Category Archives: Customer Projects

Western Red Cedar Supplied for National Park Service at Stehekin

Thuja plicata, commonly called western red cedar or Pacific red cedar, giant arborvitae or western arborvitae, giant cedar, or shinglewood, is a species of Thuja, an evergreen coniferous tree in the cypress family native to western North America. It is not a true cedar of the genus Cedrus.

Western Red Cedar trees produce their own thujaplicin, a chemical substance that is known to have anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. It’s also said to be an anti-oxidant. Long before it was used in modern construction, Western Red Cedar played a large role in the lives of Native Americans. So much that they called it “the Tree of Life”.

Native to the Pacific Northwest, where Cedar Country Lumber is located, we are proud suppliers of Western Red Cedar building materials for new construction, as well as historical restorations. Over the years, we have had the pleasure of working with the North Cascades National Park staff on many of their projects, including some at Stehekin.

Accessible only by foot, boat, or plane, Stehekin is located on the Northern shores of Lake Chelan in Eastern Washington and offers many outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and kayaking. For visitors wishing to spend the night with amenities, there are cabins, a house, and rooms for rent, as well as a restaurant and general store.

Western Red Cedar supplied for National Park Service at Stehekin

Special “thanks” to our friends, the Roberts, for capturing these photos on their recent trip to Stehekin!

Knotty Western Red Cedar Siding

Knotty Western Red Cedar Siding

Hand Split Western Red Cedar Shakes

Hand Split Western Red Cedar Shakes

Western Red Cedar Board and Batten Siding

Western Red Cedar Board and Batten Siding

Select Tight Knot Western Red Cedar

Select Tight Knot Western Red Cedar

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

360.757.6343

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

Clear Western Red Cedar Building Materials Used for Custom Fence

Grown only in the Pacific Northwest, Thuja plicata, commonly referred to as Western Red Cedar, is the ultimate building material for outdoor applications due to its natural durability and workability.  It is resistant to rot, decay, and insect attacks.  This means that anything built with it will last longer and require less maintenance.  Aesthetically, there is no parallel for the natural beauty of Western Red Cedar.

Western Red Cedar is available in different grades, including the one that is just right for your project.  From casual knotty grades to clear grades, each offers its own unique style to help you achieve the architectural element you desire.

When a motivated homeowner in California contacted us about supplying him with Western Red Cedar for a fence he wanted to build, he also provided us with pictures he found on Pinterest.  This helped us determine what grade and dimension of Western Red Cedar he was interested in using for his custom fence.

With his handy work, and our high quality, clear Western Red Cedar, he was able to create an amazing feature on his property that will last for many, many years!

“Michele – G’Morning. I wanted to thank you for all you did and for providing the Cedar Lumber. I wanted to send you a couple of pictures of the end result, it turned out amazing” – Rick

custom gate constructed from clear Western Red Cedar lumber

custom fence made from clear western red cedar lumber

When specifying materials for your next project, don’t be disappointed, insist on Western Red Cedar, the Cedar that is grown in our back yard!  Even with shipping (in most instances), the pricing is comparable to your local lumberyard, with the quality and supply much better.

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

We ship nationwide!

Fence Inspirations

Whether it is to keep critters in or out, define property lines or outdoor spaces, create visual interest or add privacy, a well-thought-out and properly constructed fence adds immediate “curb appeal” to any address.   From rustic to fancy, using real wood in your fence design adds the warmth and beauty that man-made products just can’t duplicate.

Clear and knotty Western Red Cedar Fencing

Western Red Cedar Fencing

Prized for its natural durability and workability, Western Red Cedar has always been a top choice wood for outdoor fences.   For those wishing to create a traditional privacy fence at an economical price, standard 5′ or 6′ fence grade boards are a great choice.  The fence boards are installed vertically by securing them to 2×4’s that have been screwed or nailed into fence posts.

Western Red Cedar Privacy Fence

Another option for a privacy fence that adds a bit more character and interest is to install Western Red Cedar fence boards, deck boards, or fascia grade boards vertically between posts.  Here is a great example

5/4x6" Western Red Cedar Decking Used as Vertically installed Fencing

5/4×6″ Western Red Cedar Decking Used as Fencing

Western Red Cedar grapestake fencing and split rail fencing are popular choices for defining outdoor spaces or property lines when a rustic look is desired.

