Category Archives: Do-It-Yourself Projects

How to on do-it-yourself projects using building materials offered by Cedar Country

Properly Storing Your Western Red Cedar Lumber and Other Building Materials

Congratulations on the next step in your project!  Now that you have selected your materials and they have arrived at your job site, the very first step is to inspect everything to be sure you have received the correct products and they are free from any defects or damage. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.

Western Red Cedar timbers being assembled for a job site delivery by Cedar Country Lumber

If you will not be installing your building material products right away, it is imperative that they are stored properly, otherwise they can be damaged quite quickly by moisture, humidity, temperature, sunlight, and job site dirt. Any materials that are intended to be installed indoors, need to get out of elements as quickly as possible. Building materials that will be installed outdoors, can remain outside for a short time as long as they are stored properly out of direct sunlight.

Starting from the bottom, your stack of lumber or other building materials should never be stored directly on the ground for any length of time, so be sure to elevate them by placing pieces of scrap lumber or pallets underneath. Should you be storing your lumber over damp ground or freshly poured concrete, you must also put a moisture barrier down. Cedar siding or other “dry” building materials should be kept between 4 to 6” above the ground. Be sure that your pile is laying completely flat.

If large pieces of lumber are strapped together and you will be using them with in a short time period, go ahead and keep them banded together for stability. This is especially helpful when storing pressure treated lumber, as it has a tendency to twist and warp quite quickly when stored outdoors. Items like cedar siding and trim, should be separated and stacked on vertically aligned stickers to allow for airflow and to acclimate before installation.  

Next, cover your building materials with a waterproof tarp or plastic, but not too tightly. You do want to allow some airflow.  To help prevent cupping and to hold down your tarp, you may want to put weights on your lumber pile. Having a peak or covering your pile with a tent in case of rain is also a good idea. Should any of your building materials become wet on the job site, they should be separated and allowed to dry thoroughly before installation.

Following these tips for short-term storage of your Western Red Cedar and other building materials will help your job go a lot smoother, as well as save you time and money!

360.757.6343

www.ccLumber.com

Gypsy Wagon Restoration

Also known as a Gypsy Wagon, or quite simply a living wagon, a vardo was a horse-drawn wagon used by British Romanichal Travels as their home during the mid-1800s. Vardos were highly decorated, intricately carved, and painted and were viewed as woodworking masterpieces.

Starting with a vintage Gypsy Wagon chassis, our customer has been in the process of creating this vardo using our clear Western Red Cedar. Due to its lightweight, ease of workability, and availability, Western Red Cedar is a popular choice for mobile buildings, wagons, and the like.

Please enjoy these in-progress photos and be sure to check back for updates! They will be outfitting the interior of the vardo much like it was done back in the 1800s with heavy fabrics and great attention to detail.

Vintage Covered Wagon Restoration
The interior of the vardo will be outfitted with luxury fabrics and other fine details
A horse drawn Gypsy Wagon made from high quality clear Western Red Cedar

Before your next project, be sure to visit us! We ship our specialty building materials to homeowner and contractors nationwide!

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA 98233

http://www.cedarcountrylumber.com

Best Wood for Your Sauna

You guessed it: Western Red Cedar

Due to the phenols and other natural properties of Western Red Cedar against rot and decay, it is great for use in damp areas, including bathrooms and saunas. It is also very flexible and resists warping under heat and humidity. Because it is a low-density wood, it is a great insulator and heats quickly. And, it smells great!

Clear Western Red Cedar is the ideal wood choice for use in saunas

Pro tips:

Because your sauna will reach high temperatures and cool off when not in use, the Cedar will expand and contract a great deal. To reduce the chance of cupping, we recommend using narrower dimensions of materials, such as a 4” tongue and groove (T&G) product for the walls for optimum stability.  And while knotty grades are easier on the pocketbook, we recommend using clear grades of materials, as the knots tend to heat up faster and get hotter and may become uncomfortable to the touch. 

When shopping for your materials, keep in mind, that because a sauna is generally a small space, shorter lengths of materials can be used and sometimes come with a discounted price.

Narrower dimensions of Western Red Cedar is our recommendation for using in saunas to reduce cupping and warping

Special “Thanks” for Michael S from Arizona for sharing these gorgeous photos of the Western Red Cedar sauna he built using materials he purchased from us.

We ship nationwide!

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

Create Privacy and Define Your Outdoor Living Space

Arbors, trellises and living fences are organic, beautiful ways to define outdoor living spaces, as well as create visual interest. Combined with natural plants, these defining elements create and support ecological diversity by serving as habitats for insects, birds and other small animals. On sloped properties, these structures and their plants can also help immensely with erosion control. 

