Author Archives: Cedar Country Lumber

Azek Trim Boards

THE #1 BRAND OF LOW MAINTENANCE TRIM.

Made from cellular PVC, AZEK® Trim has precise sealed edges on all 4 sides and is ideal for applications such as window and door trim on the exterior of your house. Long known for the unequaled combination of uniformity, durability, workability, and beauty, AZEK Trim has the highest proven performance on the market.  And, since every inch is usable, there is no waste!

Available in Trim Boards, solid Cellular PVC sheets, Cellular PVC Corner Boards, Cellular PVC Beadboard, as well as many other profiles, AZEK can be installed using traditional tools and fasteners.  It works just like wood and can even be even mitered, routed, and turned on a lathe.   AZEK Trim products can be laminated and even heat formed to create curves for custom applications.  And while all these products are produced in crisp white, they can readily accept paints and stains.  It is also impressively easy to clean.

AZEK Trim on house with Western Red Cedar Shingles

AZEK will not rot, cup, split, twist or warp ~ even in harsh environments.  It is resistant to moisture, insects, and decay and does not require paint for protection.  An impressive 25-year manufacturer’s warranty backs this promise.  For limits and more information on the warranty, please visit www.Azek.com/Warranty-and-Care.

Our sales staff would be happy to discuss with you the right AZEK product for your job, so before your next project, be sure to visit us!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street ~ Burlington, WA 98233

We ship nationwide!

Western Red Cedar Raised Garden Beds

Raised garden beds are a great solution for most people wanting to put in a vegetable garden.   Not only do they look neat and tidy, they also produce a higher yield than traditional gardens per square foot.

Because of its resistance to rot and decay, Western Red Cedar is the IDEAL choice for raised beds.

cedar raised garden beds

And here are just a few more reasons why Western Red Cedar raised garden beds are a great choice

  • Longer planting season. In the Spring, the soil warms faster and retains heat longer into the fall.
  • Because the soil is not being walked on, there is great aeration for your plants, as well as excellent drainage.
  • Less maintenance! Weed control is much easier, as is pest control
  • Way less bending ~ this provides relief to the back and knees
  • No tree roots or other obstacles so root expansion is not impeded
  • The wooden framework makes it easy to attach trellises for upright planting – thus producing an even higher yield
  • It is easier to amend the soil as needed for the types of crops being grown

When planning your new raised garden, ideally you would want your beds to be 3 to 5 feet across to allow for easy accessibility for planning, harvesting, and weeding and allow enough soil for the veggies to grow in.  Any narrower than 3’ do tend to dry out fairly quickly.   As far as length, that can vary as much as your imagination or what your particular space allows.   Beds 10-12” deep work well for most vegetables.

Raised bed garden

Western Red Cedar Raised Garden Bed Material

**IN STOCK**

2×12” Western Red Cedar for raised garden beds at pricing you can afford!  Limited to stock on hand!

Cedar for raised garden beds

HOW TO

Select a nice sunny location and remove the sod.  Next, level the area to the best of your ability.  Cut your Cedar into your desired lengths and lay it in place.  Next, screw your pieces together using a self-taping screw, such as a 4” Timberlock.  We would recommend using 2 per connection.

3

For protection against weeds coming up through the bottom of the bed, you can place a weed-blocking cloth on the bottom.  Additionally, if you are worried about moles or other critters boring up through your beds, you can lay chicken wire inside the bed and secure it to the sides using staples.  Next, fill your bed with good quality organic soil, and you are ready to plant!

raised garden beds filled with organic soil ready to plant

Due to excellent pricing on our Raised Garden Bed Cedar, it is sold *as is* ~ there are no returns or exchanges. Pricing is limited to stock and lengths on hand.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

360.757.6343

Decorative Connectors, Screws and Bolts for use with Western Red Cedar, Alaskan Yellow Cedar and ACQ Pressure Treated Building Materials

**SORRY, WE ARE NO LONGER CARRYING OZCO PRODUCTS DUE TO LACK OF DISTRIBUTION IN OUR AREA**MANY OF THEIR ITEMS ARE ON AMAZON**

Looking for heavy-duty connectors, screws, and bolts for your outdoor Cedar project? Whether it be fastening together garden beds, creating a custom landscape structure, or constructing a custom timber entryway, we’ve got a great line of products produced by Ozco Building Products that is sure to help!

