Looking for authentic western red cedar beams and cedar wood pieces? This guide highlights top cedar options for beams, knee braces, brackets, and siding that suit outdoor structures, pergolas, and decorative projects. It clarifies who each product is best for and why. Whether you’re a DIY homeowner, contractor, or landscape enthusiast, use these selections to compare maintenance, aesthetics, and installation considerations.
Buyer’s quick reference table (selected products):
- Ekena Millwork Olympic Rough Sawn Knee Brace – Best for rustic, structural accents
- Ekena Millwork Thornton Rough Sawn Knee Brace – Better for large-scale projects and exposed beams
- Imperial Craftsman Rough Sawn Bracket – Choose this for decorative support without full framing
- Western Red Cedar Resquared & Rebutted Sidewall Shingles – Best for siding and exterior accents
- 24″ Western Red Cedar Shakes – Good for authentic shakes and durable cladding
Olympic Rough Sawn Knee Brace — Western Red Cedar
Brand: Ekena Millwork
Features: Proudly handcrafted from the finest North American woods; variations in color, grain, knots, sapwood; smooth or rough sawn textures; smooth is about 1/2″ thinner due to sanding.
Best for: Exposed interior or exterior beams where a rustic, timber-frame look is desired. This knee brace supports decorative as well as light structural roles in covered spaces, pergolas, and feature walls.
Why selected: It combines authentic rough-sawn Cedar texture with a reliable height and width, making it a flexible choice for visible beam accents. The natural variation enhances character and complements traditional designs.
Caution: Natural color and grain variation means finish matching may require staining or sealing for a uniform look across multiple pieces.
Thornton Rough Sawn Knee Brace — Cedar
Brand: Ekena Millwork
Features: Handcrafted from North American woods; natural variations in color, grain, knots, sapwood; rough or smooth textures; smooth is ~1/2″ thinner due to sanding.
Best for: Large architectural projects requiring substantial knee-brace visuals, such as wide spans or prominent mantels and ceiling beams.
Why selected: The larger dimensions and rugged texture make it a standout feature piece for a genuine timber look. It pairs well with exposed rafters and rustic interiors.
Caution: The natural wood may exhibit visible knots and cracks; plan for some imperfections in the design and finish accordingly.
Resquared & Rebutted Sidewall Shingles — 18″ Primed
Brand: Pacific Coast
Features: 100 square feet per box at 14″ exposure; 50 square feet per bundle at 7″ exposure; primed and sanded for a ready-to-install finish.
Best for: Exterior siding and decorative wall applications where a clean, durable cedar surface is desired and installation efficiency matters.
Why selected: Cedar shingles provide natural rot resistance and a classic look, making them suitable for uniform wall coverage with consistent maintenance needs.
Caution: Shingle exposure and package coverage can affect project quantity; verify square footage needs before purchase.
24″ Western Red Cedar Shakes — Heavy Handsplit
Brand: Generic
Features: 24″ x 3/4″; 20.56 square feet at 10″ exposure; width varies from 3/4″ to 1″ thick.
Best for: Authentic shake roofing or siding where a rugged, traditional cedar texture is desired and where long-wace installations are needed.
Why selected: Handsplit texture adds a historically authentic appearance, suitable for cabins, sheds, or rustic facades.
Caution: Handmade texture can result in slight dimensional variance; plan for consistent cutting and installation to maintain even exposure.
100% Western Red Cedar Craft Wood — 68 lb Box
Brand: Northern Lights Group
Features: 68 lb box; 60 boards; approximately 12″ x 5″ x 1.5″ per board.
Best for: Custom wood projects requiring uniform cedar boards for shelving, paneling, or small furniture components.
Why selected: A reliable source of cedar lumber in practical sizes for detailed carpentry work within the cedar family.
Caution: Sold as bulk boards; ensure board quality and straightness meet project demands before cutting or finishing.
Buying Guide
What to consider when selecting western red cedar beams and related cedar products:
- Application: Structural needs vs. decorative accents; knee braces and brackets are often decorative in modern designs but can support light framing when specified.
- Texture: Rough sawn provides rustic charm and better grip for paints and finishes; smooth is preferred for refined interiors and easier finishing.
- Exposure and size: Confirm dimensions (width, thickness, length) to ensure proper fit with existing framing or design plans.
- Finish and treatment: Cedar accepts stains and sealants well; plan for outdoor exposure by selecting rot-resistant finishes and proper maintenance schedules.
- Waste and installation: Some products have natural variances; order extra material to account for cuts and waste, especially when matching grain patterns.
- Maintenance: Cedar is naturally durable but benefits from periodic sealing, especially for exterior applications to maintain color and prevent weathering.
FAQ
- Q: Are these cedar pieces suitable for structural beams in outdoor structures? A: Some items are designed as decorative knee braces and brackets; verify load ratings and manufacturer guidance for structural use.
- Q: How should I finish western red cedar for outdoor use? A: Apply a water-repellent sealant or semi-transparent stain to protect against moisture while preserving natural color.
- Q: Will cedar shingles and shakes match beams visually? A: They can complement cedar beam accents, but color and grain vary; plan samples to ensure a cohesive look.
- Q: Do cedar products require special maintenance over time? A: Yes; periodic sealing and cleaning help reduce weathering and preserve appearance, especially in harsh climates.
- Q: How do I estimate quantity for siding or shingles? A: Calculate square footage by wall area, then add extra for waste and cuts; follow manufacturer packaging details.
- Q: Can I mix rough sawn and smooth cedar in the same project? A: Yes; mixing textures creates visual interest, but plan transitions and finishes for a cohesive design.