While there are many building materials that arbors, trellises, and fence framework can be made from, Western Red Cedar is an especially popular and eco-friendly choice. Naturally resistant to rot and decay, Western Red Cedar requires no additional treatment to preserve the wood, so there is no need to worry about chemicals seeping into the surrounding soil. Sourced from renewable resources, it is lightweight and easy to work with, and completely recyclable at the end of its useful life.

In addition to defining an outdoor space, a living fence can also add privacy, as well as wind block. In these photos, our customer used our clear Western Red Cedar 2×2″s to create a gridwork for ivy to grown on. While it will take a little bit to get this privacy fence covered in ivy, it is an exceptionally pretty structure to look at in the meantime.

Clear Western Red Cedar 2x2" are used as framework for a eco-friendly living fence
Living privacy fence made from naturally rot resistant Western Red Cedar frame work

In this photo, a large backyard is defined into a cozy outdoor living space with a network of Western Red Cedar arbors and tumbling evergreen clematis and wisteria vines, string lighting, and horizontally installed fencing.

Looking for more outdoor living inspiration?

We’ve got lots of ideas on Pinterest!

We ship nationwide

360.757.6343

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA 98233

Building a Good Neighbor Fence

Everybody knows that a fence makes a good neighbor, but do you know what makes a GREAT neighbor? A well thought out and properly constructed fence that looks good from the inside, as well as outside. This type of fence is a win-win for the whole neighborhood. 

Made from high-quality clear C&Btr Western Red Cedar lumber we supplied, this stunning fence looks great from any angle. Individual dimensional Cedar boards are attached to thicker Cedar boards both on the bottom and top to form a “panel”, then the panels are installed between top quality clear Western Red Cedar posts. With some fine craftsmanship, custom latticework was created just on the backyard area of the fence to add interest and extra height to keep critters in.

A good neighbor fence created from our Clear C&Btr Western Red Cedar dimensional boards
Clear Western Red Cedar crafted privacy fence makes the whole neighborhood happy

With this modern design, our 5/4×6” knotty grade Western Red Cedar decking is installed horizontally on both sides of the 4×4″ posts that have been firmly anchored in the ground. Not only does it add curb appeal and privacy, this type of “good neighbor” fence is less likely to blow down, since the gaps between boards allow the wind to pass through.

Knotty Western Red Cedar decking is installed horizontally on top of 4x4 posts to create a beautiful good neighbor fence

This lovely fence is constructed out of our 5/4×6” Red Balau “Mahogany” decking. While it is a little more costly initially than Western Red Cedar lumber, it won’t break the bank either, and will last for many, many years to come. Due to the durability and strength of the Mahogany, no additional rails or supports are needed between fence posts to attach the hardwood to. This fence will be sag free, with little to no maintenance ever needed.

5/4x6" Mahogany Decking is used for an extremely durable good neighbor fence that will last for many years with little to no maintenance

Take a look at this example of two homeowner’s unique ideas for making a good neighbor fences out of different types of Western Red Cedar lumber on their property. Both look great and express the individual style of the homeowner, while not competing for attention.

Examples of Western Red Cedar fences

We’ve got lots more good neighbor fence inspiration just waiting for you over on Pinterest!

Before your next project, be sure to visit us! We ship to homeowners and contractors nationwide, with local delivery available in the north Puget Sound region.

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

http://www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Trending Now – Natural Wood Ceilings

Looking to add instant warmth and charm to your home’s interior?  Wood ceilings are trending now!  Wood ceilings instantly add warmth and charm that just can’t be duplicated with man-made products.

No matter what architectural style appeals to you, natural wood will instantly warm up modern contemporary or minimalist spaces, add character and interest to commercial buildings, provide texture or cool elegance to one room or the whole house. With so many varieties of wood to choose from, as well as installation options (not to mention finishes!), wood ceilings are here to stay.

In these photos, Knotty Western Red Cedar T&G is used throughout this custom home’s interior and exterior soffits to create a cohesive space and a smooth transition from inside to out.  Craftsmanship by RGN Construction, photos by Swift Studios.

Knotty Western Red Cedar installed as interior ceiling and exterior soffit

Knotty Western Red Cedar ceiling detail adds warmth to this modern contemporary home

In what can be a somewhat “cool” or un-personal space, the knotty Western Red Cedar boards installed on the ceiling of this car dealership add natural warmth. Photo and craftsmanship by Trico Construction.

Knotty Western Red Cedar installed on the ceiling of this car dealership adds warmth to an otherwise cool space

Popular as well, Douglas Fir T&G has different color variations than Cedar and adds a nice rustic touch.  Photo and craftsmanship by Yonkman Construction.

Douglas Fir T&G used as ceiling detail

In these photos, clear Western Red Cedar T&G with all its beautiful color variations add elegance to this recently completed sunroom by our customer, Dave. For tips on installing cedar T&G paneling, please visit our blog post on that subject by clicking HERE.