Timber Bolts & Screws

OZCO’s OWT (Ornamental Wood Ties™) Timber Screws are pre-engineered to make building faster and easier. These heavy-duty fasteners come in a wide range of sizes, from 1-¾” all the way to a full 12”, perfect for any wood-to-wood project, no matter the size.

There’s no pre-drilling required for these Timber Screws! The coating ensures that the screw will penetrate the wood with ease without splitting the wood and are approved for use with ACQ treated lumber, as well as Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar. OWT Timber Screws feature a built-in washer and a hex head of 3/8”. OWT Timber Screws are far from ordinary and are truly a building breakthrough.

1

2

3

4

5

6

ozco screws

Timber Bolts

Self-adjusting up to 2”, OWT Timber Bolts give you the strength you need combined with the style you want. A perfect complement to Cedar arbors, trellises, pergolas, and other outdoor structures. OWT Timber Bolts are available in four different sizes 4 to 6”, 6 to 8”, 8 to 10”, and 10” to 12”, all with a rugged, stylish black hex head in either 1/2″ or 3/4″ diameters.  These adjustable bolts meet or exceed building codes.  And, while all of Ozco’s products are designed for exterior projects, they are also #OWTstanding for interior design, from architecture to furnishings.

ozco adjustable bolts

Decorative Structural Wood Connectors

Ornamental Wood Ties™ (OWT) are the ultimate statement of style combined with strength. These sturdy connectors produce strong connections while enhancing the appeal of your project. Suitable for contact with ACQ Treated Lumber, Western Red Cedar, Alaskan Yellow Cedar, and other building materials, there are a wide variety of products, including post bases, ornamental anchors, rail saddles, post to beam connectors, truss accents and connectors, rafter clips and joist hangers. Each piece is made from powder-coated hot-dipped galvanized steel for optimum corrosion resistance.

black decorative joist tiesblack decorative truss fan

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

950 B Fountain Street ~ Burlington, WA  98233

We ship nationwide!

Natural Characteristics of Western Red Cedar

information provided by the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association 

DENSITY

One of the lightest commercial softwoods, the density of Western Red Cedar at oven-dry conditions is approximately 21 pounds per cubic foot with a relative density (specific gravity) of 0.32. Comparative oven-dry densities of cedar and some other softwood species are given in the Table 1 below.

Cedar’s low density enhances its insulation value and makes it an easy wood to transport and handle.

Loading a Container of Western Red Cedar for transport to Hawaii

We ship nationwide!  This container was loaded for transport to Hawaii

DIMENSIONAL STABILITY

Like all woods, Western Red Cedar is hygroscopic and will absorb or discharge moisture to attain equilibrium with the surrounding atmosphere. The size differential between dry and unseasoned Western Red Cedar is given in Table 2 below.

Shrinkage in both the radial and tangential directions is given in Table 3 below.

Cedar has a very low shrinkage factor and is superior to all other coniferous woods in its resistance to warping, twisting, and checking.

Clear, Western Red Cedar Timbers

THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY

Wood is an excellent thermal insulator. This is an important characteristic since good thermal insulators help keep buildings cool in the summer and reduce heating costs in the winter. The conduction of heat in wood is directly related to its density. Woods with low density have the highest thermal insulating value because such woods contain a high proportion of cell cavities. In dry wood, these cavities are filled with air, one of the best-known thermal insulators.

With its low density and high proportion of air spaces, Western Red Cedar is the best thermal insulator among the commonly available softwood species and is far superior to brick, concrete, or steel.

Western Red Cedar has excellent thermal properties

Hurricane Sandy unfortunately destroyed this amazing project we supplied the cedar for on Fire Island.

It has a coefficient of thermal conductivity (k value) at 12% mc of 0.74 BTU inch/ft 2h degrees F. The R-value (the reciprocal of k) for Western Red Cedar is 1.35″ (34mm) of thickness.

