chests, Fence panels, Sauna benches | Cedar chests, Closet lining, Fence posts, Outdoor furniture |
| Overview | Lightweight, aromatic, and naturally rot-resistant, the go-to for outdoor projects that won't see hard wear. | The aromatic cedar of closets and chests, its scent repels moths, and it's highly rot-resistant. Hard for a softwood, knotty, and beautifully two-toned. |