Clear Western Red Cedar ceiling detail

With all the natural color variations of Western Red Cedar, when installed on the ceiling brings warmth to any space

Due to its lightweight, as well as work-ability, natural wood in either Cedar or Pine is a perfect choice for both ceilings and walls in mobile buildings, such as this tiny home on wheels that was built by Hope Island Cottages.

Due to its lightweight and work ability, Western Red Cedar is an ideal choice for ceilings, as well as walls in tiny mobile buildings

Western Red Cedar is a great choice for high humidity areas, such as bathrooms

With so many beautiful options, we can help you find the one that is just right for you and your unique style.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us. We provide local delivery, as well as ship nationwide!

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

www.cclumber.com

Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles

Looking to add natural wood warmth to an existing concrete patio or turn a flat roof into a beautiful new outdoor living space? Our KAYU® Tropical Deck Tiles™ can be installed over any relatively flat surface, including over grass or bare ground. Perfect for porches, patios, gardens, docks, or around the spa.

Easy to install, our Mahogany Deck Tiles are perfect around pools and spas

Constructed from KAYU®-Batu™ “mahogany” that is sustainably harvested from well-managed forests in Malaysia, this natural wood is a rich dark red/brown color. Extremely dense and beautiful, it is an exotic hardwood that is also naturally resistant to rot and decay.

Easily transform a plain space into a stunning new area to enjoy without any special tools or skills.

These deck tiles have an interlocking design base for easy “Do-It-Yourself” installation; using the DeckWise® Deck Tile System, you can attach tiles together easily. No messy glue, no nails, no staples. There will be a perfect match and precision spacing between every tile, every time, guaranteed. Since the deck tiles are made from kiln-dried Red Batu mahogany, there is no need to acclimate the tiles; they are ready to use right out of the box.

Mahogany Tropical Deck Tiles come ready to install

Our KAYU Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles can be installed in a straight direction or turned to create any pattern creating a warm and unique living space, as the interlocking tabs on all four sides ensure simple DIY installation.

Boat Deck tiles 2

Because of the natural rot and resistance of the wood, these tiles are perfect for use around docks, spas, and pools.

Available Deck Tile Sizes:

  • 20″ X 20″
  • 24″ X 24″
  • 40″ X 40″

Design your new space by sketching the layout on paper or physically placing the tiles in position on the area that you plan to install the tiles. Easily create unique patterns, designs, and borders by aligning the tiles in different directions. Next, remove the tiles and be sure the area that they will be installed in is clean and free from debris. If installing the tiles over lawn or dirt, lay down a good quality weed barrier to inhibit growth up through the tiles.

Our KAYU Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles are pre-drilled to attach the connectors to the tiles easily. Each tile connector comes with 4 ribbed clips already inserted for quickly snapping into the tile fastener holes.  Every connector also comes with 4 molded score lines for easily cutting and trimming with a utility knife to go around decking edges, corners, or any other obstacle. A handsaw, jigsaw, or power saw will be necessary to cut any tiles to fit around pipes or to adjust the tile size to fit in the space. For full installation instructions, including photos, please download the installation guide Mahogany Deck Tile Installation Guide.

To maintain the KAYU Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles rich color, we recommend applying a good quality deck oil that is formulated for hardwood decking, such as Penofin Hardwood Oil, at appropriate intervals to maintain the rich color. Or, if preferred, the tiles can be left to weather to a soft silver-grey. Either way, the tiles will remain smooth and splinter-free and will perform admirably for many years.

Just as you would with any deck, routine cleaning with a broom, blower, or garden hose is recommended, and periodic power washing is advised.

Red Batu Mahogany deck tiles and siding

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!  We’ve got lots of quality decking products, including the one that is just right for you and your budget!

We ship nationwide!

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Azek & TimberTech Decking

Since we opened our doors, we have been pleased to offer our customers the full line of TimberTech decking products as our main composite decking.  When AZEK’s revolutionary line of capped polymer decking hit the market, we added that to our main decking product line up and couldn’t have been happier when they joined forces.  Throughout the Puget Sound region, many homeowners have been enjoying their TimberTech and Azek decks, whether installed by a professional or by themselves, supplied by Cedar Country Lumber.  Over the years, these decking products have stood the test of time.

TimberTech Decking

craftsmanship and photo by Soundecks of Anacortes

Interested in learning about the pros and cons of composite decking, cellular PVC, capped polymer, and other manufactured decking products?  This article in Architect Magazine provides a great third-party report. And no matter what manufactured decking product you decide to use, keep in mind these wise words by Tom Gramlich of TimberTech, “Saying all deck boards are the same is like saying all cars are the same, a Chevette isn’t a Mercedes.” In short, you get what you pay for.