ACCOUSTICAL PROPERTIES

An important acoustical property of wood is its ability to damp vibrations. Wood has a cellular network of minute interlocking pores that convert sound energy into heat by frictional and viscoelastic resistance. Because of the high internal friction created by the cellular pore network, wood has more sound damping capacity than most structural materials. Floor, ceiling, and wall assemblies of wood can provide effective, economical sound insulation and absorption when properly utilized.

Western Red Cedar is particularly effective in sound damping and can help reduce noise or confine it to certain areas.

Clear, Western Red Cedar T&G

photo and craftsmanship by Ravenhill of Friday Harbor, WA

FLAME SPREADING

Flame spreading ratings describe the surface burning characteristics of interior finishes.  They are used to regulate the use of interior finish materials to reduce the probability of rapid fire spread. Materials are burned in a test furnace for a relative assessment of flammability. The lower the flame spread rating, the more the material resists the spread of fire.

Building codes in North America generally define as interior finish any exposed material that forms part of the building interior. This usually includes interior wall and ceiling finishes, flooring, windows, doors, and other wood products. US codes set the maximum flame spread rating for interior wall, and ceiling finishes in most buildings at 200.

The flame spread rating for Western Red Cedar is 69 (Class II rating), which is much lower than the average finishes.

Smoke-developed classifications reflect the amount of smoke released by burning material. They are used in conjunction with the flame spread ratings to regulate the use of interior finish materials where the potential to generate smoke or control smoke movement is of major fire safety importance.

The smoke-developed classification for Western Red Cedar is 98. US codes set the maximum smoke developed classification for interior wall, and ceiling finishes in most buildings at 450.

Western Red Cedar’s flame spread rating and smoke developed classification compare well with the ratings of many other softwood and hardwood species.

Western Red Cedar can be used for an interior finish in some building applications where other species would not be permitted because of its favorable performance.

Western Red Cedar adds beauty and warmth to interiors

photo and craftsmanship by Impel Construction of Stanwood, WA

DURABILITY

Historically, native peoples of the Pacific coast prized cedar for its long-lasting qualities and used wood and bark from cedar trees for most of their building needs.

Evidence of cedar’s durability are the many cedar artifacts still in good condition today.

Western Red Cedar is ideal for historical markers and monuments

we supplied the full, rough sawn Western Red Cedar for this project on Long Island, NY

Properly finished and maintained, cedar will deliver decades of trouble-free service. If exposed for prolonged periods to conditions where decay could be a factor, such as where the wood is in contact with the ground, cedar should be treated with suitable wood preservatives.

FASTENING

Western Red Cedar has good fastening properties, but its natural preservatives have a corrosive effect on some unprotected metals in close contact, causing a black stain on the wood. Fasteners should be corrosive resistant such as aluminum, brass, silicon bronze, hot-dipped galvanized, or stainless steel.  Read more about choosing the right fasteners for your job HERE.

Nails and screws used to fasten Western Red Cedar should be about one-third longer than those used to fasten hardwood species.  It also works well with a wide range of adhesives.

Because it is free of pitch and resin, Western Red Cedar has excellent gluing properties.

FINISHING

Although cedar is a naturally durable species, leaving it untreated is not recommended because a finish or protective coating will greatly increase its service life.

Cedar is free of pitch, and with its high degree of dimensional stability, it is the best of the softwoods for accepting paints, stains, oils, and other coatings.

Western Red Cedar accepts stains and paint easily

we supplied the Western Red Cedar for this stunning project for Smith Gardens in Marysville, WA

WORKABILITY

Cedar takes a fine finish in all hand and machine operations, takes fasteners without splitting, and is easily sawn and nailed. When working with Western Red Cedar, sharp cutters are recommended.

With its straight grain and uniform texture, Western Red Cedar is among the easiest and most rewarding woods to work with.

Decoy carved out of Western Red Cedar

PRODUCTS, GRADES, AND SIZES

There are few more versatile building materials than Western Red Cedar, which is ideal both for indoor and outdoor uses. Western Red Cedar lumber is available in visual stress grades for construction and finishing uses in a range of lengths, widths, and thicknesses. It is available in clear or knotty grades with smooth-surfaced, combed, or rough sawn finishes; kiln dried or unseasoned (green); flat grain and vertical grain.

Western Red Cedar is used to manufacture a range of specialty products such
as siding, paneling, roofing, structural decking, and outdoor decking.

