13 Creative Uses For Cedar Wood

Cedar wood is a remarkable and versatile material, prized for both its beauty and durability. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a nature lover, you'll be amazed at the numerous creative uses for cedar wood. From aromatherapy to outdoor furniture, cedar wood is perfect for a range of projects that showcase the wood's unique qualities. So, if you're looking for inspiration for your next DIY project, or you simply want to learn more about this extraordinary wood, read on for 13 creative uses for cedar wood that will inspire and excite you!

Outdoor decks and patios

Cedar wood is a popular choice when it comes to outdoor decks and patios. Not only is it a beautiful wood that adds warmth and character to your outdoor living space, but it also has natural properties that make it resistant to decay and insect infestation. If you are looking for ways to incorporate cedar wood into your outdoor living area, here are some ideas to consider.

Cedar decking

Cedar decking is a classic choice for outdoor spaces. Cedar is a durable and stable wood that can withstand the elements. It also has a natural resistance to decay and rot, making it low-maintenance. Cedar decking can be stained or left natural, depending on the look you want to achieve. It is also slip-resistant, which is a safety feature that is especially important if you have children or elderly relatives that will be using the space.

Cedar pergolas

A cedar pergola is a beautiful addition to an outdoor patio or deck area. It provides a shaded area for outdoor dining or relaxing and also adds architectural interest to your outdoor space. Cedar pergolas can be custom-built to fit your specific needs and can be left natural or stained to match your decking or other outdoor furnishings.

Cedar planter boxes

Cedar planter boxes are a great way to add some greenery to your outdoor space. Cedar wood is naturally resistant to rot, making it an excellent choice for outdoor planters. Cedar planter boxes can be built in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit your specific needs. They are also easy to maintain - simply wipe them down with a damp cloth or rinse with a hose.

Cedar benches

Cedar benches are a great way to add some seating to your outdoor space. They can be built in a variety of lengths and styles to match your decking or other outdoor furnishings. Cedar benches are also low-maintenance and can be left natural or stained to match your existing décor.

Cedar fencing

Cedar fencing is a popular choice for outdoor spaces because it is durable and has a natural resistance to decay. Cedar fencing can be built in a variety of styles to match your specific needs, from picket fences to privacy fences. Cedar fencing can also be stained or left natural, depending on the look you want to achieve.

In conclusion, cedar wood is an excellent choice when it comes to outdoor decks and patios. Whether you are building a new deck or revamping an existing space, incorporating cedar wood into your outdoor living area will add warmth, character and natural beauty to your home.

Saunas

Cedar wood is an excellent choice of wood for building saunas due to its natural beauty, durability, and the specific benefits it brings to the overall sauna experience. Cedar releases a calming and soothing scent when heated, contributing to a more relaxing and enjoyable sauna session. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using cedar wood to build saunas and highlight some of the things you can do with cedar wood in your sauna.

The first thing to consider is the type of cedar wood to use in your sauna. There are two species of cedar commonly used in sauna construction: Western Red Cedar and Eastern White Cedar. Western Red Cedar is the most popular choice and is widely available; it has a warm reddish-brown hue and a distinctive fragrance. Eastern White Cedar, on the other hand, has a lighter color and a softer, more subtle aroma.

When using cedar wood to build a sauna, one of the advantages is its natural resistance to moisture and decay. Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and decay, making it an excellent option for use in high-moisture environments such as saunas. Additionally, cedar wood has excellent insulating properties, which helps to maintain heat and create a comfortable sauna environment.

One of the most significant benefits of using cedar wood in your sauna is its ability to contribute to relaxation and reduce stress. The scent of cedar has a calming effect on the mind and body and can help reduce stress levels. The heat from the sauna helps to open up pores and promotes sweating, which is an effective way to rid the body of toxins and impurities. The combination of the cedar scent and the heat from the sauna creates a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

There are several things you can do with cedar wood in your sauna to enhance the experience. Firstly, consider installing cedar benches to sit on. Cedar benches not only look beautiful but also provide a comfortable space to recline on during your sauna session. Another option is to install cedar wall panels. Cedar wall panels can add a warm and inviting feel to your sauna while providing additional insulation to keep the heat inside.

