While often praised for its natural beauty and aromatic qualities, cedar wood does come with several disadvantages, including varying durability, susceptibility to dents, higher cost, and specific maintenance needs.
Key Disadvantages of Cedar Wood
Cedar, a popular choice for many applications, presents certain drawbacks that are important to consider before its use in projects like decking, siding, or furniture.
Here’s a summary of the main disadvantages:
| Disadvantage Category | Specific Issue | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Reduced Longevity (Hardwood) | Hardwood cedar varieties may not last as long as some other exceptionally dense and resilient hardwood species, potentially offering a shorter lifespan in very demanding applications. |
| Vulnerability | Easily Dented (Softwood) | Certain types of softwood cedar are relatively soft, making them prone to dents and surface damage from impacts or heavy use, which can affect their appearance, especially in high-traffic areas. |
| Cost | Higher Price Point | Cedar is generally more expensive when compared to more common and readily available lumber options like pine, which can significantly impact the budget for larger constructions. |
| Maintenance | Color Fading & Upkeep | Its appealing natural color can fade over time due to chemical reactions caused by UV exposure and weathering, necessitating regular maintenance such as sealing or staining to preserve its aesthetic. |
1. Varying Durability and Vulnerability
Cedar's overall durability is influenced by whether it's classified as a hardwood or softwood variety, each presenting distinct concerns.
- Hardwood Cedar Limitations: While generally robust, hardwood cedars may not last as long as some other hardwood species known for their extreme density and resistance, such as certain exotic hardwoods. This means that for applications requiring the absolute maximum lifespan under harsh conditions, other wood types might be more suitable.
- Softwood Cedar Susceptibility: For softwood cedar, a primary concern is its relative softness. This characteristic means that some types of softwood cedar can become dented easily from impacts, dropped items, or even consistent pressure. This vulnerability can affect the material's aesthetic appeal and integrity, particularly when used for surfaces like decks, floors, or outdoor furniture that experience frequent contact or wear.
2. Higher Cost
The financial outlay is a significant factor when choosing building materials, and cedar often comes with a premium price tag.
- Expensive Compared to Alternatives: Cedar is expensive compared to wood like pine. This higher cost per board foot can accumulate quickly, making it a less budget-friendly option for extensive projects or when cost-effectiveness is a primary concern. The initial investment in cedar lumber is often considerably greater than that for more common and less specialized wood types.
3. Regular Maintenance Requirements
While cedar possesses natural resistance to decay and insects, preserving its aesthetic appeal over time requires ongoing effort.
- Color Fading: Cedar's beautiful natural color, which can range from light amber to rich reddish-brown, is susceptible to change. It requires regular maintenance as the color may fade away due to chemical reaction when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays and the elements. Without periodic sealing, staining, or painting, the wood can weather to a dull silver-gray, losing its original vibrancy. This ongoing maintenance adds to the long-term cost and effort associated with cedar.
For more information on cedar's properties, you can refer to resources like LRJ Lumber's guide on cedar wood.