Table 1.  Comparative Softwood Densities (PCF)

SPECIES                               OVEN-DRY DENSITY
Western Red Cedar                       21
Douglas Fir                                      31
Ponderosa Pine                              27
Southern Pine                                34

Table 2.   Size Differential Between Unseasoned and Dry Lumber

                                              SIZE DIFFERENTIAL
NOMINAL                               BETWEEN UNSEASONED
DIMENSION                           AND DRY LUMBER
(INCHES)                                AFTER SURFACING
                                                  (INCHES)
1½ or less                                   1/32
2 to 4                                             1/16
5 to 7                                             1/8
8 or more                                     1/4

Table 3.     Shrinkage of Western Red Cedar

FROM KILN DRIED
FROM GREEN (25% OR             (15% AVERAGE
GREATER MOISTURE                MOISTURE
DIRECTION                           CONTENT) TO:                            CONTENT) TO:

OF SHRINKAGE                  15%       12%        6%                       15%     12%       6%
0.96       1.2          1.8                        0       0.3         1.0
TANGENTIAL                       2.0        2.6         3.8                        0       0.7         2.1

Notes:

1. Radial shrinkage applies to the width of vertical grain lumber: tangential to the width of flat grain lumber.

2. Shrinkage does not begin until the fiber saturation point is reached.

3. 15% is the average equilibrium moisture content of wood during the summer in the Pacific Northwest.

4. 12% is the summer average equilibrium moisture content in the US’s dry areas.

5. 6% is the average equilibrium moisture content for interiors of heated buildings.

Cedar Country Lumber

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

We ship nationwide!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street ~ Burlington, WA  98233

Why Are Cedar Prices Going Up?

You may have been surprised by the recent and/or impending price increases on Western Red Cedar lately.   This has been caused by a large trade dispute between Canada and the U.S. that has been going on since the 80’s on all softwoods imported from Canada.  Not only is this affecting Western Red Cedar, but it also affects Alaskan Yellow Cedar, Douglas Fir, Pine, and a host of other softwoods.

“Canada–United States softwood lumber dispute” Wikipedia

The Canada–U.S.A softwood lumber dispute is one of the largest and most enduring trade disputes between both nations.[1] This conflict was given rise in the early 1980s, and its effects are still seen today. British Columbia, the major Canadian exporter of softwood lumber to the United States, was most affected, reporting losses of 9,494 direct and indirect jobs between 2004 and 2009.[2]

The heart of the dispute is the claim that the Canadian lumber industry is unfairly subsidized by federal and provincial governments, as most timber in Canada is owned by the provincial governments. The prices charged to harvest the timber are set administratively, rather than through the competitive marketplace, the norm in the United States. In the United States, softwood lumber lots are privately owned, and the owners form an effective political lobby. The United States claims that the Canadian arrangement constitutes an unfair subsidy and is thus subject to U.S. trade remedy laws, where foreign trade benefiting from subsidies can be subject to a countervailing duty tariff to offset the subsidy and bring the price of the commodity back up to market rates.

The Canadian government and lumber industry dispute this assertion based on a number of factors, including that Canadian timber is provided to such a wide range of industries and that lack of specificity makes it ineligible to be considered a subsidy under U.S. law. Under U.S. trade remedy law, a countervailable subsidy must be specific to a particular industry. This requirement precludes the imposition of countervailing duties on government programs, such as roads, that are meant to benefit a broad array of interests. Since 1982, there have been four major iterations of the dispute.

For more information on why there has not been a resolution on this, and pricing is going up, we invite you to read this story from Global News published last Fall.

There is, unfortunately, little information regarding what is being done to come to an agreement on the importing of softwoods from Canada; the current deal has expired, and the marketplace is bracing for significant price increases.  Most companies implemented some price increases on February 1, 2017.

Because of this, we are doing our very best to honor any price quotes to the best of our ability. However, all material is subject to prior sale, and pricing is subject to change on a daily basis as this shakes out.

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

We Ship Nationwide!