Finally, consider adding cedar wood to the sauna's aromatherapy bucket. An aromatherapy bucket is a container used to hold water, which is heated and mixed with essential oils to create a fragrant steam. Cedar essential oil can be added to the water for a soothing and relaxing scent.

In conclusion, using cedar wood to build saunas offers numerous benefits, from its natural beauty to its durable and moisture-resistant properties. It can also contribute to overall relaxation and stress reduction, making it an ideal addition to any sauna. Whether you decide to install cedar benches, wall panels, or add it to your aromatherapy bucket, the many things you can do with cedar wood make it a worthwhile investment for your sauna.

Closets and wardrobes

Cedar wood is known for its pleasant aroma, durability, and resistance to insects and decay. These attributes make cedar wood an excellent choice for use in closets and wardrobes, where it can protect clothing and other stored items from damage and keep them smelling fresh.

Here are some things you can do with cedar wood to enhance your closets and wardrobes:

• Install cedar shelving: Cedar shelves not only provide ample storage space but also add a natural touch to your closet. Besides, the cedar's natural scent will permeate your clothes, linens, and other items on the shelves, keeping them smelling good, and protecting them from moths, silverfish, and other insects.
• Line the closet walls with cedar planks: You can line your closet walls with cedar planks to create an attractive and practical space for storing clothing, shoes, and accessories. This lining will also protect your clothes and linens from moisture and insects.
• Hang cedar blocks or sachets: Cedar blocks or sachets are affordable and easy to use. They come in different shapes and sizes, and you can place them in various places in your closet, such as shoe racks, drawers, or hangers. Cedar blocks work by emitting a fragrance that repels moths and other insects, therefore, safeguarding your clothes.
• Make use of cedar hangers: Cedar wood hangers are sturdy and can add to the aesthetics of your closet. These hangers help maintain the shape of your clothes, especially suits, jackets, and pants, and also absorb moisture and odors, which can cause the clothes to develop stains or smell bad.
• Customize your closet with cedar finishing: If you're looking for something more personalized, you can also consider finishing your closet or wardrobe with cedar wood. You can choose to add cedar wood panels to the back of your closet doors, or even make your own cedar wood closet organizers that fit your specific needs.

All in all, cedar wood is an excellent addition to any closet or wardrobe. Whether you want to protect your clothes from insects, keep your closet fresh, or just want something aesthetically attractive, cedar wood has you covered. Try incorporating some of these tips to enhance your closet space today.

Cedar chests

Cedar wood is a popular choice for furniture and household items, thanks to its natural resistance to insects and decay. One item that has become synonymous with cedar wood is the classic cedar chest. These chests have been used for centuries to store clothing, blankets, and other keepsakes, and are treasured for their beauty, durability, and fragrance. Here are some things to know about cedar chests and how to incorporate them into your home decor.

First and foremost, cedar chests come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and finishes. Some have ornate carvings and detailing, while others are more streamlined and modern. Some are large enough to serve as coffee tables or seating, while others are small enough to tuck away in a corner. When shopping for a cedar chest, consider the style and size that will work best for your space and storage needs.

One of the benefits of cedar chests is that they help to protect clothing and linens from moths and other insects. The natural oils in cedar wood act as a repellent, so you can store items without having to use chemical insecticides. This makes cedar chests ideal for storing seasonal clothing, vintage clothing, and family heirlooms that you want to preserve for future generations.

Another advantage of cedar chests is that they bring a touch of warmth and elegance to any room. Whether you use them as storage or display pieces, cedar chests add a sense of history and authenticity to your decor. You can use them as accent pieces in your living room, bedroom, or hallway, and they can serve as a conversation starter when guests come over.

When it comes to caring for cedar chests, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near sources of heat, as this can cause the wood to dry out and crack. You should also avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives on the wood, as this can damage the finish and the natural oils in the wood. Instead, use a gentle soap and water solution to clean the chest, and periodically oil the wood to prevent it from drying out.