Interesting in estimating what a new TimberTech or Azek deck might cost? Check out TimberTeck’s Decking Cost Calculator. The value of enjoying your new outdoor living space? Well, that’s priceless.

Truly the best of the best in decking, AZEK capped polymer boards feature sophisticated, natural-looking colors with a subtle wire-brushed, low-gloss finish for an authentic wood look. With the most powerful core and cap technology in the industry, this cellular PVC decking makes it easy to transform your outdoor living space into a masterpiece. Available in six stunning colors, including “Mahogany,” as seen in these photos provided by a happy customer of ours in Anacortes.

Azek decking dealer in Skagit County

Azek and TimberTech decking

compare composite and PVC decking

Give us a ring to learn more about this product line, as well as other decking options. We appreciate your support!

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Your Next Outdoor Project:  Why Hiring a Contractor Might be Your Best Bet

Drive through almost any neighborhood these days, and you’ll see that outdoor living is on the top of everyone’s minds.  From simple decks to massive outdoor structures, including patio covers and pergolas, with so many options in materials, as well as installation methods and tools needed to get the job done right, hiring a contractor might just be your best bet.  And money well spent.

Western Red Cedar Patio Cover

Here are some reasons to think about getting some professional help with your next outdoor project:

Design – while Pinterest and magazines have many pictures of beautiful outdoor living spaces, will it actually work in your yard?  A professional can help you design a space that will work well with your property’s size while taking things into consideration, such as the natural slope and other factors, and make recommendations that can turn a basic deck or outdoor living room into a masterpiece.

Custom Pergola made from Azek PVC materials

design, craftsmanship, and photo by Skagit Custom Decks

Engineering and Complexity – Each outdoor project is as unique as the person dreaming about it, and each project brings its own set of things that need to be considered, such as weight-bearing requirements (for example, if a hot tub will be placed on your new deck), electrical needs, and attachment points.  If a new deck or pergola will be attached to any existing structures, an expert knows how to properly attach a ledger board to your home’s exterior to ensure both your new structure, and your home, are safely connected and protected.

Mahogany decking and outdoor fire place

design, craftsmanship, and photo by Washington Deck and Fence

Material Selection – with so many options from natural wood to composites and other manufactured decking projects, stainless steel, and more, a professional has spent the time researching and working with a variety of materials and can help you select the ones that will work best for your project and budget.  With tons of experience, they know how to correctly purchase the right amount of materials from the best suppliers with the best support.

Western Red Cedar Pergola Materials

design, craftsmanship, and photo by Hillman’s Tranquil Hardscapes

Permitting – a professional has the experience and will be able to interpret your city, county, and state building codes, as well as navigate the permitting process seamlessly.   This expertise can help save you lots of time and money.

Hiring a Contractor for Outdoor Living Projects

design, craftsmanship, and photo by Minnesota Pergolas

How to find a good contractor?  Always check to make sure anyone who will be doing work on your property is properly licensed and bonded.  Your local building association is a great resource to find one in your area who is experienced in the type of project you want, and you can always be assured that they are properly licensed and bonded, as that is a requirement of membership.  For help in Skagit and Island Counties, please visit www.Sicba.org for assistance.  Outside our area, you can search the database of the National Association of Home Builders to find your local association by simply entering your zip code.

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

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

360.757.6343

Cleaning Your Cedar Deck

Like all products that are exposed to the outdoors, a deck top of Cedar (as well as any other wood or manufactured decking) will become dirty and require some routine maintenance.   A deck that is kept free of dirt and debris, both on the deck surface as well as underneath to allow airflow, will last longer and look better.

Annually, your deck should be inspected thoroughly and cleaned for optimum results, whether you plan on re-staining it or allowing it to go naturally grey.

Start by giving your Cedar deck a good sweeping and remove any leaves or other debris underneath the deck.  Depending on how dirty the deck is, you can use a pressure washer fitted with a fan tip to loosen any stuck-on dirt if needed.  Be sure to set the pressure to around 500 psi to 600 pounds per square inch (psi); any higher could cause the grain to come up or cause damage to the decking boards.

While there are many deck cleaners available on the market, we have found a solution of warm water, TSP (trisodium phosphate), and a small amount of bleach (or powdered oxygen bleach like Oxiclean) to work really well and be very cost-effective.  Spray the solution on with an inexpensive garden sprayer, let sit about 5 minutes, scrub with a soft bristle cleaning brush where needed, and then rinse with thoroughly water.  This should bring the Cedar deck top back to almost new condition.  For help with specific problems or stains, check out our blog on those by clicking HERE.

We supplied the Clear, Western Red Cedar decking for this project a little over a year ago.  Our customer just recently gave it an annual good cleaning, and as you can see, the deck top is brought back to “like new” condition.

How to clean cedar deck

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

We ship nationwide!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com