360.757.6343

UPDATE – May 2, 2017

Here is a great article on who the 20% imposed tariff would affect the most and the approximate cost of a new home published by The Hill

UPDATE – August 1, 2017

Canadians are “Hopeful” for a softwood deal with the US this month.  Read more HERE

UPDATE – November 7, 2017

Canada to dispute decision on the softwood agreement with the US.  The U.S.          International Trade Commission will make a final rule on the issue by Dec. 18.  Read more HERE

WindsorONE Trim Boards, Specialty Boards and Moldings

Manufactured in the USA and distributed by Cedar Country Lumber, WindsorONE trim boards, specialty boards, and moldings are durable enough for outdoor use and safe for interior use.

WindsorONE boards are made of real wood, finger jointed, and coated with three coats of acrylic latex primer. With sharp, crisp edges on all profiles, WindsorONE provides clean, strong lines that make your projects stand out.  Builders use WindsorONE because every stick of WindsorONE is smooth, straight, and comes primed and ready to install.

WindsorOne Specialty Boards

Focusing on detail and craftsmanship is what has made WindsorONE a leader in the interior/exterior trim market since 1972. All products are made from wood that has been sustainably harvested with no added formaldehyde, which means no harmful odors.

WindsorOne Historical Moldings

There are a wide range of WindsorONE products available, including S1S2E and S4S Trim Boards, Tongue and Groove boards, Beaded Ceiling Boards, Beaded Casing & Shiplap, as well as a wide variety of Classic Colonial, Greek Revival, Craftsman, and Colonial Revival historically accurate moldings, wainscot caps and panel molding.

For a complete brochure, please click HERE.

WindsorOne Products

Before Your Next Project, Be Sure to Visit Us! We Ship Nationwide!

ph 360.757.6343

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

950 B Fountain Street ~ Burlington, WA

WindsorOne Exterior Trim

Western Red Cedar Shakes – Grades and Definitions

Used for many centuries in the Pacific Northwest due to the abundance of material, Western Red Cedar Shakes have stood the test of time.  Prized for their proven reliability, resistance to rot and decay, and rustic beauty that no human-made product can duplicate, Western Red Cedar Shakes are an extremely popular choice for today’s construction projects all over the world, including those built using Green Building techniques.

Western Red Cedar Being Harvested for Cedar Shakes

Building products made from natural wood have been proven to provide the highest insulation value (thus saving the consumer money on electricity), use less energy to produce, and are manufactured from totally renewable resources. In addition, when the life cycle of wood building materials are complete, they can be easily and safely disposed of. Read More  HERE

Shakes are made from splitting blocks, rather than sawing, and are used on roofs as well as sidewalls. At Cedar Country Lumber, we offer two main types Western Red Cedar Shakes in either 18” or 24” lengths from mills that meet Certi-Label quality control standards

  • Hand split & Resawn
  • TapersawnWestern Red Cedar Shakes

Hand-split & Re-sawn Western Red Cedar Shakes have a split face with a sawn back and are available in ½” (“mediums”) or ¾” (“heavy”) thickness with a naturally rustic appearance.

Taper-sawn Western Red Cedar Shakes are sawn on both sides for a semi-textured look, though not as precise as what is commonly found on shingles. Taper-sawn shakes are thicker than common shingles, which produces a thicker shadow line.   Our taper-sawn shakes are available in 5/8”, 3/4”, and 7/8” thicknesses.

If desired, our Western Red Cedar Shakes are available with pressure-impregnated fire retardant or preservative treatment, as well as custom cuts and finishes. Complementing hip and ridge cap is also available for your Western Red Cedar roofing project.

Western Red Cedar Roofing Shakes by Teal Cedar

For care and maintenance information for your Western Red Cedar Shakes and Shingles, please click HERE

Before your next project, be sure to visit us ~ We ship nationwide!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

ph  360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA  98233

Zometek – Bamboo Composite Decking offered by Cedar Country Lumber

ZomeTek/Apollo Composite Decking is made from 100% recycled content by mixing natural bamboo fiber and recycled plastics, along with additives to prevent mold and mildew; this decking line will provide years of service with minimal maintenance. Backed with a 25-year residential limited warranty (10-year when used on commercial properties), this decking is strong, resists stains, mold, mildew, and moisture, and can withstand high traffic, rain, snow, ice, salt, and sand, and never requires painting, staining or sealing.