Western Red Cedar Split Rail Fencing

Western Red Cedar Split Rail Fencing

Another nice, economical, and extremely durable type of fence made from Western Red Cedar and galvanized “hog wire” panels has gained a lot of popularity recently.  It is perfect for defining garden spaces.

Western Red Cedar and Galvanized Hog Wire Garden Fence

Unique and beautiful, this fence is constructed out of varying widths of Cedar boards and stained a beachy-white to compliment the landscape.

Western Red Cedar Fence Ideas

This amazing fence was built by our customer in California using Clear Western Red Cedar dimensional lumber.

custom clear western red cedar fence

Alaska Yellow Cedar Fence

Also extremely durable due it is natural properties, a fence constructed of Alaskan Yellow Cedar will provide many years of carefree service.  In these photos, Yellow Cedar boards are installed vertically to define this landscape.

Alaskan Yellow Cedar Boards used for fencing

Yellow Cypress landscape fence

In this backyard, a combination of 1×3″ and 1×6″Alaskan Yellow Cedar boards are installed vertically to create this outdoor living space.

Alaskan Yellow Cedar back yard privacy fence

Hardwoods Used as Fencing

When the highest quality and durability is wanted, hardwoods such as Red Balau “Mahogany” and Ipe “Ironwood”, can be a naturally beautiful fencing choice.

mahogany fence

5/4×6″ Mahogany Decking Boards are installed vertically between masonry columns

For more fence inspiration, please visit us on Pinterest! We’ve got lots of ideas waiting for you!

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

We ship nationwide!

Trending Now – Cedar Tongue and Groove Interior Paneling

Perfect for adding natural warmth to any room, Western Red Cedar tongue and groove (T&G) paneling is a trend that is being seen in new custom home construction, in commercial building, as well as in the remodeling market.   Easy to work with and high performing, Western Red Cedar helps designers and homeowners easily achieve an organic warmth in any room effortlessly.  Because Western Red Cedar is pitch and resin-free, it readily accepts almost any stain or finish, including bleaching products.

Clear grades of Western Red Cedar T&G paneling are prized for a consistent and clean appearance, as well as natural, rich color variation between boards.  With exceptional stability, clear Cedar T&G will add sophistication and warmth that no man-made product can provide.

Clear Grade Western Red Cedar Interior Accent Wall

Less expensive than clear Cedar, a quality Architect or “Tight Knot” Cedar tongue and groove product will have knots that remain tight and sound through the life of the product.   Knotty Cedar T&G paneling will provide unparalleled texture and helps create an open concept living space, especially when used on the interior ceiling and extended outside the home or office into the soffit areas.

Knotty Western Red Cedar T&G Ceiling Detail

If you are looking to bring the beauty and serenity of the great outdoors into your living space, be sure to read our DIY blog for installing Western Red Cedar tongue and groove paneling.  And before your next project, be sure to visit us!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA  98233

The craftsmanship on both of these stunning projects is by Impel Construction.  A highly respected and talented Stanwood / Camano Island and Methow Valley-based contracting firm. They specialize in modern-style home and commercial construction. 

Teepee Inspired Wedding Backdrop

A simple, yet beautiful, naked teepee makes a unique backdrop for a rustic country garden wedding.  Because it is easy to work with and light in weight, Western Red Cedar is ideal for constructing one.

Materials List

  • 6 ea 16′ 2×2″ Western Red Cedar
  • 1 ea 8 – 12″ Bungee Cord
  • 6 ea 6″ 60d Galvanized Nails
  • Tulle or Decorative Ribbon
  • Flowers and Greenery
  • Small bungee cords or florist tape to secure flowers

Tools Needed

  • Tape Measure
  • Cordless Drill
  • 1/2″ Drill Bit
  • Hammer

Measure down from each 2×2 about 18″ and drill a 1/2″ hole through the board.  Feed the bungee cording through the holes and secure using a good knot.

how to make a naked teepee for wedding backdrop

Next, drill an angled hole about 2″ up the other end of each 2×2.  These will be used to drive the 6″ nails through to secure the structure to the ground.

how to make a flower teepee for backdrop

Carefully wrap decorative tulle or ribbon around the bungee cord to cover.  Lift and place each 2×2 “leg” in a circular pattern.  Secure each leg with one of the 6″ nails.

metal stakes secure the 2x2 western red cedar tee pee to the ground

Now you’re ready to add flowers, greenery, and/or ribbons to decorate.  Using small bungee cords or florist tape works well.

rustic garden wedding backdrop teepee

flower tee pee how to

Congratulations to the new bride and groom!

