Aromatic Cedar
Aromatic Cedar, scientifically known as Juniperus virginiana, is a type of softwood tree native to North America. It is commonly referred to as Eastern Red Cedar or Virginia Juniper.
Appearance and Characteristics
Aromatic Cedar wood is recognized for its distinctive reddish to purplish-brown color. It features a fine, even grain pattern that can have slight knots and irregularities. The wood emits a fragrant, sweet aroma, especially when freshly cut. Aromatic Cedar is relatively lightweight, typically weighing around 2.8 pounds (1.27 kilograms) per board foot.
Workability
Aromatic Cedar is highly workable and favored by woodworkers. It is easy to cut, shape, and sand, making it suitable for a range of woodworking projects. The wood is known for its natural resistance to decay and insects, which adds to its appeal. It glues and finishes well, allowing for both natural and polished appearances.
Uses in Woodworking
Aromatic Cedar wood is commonly employed in various woodworking applications, including:
-
Cedar Chests and Closets: Aromatic Cedar is frequently used to create chests, closets, and storage solutions. Its natural aroma acts as a natural insect repellent, helping protect clothing and linens.
-
Lining for Drawers and Boxes: The wood is an excellent choice for lining drawers and boxes, providing protection against insects and a pleasant fragrance.
-
Furniture: Aromatic Cedar is sometimes used in crafting furniture pieces such as dressers and cabinets, providing a unique and aromatic touch to the finished product.
-
Decorative and Craft Items: It's used for crafting decorative and craft items like jewelry boxes, trinkets, and small wooden gifts.
-
Paneling and Millwork: Aromatic Cedar is also utilized in interior paneling and millwork projects, adding both visual appeal and a delightful scent to the surroundings.
-
Woodturning: The wood can be turned on a lathe to create various turned items, such as bowls, platters, and spindles.
Durability
Aromatic Cedar wood is known for its natural durability and insect-repellent properties:
-
Indoor Use: Aromatic Cedar is exceptionally well-suited for indoor applications. Its heartwood contains oils and compounds that resist decay and deter moths and other insects. This makes it an ideal choice for lining closets, drawers, and crafting storage solutions, providing long-lasting protection and a pleasant aroma.
-
Outdoor Use: While Aromatic Cedar is not commonly used in outdoor applications due to its susceptibility to moisture and weather, it may be used for short-term or protected outdoor projects.
-
Bug/Insect and Rot Resistance: Aromatic Cedar's heartwood is naturally resistant to insects, including moths and other pests. Additionally, it is known for its resistance to decay, ensuring longevity in applications where these properties are essential.
VARIATIONS AND OPTIONS
All lumber now ships surfaced on 2 sides, and ripped on 1 edge at a minimum. Surfacing is done to a 1/16th over nominal (+- .030). Also the option for a rip to width is now available for a premium price. Ripping is done on an industrial straight line/gang rip machine. While the rip will be consistent end to end, the fence may not always end up in the same spot between orders. Rip widths will be within 1/8th of an inch of stated widths.
4/4 will be surfaced to 13/16ths. 5/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 1/16th. 6/4 6/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 5/16ths. 8/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 13/16ths. 10/4 will be surfaced to 2 and 5/16ths. 16/4 will be surfaced to 2 and 13/16ths.