Zometek Color Options

Zometek Color Options

ZomeTek’s xBEAM bamboo composite deck planks are extruded from unique, high-pressure, and temperature machines, which results in each piece being consistent in size and length each and every time.  The xBEAM deck planks’ interior has 6 hollow chambers that reduce the weight of each plank. In addition, the hollow channels mean there is less expansion and contraction.  Each board is 5×5” wide and 1” tall, and all 5 beautiful colors are available in 12, 16, or 20-foot lengths.  The ZomeTek xBeam deck planks can be installed by face screwing the boards or with a hidden fastener system and installed using either surface (Ridged or Brushed).

Zometek finish options

Complimenting Fascia, Stair Treads, Trim, Post Sleeves, Base Collars, and Post Caps are available in all the same colors as the deck planks.  Please note ~ like most manufactured products, ZomeTek xBeam deck boards and their accessories may have slight color variations from piece to piece.  This is due to naturally occurring variations in the bamboo and recycled plastic.  Therefore, we recommend purchasing all the decking materials at the same time as manufacturing runs can produce slightly different colors.

Zometek xBeam Product Specifications

Plank Dimensions

  • 5.5 inches wide, 1 inches thick, (12′, 16′, or 20′ lengths available)

Surface Effect

  • Ridged (side 1) / Brushed (side 2)

Installation Options

  • Face screw or hidden fastener system

Low Maintenance

  • No sealing, painting, or refinishing required

Environmental

  • 100% recycled content

Construction

  • 96% recycled fibers and HDPE plastic
  • 4% additives for color and durability

LEED v3 credit

  • Qualifies for MR 6: Rapidly Renewable Materials

IEQ 4.3

  • Qualifies for Low Emitting Materials: Flooring Systems

Warranty

  • 25 yr residential warranty
  • 10 yr commercial warranty

General ZomeTek xBeam Deck Plank Installation Directions

ZomeTek deck planks cut and work just like real wood, so special tools are not required for cutting or installation.  ZomeTek does recommend using a 60-tooth carbide-tipped blade.

Before installing, be sure all existing framing is sound and meets your local building codes.  To comply with the manufacturer’s recommendations and maintain warranties, the decking joists must be a maximum of 16” on center, and proper slope for drainage must be maintained.

xBeam deck planks can be installed by face-screwing or with a blind screw.  CAMO is an approved installation method, as well ~ please follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.

All materials do expand and contract as temperatures rise and fall.  Always leave an appropriate gap between deck planks, which do vary based on the length of the plank being installed.  Please print the zometek_installation_guide for specifics, as well as more detailed installation instructions.

General ZomeTek xBeam Deck Plank Maintenance

For general cleaning, the deck can be sprayed off with a hose to remove surface debris.  A mild dish soap mixed with warm water and a soft-bristle brush may be used to remove dirt and/or debris from the grooves or texture, then thoroughly rinsed with water.  A thorough cleaning using an approved cleaner is recommended twice per year.  For a list of approved cleaners, please visit www.zometek.com.

To remove light stains caused by food, grease, or oil, if mild dish soap and warm water do not remove the stain, try using Simple Green.  The sooner the spill is cleaned up, the easier it will be to remove.

Pressure washers may be used with a maximum of 1500 PSI.  Use a fan tip and keep a distance of at least 8-10” from the deck surface.

Please print the zometek_maintenance_guide for more information

Zometek Bamboo Composite Decking

With so many options on the market for manufactured decking, we are certain you will find ZomeTek to be an eco-friendly manufactured decking product that is easy to fall in love with.

If you need some help designing YOUR dream deck, please visit our “Tips for Designing Your Dream Deck” blog by clicking HERE.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us! We ship nationwide!

1.360.757.6343

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

950 B Fountain Street ~ Burlington, WA  98233

Pre-Stained and Pre-Primed Western Red Cedar Shingles

Made from high-quality Western Red Cedar, renowned for even grain, weather resistance, thermal insulation, and longevity, our pre-stained or pre-primed shingles are available in natural, sanded, and grooved finishes, as well as fancy cuts.

Readily available “off the shelf” (as a special order) in 6 beautiful colors, as well as a transparent Cedar Tone, or in any custom color desired, including treatment with bleaching oil, our pre-stained Western Red Cedar Shingles can add a stunning signature look to any building, combined with lasting durability.