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

http://www.CedarCountryLumber.com

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA  98233

Cedar Pergola for Camp Orkila

Prized for large outdoor structures, including pergolas, gazebos, and trellises, due to its workability and natural resistance to rot and decay, Western Red Cedar will provide years of carefree service.   It is also very lightweight, with unparalleled beauty.

Pergola made from Full, Rough Sawn Appearance Western Red Cedar

Recently, we were contacted by Bellingham Bay Builders to provide Full, Rough Sawn Appearance Western Red Cedar timbers for a structure they wanted to build for Camp Orkila.  Located on beautiful Orcas Island, Camp Orkila is committed to promoting healthy living and fostering social responsibility in our youth.

Please enjoy these photos of the crew constructing Camp Orkila’s new outdoor Western Red Cedar pergola.

Western Red Cedar is the ideal choice for outdoor structures

Red cedar beams being constructed into an outdoor pergola

Due to the natural properties of Western Red Cedar, fasteners should be corrosion resistant.  We recommend using stainless steel, aluminum, or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners when installing Western Red Cedar.

Western Red Cedar Timbers being constructed into a beautiful pergola

Full, Rough Sawn Appearance Western Red Cedar Timbers

Western Red Cedar PergolaPhotos and craftsmanship by Bellingham Bay Builders

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!  We ship nationwide and provide delivery Skagit, Island, Whatcom, and San Juan counties; and beyond!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA 98233

360.757.6343

Why Your Custom Home Deserves High Quality Western Red Cedar

When it comes to choosing building materials for a remodel or your new custom home, it is hard to beat the natural beauty, versatility, and reliability of Western Red Cedar.

Available in many different grades, Western Red Cedar can be used to customize your home’s exterior with a wide variety of siding patterns, shingles and shakes, as well trim and soffit materials.   Because it is pitch and resin-free, it is able to accept a wide range of finishes, from semi-transparent stains that allow the natural wood beauty to shine through to darker stains that show the character (or add a “beachy feel”), as well as traditional solid colors.  No matter your unique style, you can be sure when you choose Western Red Cedar, you will be able to create the custom look for your home that is just right for you.

Please enjoy these photos of two custom homes in Anacortes, WA, that we supplied all the exterior Western Red Cedar for.  Each house was designed and built by different custom home builders; however, both homeowners choose similar cedar products, including custom stained Western Red Cedar shingles as exterior cladding with painted Cedar trim.  By choosing totally different stains for the cedar shingles, along with the other unique details of each home, including the Western Red Cedar fences, you can see how versatile and beautiful Western Red Cedar truly is.

Custom Cedar Fences and Stained Western Red Cedar Shingles

Western Red Cedar shingles used as exterior cladding and custom cedar fencing

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

 

Ninzan Studio Alaskan Yellow Cedar Gate

Prized for its workability and cool yellow tone, Alaskan Yellow Cedar (also known as Alaskan Cypress or Pacific Coast Cypress), has the same insect, rot and decay repelling tannins and oils as Western Red Cedar, but is heavier and denser, which gives it more strength.  This rare and remarkably beautiful softwood is only grown in the Pacific coast region of North America but is not a true “Cedar” species.

Located in Sarasota, Florida, our Instagram friends at Ninzan Studio were contracted recently to construct and install gates to match an existing fence made from Alaska Yellow Cedar.  When they were unable to find the products they needed in their local market, they contacted us to help them with their project.   We shipped them the materials they needed and combined with their superior craftsmanship; the new gates turned out beautifully!