In conclusion, cedar chests are a beautiful and practical addition to any home. Whether you use them for storage or as display pieces, they add warmth, elegance, and functionality to your decor. By following a few simple care tips, you can enjoy your cedar chest for many years to come.

Cedar-lined drawers

Cedar wood is a popular and versatile material that has many applications, including furniture, siding, and decking. It is also known for its natural aroma, which makes it an excellent choice for lining drawers and wardrobes. Here are some things you can do with cedar wood, specifically how to make cedar-lined drawers.

The first step in making cedar-lined drawers is to gather the necessary materials. You will need:

• Cedar tongue and groove boards
• Saw and wood glue
• Sandpaper and a rag
• Drawer liner adhesive

Once you have your materials, you can begin the cedar lining process. Here's how to do it:

• Measure the inside dimensions of your drawer, and cut your cedar boards to the appropriate length.
• Set up your saw to make a 45-degree angle cut on the end of each board, which is known as a miter.
• Apply glue to the mitered edges of the cedar boards and fit them together to create a tight joint. Repeat this process until you have lined all four sides of the drawer with cedar boards.
• Use sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots on the cedar boards. Make sure to remove any excess sawdust.
• Wipe down the cedar-lined drawer with a damp rag to remove any remaining sawdust.
• Apply adhesive to the back of the cedar drawer liner and press it firmly into place. Make sure to smooth it out to remove any air bubbles.
• Allow the adhesive to dry completely. Your cedar-lined drawer is now ready to use.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a way to freshen up your clothes and protect them from insects, consider making cedar-lined drawers. While the process may take a little time and effort, the results are well worth it. Plus, with proper care, your cedar-lined drawers can last for years and continue to provide you with the many benefits of cedar wood.

Greenhouses

Cedar wood is an excellent option for building a greenhouse due to its natural resistance to decay and rot. The wood's aromatic oils give it a pleasant scent, and its natural beauty makes it a popular choice for homeowners and gardeners alike.

If you are thinking of building a greenhouse using cedar wood, here are some things that you should consider:

• Choose the right grade of cedar wood – There are many grades of cedar wood available, but it is essential to choose the right one for your project. The best grade would be clear or STK (select tight knot), which means that the wood is free from knots and blemishes.
• Design your greenhouse – Consider the size and location of your greenhouse. Make sure you have ample space to accommodate the plants that you are planning to grow.
• Build the frame – Cedar wood frames are relatively easy to construct. Make sure you use stainless steel or galvanized screws to prevent rusting. Consider using tongue and groove boards to make your construction more efficient.
• Add polycarbonate panels – Polycarbonate panels are the best option for a greenhouse because they are durable and allow maximum light to enter. They come in different colors and thicknesses, so choose the ones that suit your needs.
• Choose appropriate hardware – Make sure you choose appropriate hardware to assemble all the parts. Use galvanized or stainless steel screws and nails to avoid rusting.

Cedar wood greenhouses are durable and require minimal maintenance. They can withstand harsh weather conditions, and their natural beauty will enhance your garden's visual appeal. You can also add shelves and benches made of cedar to your greenhouse to provide ample space for your plants. Choose cedar wood for your next greenhouse project, and you won't regret it!

Fence and gate construction

Cedar wood is an incredibly popular choice for a variety of outdoor projects due to its natural durability and resistance to decay. One popular use for cedar wood is in fence and gate construction, as it can withstand the harsh weather conditions of outdoor environments while also adding a touch of beauty to your landscape. In this article, we will talk about the things you can do with cedar wood in fence and gate construction.

Choosing the Right Cedar Wood

The first step in creating a fence or gate is to select the right type of cedar wood. Western red cedar is one of the most preferred varieties for fencing and gate since it is decay-resistant and termite-resistant. Eastern red cedar is another option that is affordable and offers durability. Apart from the variety, you should choose the cedar which has straight and free from knots.