“Off The Shelf” Semi-Solid Oil Stain Colors

Water Lily

Coastal Mist

Iron Stone

 Traditional Brick

Beach Pebble

Thisis Brown

Teal Cedar Pre-stained shingle colors

  • Red Cedar Transparent Stain available with a 5-year warranty
  • Bleached Shingles are a mix of 50/50 Bleaching Oil and Cabot Driftwood Grey Stain
  • Custom pre-stained shingles are available using a quality brand of oil-based semitransparent, semi-solid, or solid one-coat finishes, including General Paint Products. Custom colors available.
  • Pre-stain and pre-prime (in grey or white) is available for natural, grooved, sanded, and fancy cut shingles
  • #1-16”, 18” & 24” Rebutted & Rejointed (R&R) Shingles, 100% vertical grain, 100%
    heartwood
  • #2-16”, 18” & 24” Rebutted & Rejointed Shingles
  • For more information on the grades, sizes, and definition of Western Red Cedar shingles, please check out our previous blog post by clicking HERE

prestained western red cedar shingles

Installation and Care of Western Red Cedar Shingles

Western Red Cedar Shingles owe their beauty, color, durability, and resistance to decay and insects to the presence of natural tannins produced during normal growth. These natural extractives in Western Red Cedar are water-soluble and may lead to discoloration of finishes on the exposed surface of the shingle. Discoloration from extractives usually appears when moisture from inside the home travels through the shingle to the exposed surface. As the moisture evaporates, it may leave reddish-brown vertical streaks. This discoloration is not caused by the stain, the paint, or any manufacturing process.

Cedar Shingles should always be stored in a dry, well-ventilated location. You must keep
the product dry throughout the application process. You also must take steps to minimize or eliminate interior sources of moisture before and after sidewall shingle application, including, but not limited to the following:

  • Maintain low interior humidity levels (this is the most common source of extractive discoloration)
  • Ensure proper ventilation during drywall installation, texture spraying, painting, or any other process which increases the humidity inside the building. It is more likely that extractive bleeding will occur if these processes are not completed prior to the application of the sidewall shingles
  • Apply over dry panels (OSB or plywood)
  • Use kiln dried studs

To minimize the potential for extractive discoloration, our supplier ensures that the shingles are dried to a moisture content that is less than 15%. They also coat the entire shingle with a primer, paint, or stain. Shingles coated with an oil-based solid primer that have a finished coat applied over the primer are less likely to experience extractive discoloration. Semi-solid, semi-transparent, and clear stains offer less protection.

Extractive discoloration may also be caused by external sources such as rain, dew, and/or water from a faulty roof and gutter drainage. These water sources combined with dust and other matter may cause stains on the exposed area of the shingle, which is not the failure of the shingle, paint, or stain.

Stain absorption may vary due to the density and/or porosity of old-growth Western Red Cedar fiber, as well as color variations in the actual shingles. The final color of the stain and how it adheres/absorbs into the material will vary. Due to this, color matches are not guaranteed to exactly match any previous sample or order.

In some cases, certain coatings are “1 coat only” applications. However, a second field coating is recommended after the stain has cured for best stain performance. Prior to any field coating, test a small inconspicuous area for proper absorption. Back brushing is recommended.  Be sure not to over-apply the stain or paint.

Western Red Cedar Stained Shingles

Limited warranties on coating/finishes are offered through the coating/finish manufacturer.

“Off the Shelf” Colors, as well as Pre-Primed & Pre-Stained Shingles are brought in per order and do require a small lead time. Sorry, we are unable to accept any returns or exchanges on special order items, such as these.

Because Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar is only grown in the Pacific Northwest, where Cedar Country is located, we are YOUR premium source for Cedar Shingles and Shakes. We ship nationwide from one bundle or carton to full truckloads and extremely competitive pricing ~ even with freight.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA 98233
Toll-Free Phone (866) 757.6343    Fax (360) 757.1050

Cedar Shingle Grades and Definitions

Old Growth Western Red Cedar being harvested to be made into Shingles

In North America, shingles and shakes are typically made from California redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata), and in some cases, Alaskan Yellow Cedar (Cupressus nootkatensis); while in Scandinavia and Central Europe, they are more commonly made from Pine (Pinus sylvestris).  Shingles are made from blocks that have been edge cut using a circular saw, whereas shakes are split. Shingles can be used on roofs, as well as sidewalls.