Ninzan Studio makes a custom gate out of Alaskan Yellow Cedar, which is also called Pacific Coast Cypress

Clear, Alaskan Yellow Cedar is milled into pickets for a custom gate in Florida

Alaskan Yellow Cedar custom gates in Sarasota Florida

Clear, Alaskan Yellow Cedar custom cut gate pickets

Yellow Cedar Custom Gate

If you are on Instagram, be sure to give Ninzan Studio a follow!  And, before your next project, be sure to visit us!  We supply superior quality Western Red Cedar, Alaskan Yellow Cedar, and Douglas Fir building materials to homeowners and contractors nationwide at very competitive rates!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA  98233

Azek and Timbertech Decking

While we have access to numerous brands and manufacturers of non-wood decking, we have found TimberTech and AZEK to be among our favorite choices.  Both companies provide excellent products combined with consumer support and warranties our customers can count on.

Grey Timbertech decking provides years of carefree service

photo and craftsmanship by Soundecks of Anacortes, WA

Capped wood composite: TimberTech®

Made of plastic and wood fibers that are then coated with a composite cap on all four sides, TimberTech decking boards are protected from moisture that seeps into the bottom side, unlike our competition’s products.  TimberTech decking is resistant to the elements and provides added durability, mold, and mildew resistance, as well as a splinter-free surface. A practical choice for discerning homeowners, it comes in a variety of colors and grains, retaining the look and feel of traditional hardwood without the annual sealing and staining needed for protection.

Capped polymer: AZEK®

With an enhanced real-wood look and strength backed by Alloy Armour Technology™, AZEK’s capped polymer decking materials are top of the line in quality and beauty. AZEK’s teams of scientists and designers have engineered high-performance decking materials that withstand the test of time and nature with unparalleled beauty.  And, you’ll be able to forget the drudgery of staining your deck forever.  With many colors available, from hand-scraped classics to understated grains, AZEK has the one that is just right for you.  AZEK decks artfully blend science and style to create beautiful, long-lasting outdoor spaces.

Azek Decking in Brown

craftsmanship and photo by Skagit Custom Decks of Anacortes, WA

Decking Materials Comparison

**Approximate initial upfront cost is an estimate based on the average deck size of 320 square feet and includes all materials and labor**COST COMPARISON BETWEEN WOOD AND COMPOSITE DECKING                   Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

As your preferred AZEK and Timbertech dealer, we provide delivery within NW Washington for a nominal fee.  That includes Anacortes, Burlington, Mount Vernon, Concrete, Bellingham, Ferndale, Arlington, Camano Island, Stanwood, Oak Harbor, Coupeville, Freeland, Snohomish, and King County, the San Juan Islands, and beyond!

azek decking delivered in skagit, island, whatcom, snohomish counties, as well as the san juan islands

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

360.757.6343

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Horizontal Western Red Cedar Privacy Fence

Built using our 5/4×6″ Knotty Western Red Cedar Radius Edge Decking, this fence will provide years of carefree service while creating privacy for this residence in Encinitas, CA.

5/4x6" Knotty Western Red Cedar Decking used as privacy fencing

Installed horizontally on 4×4″ Pressure Treated posts using stainless steel fasteners on both sides of the post, this fence is attractive from inside, as well as curbside.  Because of Western Red Cedar’s natural properties, always use stainless steel or coated fasteners recommended for use with Western Red Cedar.

Please enjoy these beautiful Western Red Cedar Fence photos from sunny California.

Cedar Deck Boards are installed over 4x4 pressure treated posts to create a beautiful privacy fence

Q: You might be wondering why a retailer from Washington state is sending Western Red Cedar lumber to California.  Wouldn’t it just be easier for the contractor to purchase the cedar building materials from his local lumber yard?

A:  Because Cedar Country Lumber is located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, the ONLY place where Western Red Cedar grows, we are able to supply homeowners and contractors nationwide with superior quality Western Red Cedar at extremely competitive rates.   Anytime Western Red Cedar is purchased outside its growing region; freight will always be factored in the final cost of the product.  Additionally, because the supply is more plentiful in our area, we are able to source more Western Red Cedar building materials, especially oversized or extreme length Western Red Cedar lumber.

Because Western Red Cedar is only grown in the Pacific Northwest, cedar building materials are plentiful including the 5/4x6" decking used to create this privacy fence

If you are looking for other ideas for your Fence, we invite you to check our Pinterest board on the subject by clicking HERE (no login or account required).

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

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Local 360.757.6343      Toll Fee 866.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA 98233