Design and Style

Cedar wood fencing and gates offer a great deal of customization as you can choose from a wide range of styles that fit your needs and preferences. Simple picket fences, split rail fences, and dog-eared fences are common styles that can be made using cedar wood. You can also create a more elaborate design that incorporates lattice panels, post caps, and ornamental features. Choose the design style based on your property size, location, and the amount of privacy you want.

Installing Fence Posts

The most crucial component of fence and gate construction is the post. Cedar wooden posts are simple to install and can be placed in the ground to span the length of the fence. You should bury the posts at least 2ft into the ground and ensure that they are level and sturdy. A good rule of thumb is using 4x4 or 6x6 cedar wood posts, which will provide better support to the length of the fence.

Fastening the Cedar Boards

Once the posts are installed, you can fasten the cedar boards. Cedar wood is lightweight, flexible, and easy to work with, making it perfect for outdoor projects like fences and gates. Cedar boards can be attached by nailing or screwing them onto the posts, depending on your preference. However, using waterproof glue along with fasteners will prevent the boards from warping or twisting due to weather changes.

Finishing Touches

To make your cedar wood fence or gate durable, long-lasting, and resistant to weather, you must apply a sealant on the completed product. You can choose a varnish that enhances the wood's natural color and protects it from decay, rot, or insects. It's essential to maintain the fence by cleaning it often and reapplying sealant every few years to prevent weathering.

In conclusion, cedar wood fencing or gate is a smart solution as they add curb appeal to your property, and they last a lifetime. They're versatile, durable, and they offer many customization options that fit your style, budget, and property size. By following the above tips, you can create a fence or gate that satisfies both functional and aesthetic purposes in your outdoor living space.

Outdoor furniture

Cedar wood is a popular choice for outdoor furniture due to its durability and resistance to rot and insect damage. If you’re looking for things to do with cedar wood, building outdoor furniture is a great option. Here are some ideas for outdoor furniture projects you can make with cedar wood.

Adirondack Chair

The Adirondack chair is a classic outdoor furniture design that’s perfect for relaxing on the patio or in the garden. Made with sturdy cedar wood and featuring wide armrests and a high back, these chairs are comfortable and durable. With a little woodworking know-how, you can create your own Adirondack chairs to enjoy in your outdoor space.

Porch Swing

There’s nothing quite as relaxing as swinging on a porch swing and enjoying the outdoors. A cedar wood porch swing is a great addition to any porch or patio. You can build one from scratch or purchase a kit that includes all the materials and hardware you need.

Picnic Table

A cedar wood picnic table is a great addition to any backyard. It’s perfect for outdoor barbecues, family gatherings, and entertaining. You can build a simple picnic table from a few pieces of cedar wood, or create a more elaborate design with benches and an umbrella holder.

Planters

Cedar wood planters are a great way to add some greenery to your outdoor space. Whether you want to plant flowers, herbs, or vegetables, you can create beautiful planters that will last for years. You can build them in various sizes and shapes to fit your plants and space.

Pergola

A cedar wood pergola is an excellent addition to any backyard or garden. It provides shade and creates an outdoor “room” where you can relax, dine, or entertain. You can build a simple pergola with a few wooden posts and crossbeams, or create a more elaborate design with intricate lattice work and climbing vines.

In conclusion, cedar wood is a versatile and durable material that is perfect for creating outdoor furniture. Whether you’re looking to build a classic Adirondack chair, a porch swing, a picnic table, planters, or even a pergola, cedar wood is an excellent choice. With some basic woodworking skills and a little creativity, you can create beautiful and functional pieces for your outdoor space that will last for years to come.

Shingle roofing

Cedar wood is a popular choice for roofing shingles due to its natural durability, resistance to decay and insect damage, and its unique aesthetic appeal. Here are some of the things you need to know about using cedar wood shingles for your roofing and how to make the most out of its benefits.

Cedar wood shingles are thin pieces of natural wood cut into a tapered shape, used as roofing material. These shingles are made from Western Red Cedar, Eastern White Cedar, or Alaskan Yellow Cedar. They offer unique texture, color, and design options for homeowners looking to add a rustic charm to their properties.

Cedar shingles have numerous benefits that make them stand out as a roofing material. They are naturally resistant to decay, insect damage, and moisture, which makes them last longer than traditional roofing options. Cedar shingles also offer excellent insulation properties and can help to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home throughout the year.

Cedar shingles are eco-friendly, sustainable, and a renewable resource. When harvested and processed sustainably, cedar can be used for years without depleting the source. It also reduces the need for synthetic roofing materials that are not environmentally friendly.

Things to do with cedar shingles

Cedar shingles offer many options for homeowners looking to enhance the exterior of their homes. You can use these shingles for roofing, siding, or as decorative accents to add beauty and value to your property. Here are some ways to use cedar shingles:

• Roofing - Cedar shingles are commonly used as roofing material because they are durable and offer excellent insulation and protection against harsh weather conditions. Cedar shingles can be installed in various designs, including the traditional diamond or fish scale patterns.
• Siding - Cedar shingles can be used as siding to add an attractive natural texture to your home's exterior. Cedar shingles for siding can be installed using various styles, including shiplap and board-and-batten.
• Decorative Accents - Cedar shingles can be used as decorative accents to enhance the architectural design of your home. These shingles can be used to create distinct features such as gables, eaves, cornices, and more.

Cedar wood shingles offer numerous benefits for homeowners looking to enhance the curb appeal of their properties. With its natural durability, resistance to decay and insect damage, and unique aesthetic appeal, cedar shingles are an excellent choice for roofing, siding, and decorative accents. Whether you are looking to install a new roof or add decorative elements to your home's exterior, cedar shingles are a sustainable and eco-friendly option that will last for years to come.

Porch ceilings and eaves

If you are looking for a durable and attractive wood to use for your porch ceilings and eaves, cedar is an excellent option. Cedar is known for its natural resistance to insects, decay, and rot, which makes it ideal for outdoor use. Here are some things you can do with cedar wood to enhance your porch ceilings and eaves:

• Install Cedar Tongue and Groove Panels: Cedar tongue and groove panels are designed to fit together seamlessly, creating a smooth and attractive surface for your porch ceiling or eave. You can choose from a range of styles and finishes to suit your decor.
• Add Cedar Trim: Cedar trim can be used to add a decorative touch to your porch ceiling or eave. You can use cedar crown molding or baseboard molding to frame the edges of your ceiling, or add cedar corbels to support your eave.
• Stain or Paint Cedar: Cedar can be stained or painted to match your home's color scheme. A clear stain will bring out the natural beauty of the wood while protecting it from the elements. If you prefer a painted finish, you can choose from a range of colors to match your home's exterior.
• Use Cedar Shingles: Cedar shingles can add a rustic charm to your porch ceiling or eave. Cedar shingles are available in a range of sizes and colors, and they can be installed in various patterns to create a unique look.
• Install a Cedar Beam: A cedar beam can add a structural element to your porch ceiling or eave while adding to the overall aesthetic. You can choose from various sizes and styles of cedar beams to match your home's design.

In conclusion, cedar wood is an excellent choice for porch ceilings and eaves due to its durability and natural resistance to elements. Whether you use cedar tongue and groove panels, cedar trim, cedar shingles, or a cedar beam, each element will add to the overall appeal of your porch. Additionally, cedar is easy to maintain and will last for many years with proper care. So, if you are looking for a stylish and long-lasting solution for your porch ceilings and eaves, consider using cedar wood.

Tree houses

Cedar wood is a popular building material for a variety of projects, thanks to its durability, attractive appearance, and natural resistance to pests and rot. One of the most popular things to do with cedar wood is to build a tree house.

• Choose the right tree: Not all trees are suitable for a tree house. Ideally, you want a strong, healthy tree that can support the weight of the tree house and its occupants. Consider the height, thickness and location of your tree before beginning construction.
• Support system: It’s important to build supports that distribute the weight of the tree house evenly to the tree. This will help to avoid damage to both the tree and the structure. A suspension system using bolts and cables is commonly used to create a solid base for the tree house.
• The design: The design of a tree house should blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Using cedar wood can help achieve this effect. You can incorporate different features that allow for increased functionality and comfort, such as a wrap-around porch, a rope bridge or swings.
• Safety: Safety should always be a top consideration. It is important that the tree house is structurally sound and that all materials used meet safety standards. It’s also important to use proper safety gear during construction.
• Enjoyment: With the tree house properly designed and constructed, the final step is to enjoy it! Harness the power of your imagination and enjoy some peaceful relaxation surrounded by nature.

In conclusion, building a cedar wood tree house is a great way to enhance your outdoor living space. It allows for memories to be created while also providing a fun and unique retreat. With proper design and construction, a tree house can last for years to come.

Spa and hot tub enclosures

Cedar wood is a popular material known for its durability, natural beauty, and great scent. It has been used for centuries in construction, furniture making, and decorative purposes. But did you know that cedar wood is also perfect for creating spa and hot tub enclosures? Let's take a closer look at some of the things you can do with cedar wood for these structures.

Build a Cedar Wood Pergola

A cedar wood pergola is a popular type of spa and hot tub enclosure that provides shade and privacy. It consists of vertical posts, horizontal beams, and a lattice roof. Cedar wood is an ideal material for this type of structure because it is naturally resistant to rot and decay, and it requires minimal maintenance. You can customize your pergola to match your landscape design and add some climbing plants to the lattice roof for a natural look.

Create a Cedar Wood Gazebo

Gazebos are another popular spa and hot tub enclosure design. They offer a sheltered and relaxing space to enjoy your outdoor spa or hot tub. Cedar wood gazebos are sturdy and long-lasting, making them perfect for outdoor use. They can be round, square, or rectangular, and you can add benches, tables, and curtains to make them more comfortable and welcoming.

Design a Cedar Wood Screen Enclosure

If you prefer more privacy, a cedar wood screen enclosure might be the right choice for you. These structures typically consist of wooden frames covered with wooden or metal screens. They provide excellent protection against the wind, bugs, and prying eyes while allowing natural light and ventilation. Cedar wood is resistant to warping, shrinking, and swelling, making it ideal for screen enclosures. You can add some decorative elements, such as lattice panels or carved wooden details, to make your enclosure more attractive.

Construct a Cedar Wood Fence

A cedar wood fence is an excellent way to add privacy and security to your spa or hot tub area. You can choose from a variety of fence designs, such as board-on-board, picket, or lattice. Cedar wood fences are naturally insect-resistant and decay-resistant, making them a smart investment. You can stain or paint your fence to match your house or landscape design.

In conclusion, cedar wood is a versatile and attractive material that can be used to create beautiful and functional spa and hot tub enclosures. Whether you prefer a pergola, gazebo, screen enclosure, or fence, cedar wood provides excellent protection, privacy, and style. With proper care and maintenance, your cedar wood enclosure will last for many years and enhance the value of your property.

Cedar-plank salmon grilling

Cedar wood is not only beautiful but also versatile. One great thing you can do with cedar wood is to use it as a cooking surface for grilling salmon. Cedar-plank salmon grilling has been practiced for generations, and it's a favorite among chefs and foodies.

Here are some tips for grilling salmon on a cedar plank:

• Choose the right plank - The cedar plank should be food-safe and untreated. Look for planks that are at least 1/2 inch thick and large enough to fit the size of your salmon fillet.
• Soak the plank - Before grilling, soak the cedar plank in water for at least an hour. This will prevent the wood from catching fire and creating too much smoke.
• Preheat the grill - Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F.
• Season the salmon - Season your salmon fillet with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs you like. Some popular choices include dill, garlic, and lemon zest.
• Place the plank on the grill - Once the grill is preheated, place the soaked cedar plank on the grates and close the lid. Heat the plank for around 3 to 5 minutes until it starts to smoke and char a little.
• Place the salmon on the plank - Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillet, skin-side down, on the preheated cedar plank.
• Grill the salmon - Close the lid and grill the salmon for around 12 to 15 minutes, or until it's fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
• Serve and enjoy - Remove the cedar plank with the cooked salmon from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the salmon into portions and serve it with your favorite sides.

Frequently asked questions