Shingles are manufactured by clamping blocks of wood into a carriage that slides back and forth across a blade, tilting and moving the block closer to the blade with each pass to automatically form a tapered cut that is thin on one end and thicker on the other. The thickness at the“butt” (the thicker end of the shingle) is generally about 3/8” but does vary. The final correct thickness for shingles is based using a stack of shingles rather than a single piece.

Western Red Cedar Shingles
At Cedar Country Lumber, we offer a wide selection of shingles made from Western Red Cedar, as well as Alaskan Yellow Cedar, that will help you achieve the look you desire in a wide range of price points; from custom-cut, dried, and colored shingles to utility-grade shingles that are much easier on the pocketbook, but perform admirably in any climate.

In today’s market place, Western Red and Alaskan Yellow Cedar Shingles are available in 3 common lengths

  • 16” ~ Also known as “Fivex”
  • 18” ~ Also known as “Perfection”
  • 24” ~ Also known as “Royals”

After the shingles are cut, they are graded into three main categories when using the Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau’s Certi-label grading system.

  • Number 1 ~ Also known as “Blue Label”
  • Number 2 ~ Also known as “Red Label”
  • Number 3 ~ Also known as “Black Label”

Number 1 ~ the highest grade of shingles are 100% heartwood, 100% clear, and 100% edge grain. Western Red Cedar Shingles in this grade are sometimes referred to as “Blue Label”, which is a Registered Certi-label trademark. These are available in 16”, 18”, and 24” lengths in either Western Red Cedar or Alaskan Yellow Cedar. Our No. 1 Shingles are also available with a pressure-impregnated fire retardant or preservative treatment.

Number 2 ~ a perfectly acceptable grade for many applications. Some flat grain and limited sapwood are permitted. However, there is not less than 10” clear on 16” shingles, 11” on 18’ shingles, and 16” on 24” shingles. Western Red Cedar Shingles within this grade are sometimes referred to as “Red Label”.

Number 3 ~ a utility-grade for economy applications; commonly used on sheds and utilitarian buildings or for starter courses for higher grades. Within this grade, there is not less than 6” clear on 16” and 18” shingles, 10” clear on 24” shingles. This grade of Western Red Cedar Shingles are sometimes referred to as “Black Label” due to the grading system put into place by the Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau.

Sidewall Cedar Shingles

Rebutted & Rejoined Cedar Shingles ~ Shingles that are sawn and re-manufactured on all four sides to ensure square butts and parallel edges for a superior appearance on sidewall applications. Rebutted and Rejoined Shingles are available in Number 1 and Number 2 grades and are available in all three lengths (16”, 18”, and 24”). These Shingles are commonly referred to as “R&R’s” and are predominately provided Kiln Dried and packaged in cartons rather than bundles.

#1 R&R Western Red Cedar Sidewall Shingles

craftsmanship by Ravenhill Construction

Pre-stained Western Red Cedar Shingles

If desired, Western Red Cedar R&R Shingles can be provided with a sanded or machine grooved face, as well as pre-primed or pre-stained in nearly every color and hue imaginable.  There are also 6 “off the shelf” colors of pre-stained shingles that you can choose from.

Pre-stained Western Red Cedar Shingles

craftsmanship by Impel Construction

Fancy Cut Western Red Cedar Shingles ~ manufactured from #1 Western Red Cedar shingles into a variety of shapes that are 3” & 5” widths cut from 18” & 24” lengths; offered in 8 different shapes, with an endless variety of custom cuts and finishes available. These shingles add unique charm and character to gable ends, balconies, fences, entryways, interior, and exterior walls. To find out more, please click HERE.

Western Red Cedar Fancy Cut Shingles

Because Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar is only grown in the Pacific Northwest, where Cedar Country is located, we are YOUR premium source for Cedar Shingles and Shakes. We ship nationwide from one bundle or carton to full truckloads and extremely competitive pricing ~ even with freight.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Toll-Free 866.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA