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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In addition to the housing shortage, with people staying home more, the desire for outdoor living spaces, home offices, and general home improvement projects is on many people’s minds. Throughout the U.S. and Canada, lumber mills and building material manufacturers are having a hard time keeping up with the demand for home construction products. As usual, when supply becomes low, pricing goes up. This is especially true on DIY products such as fencing, decking, and pressure-treated lumber. We are also hearing from consumers outside the Pacific Northwest that Western Red Cedar products are very scarce, with no clear projections on when they will be available. We understand that this has created an unusual situation, and it can be frustrating when consumers are not able to secure the products they need and/or at the prices they may have budgeted for. At this time, we expect prices to remain high through the end of 2020 but expect supply and trucking issues to improve.
Over the years, we have developed deep relationships with lumber mills specializing in Western Red Cedar, Alaska Yellow Cedar and Douglas Fir building material production, so we have many sources we can pull from to help you get the products you want and need, as timely as possible, at absolutely the best prices we can offer. Rest assured, our team of professionals are doing their very best to support you and provide quotes, fill orders and get them out to the job site to help keep your project on schedule, to the absolute best of our ability. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we all work though this together.
Inherently resistant to moisture, decay, and insect damage, AbsoluteTrimTM is manufactured from high-quality knotty Western Red Cedar that is kiln-dried, finger-jointed, and then double coated with latex primer that is designed specifically for use on Western Red Cedar. With a 30-year limited warranty against rot and manufacturer defects, this a trim product you can feel good about.
AbsoluteTrim is available in 16’ or 20’ lengths in the following dimensions
Thickness x
2”
3”
4”
6”
8”
10”
12”
1″
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
5/4″
no
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
2″
Yes
no
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
AsoluteTrim is manufactured from natural Western Red Cedar and must be finished with two coats of paint within 60 days of installation. Before installation, ends should be trimmed, and all field cuts resealed with primer to make joints less visible and for the paint to adhere properly. If a blemish-free appearance is desired, fill knots with putty and re-prime before painting. For complete storage, installation, and painting recommendations, please download the document AbsoluteTrim_Installation
AbsoluteTrim is a natural wood product. Warranty does not cover natural occurrences such as extractive bleed, variations in grain, color or knots, pitch pockets, or mineral streaks. For more information on AbsoluteTrim’s limited warranty, download the AbsoluteTrim_Warranty
Before your next project, be sure to visit us! We ship nationwide!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Historically used to side barns and other outbuildings, Board and Batten is a popular siding choice when a classic “farmhouse” look is desired. Created by installing narrow boards over wider boards to create a layered effect, Board and Batten siding can be created with endless combinations of board widths.
craftsmanship by Keystone Building Services of Anacortes, WA
The cost of Board and Batten (also called board and batt) siding can vary a great deal depending on the materials chosen. The most frequent size of boards chosen for Western Red Cedar Board and Batten siding are 1×10” or 1×12” boards combined with 1×3” battens. Knotty, unseasoned boards are often used when a rustic look is desired, which can be a real money saver over using clear Western Red Cedar. Unless there is a desire to finish the siding right away, using “unseasoned” or “green” boards and allowing them to weather in place will also be less expensive than using kiln-dried boards.
craftsmanship by Keystone Building Services of Anacortes, WA
If the siding is to be stained or painted right away, using air-dried or kiln-dried boards in either knotty or clear grades is recommended. If desired, we can arrange to have your Western Red Cedar pre-stained or pre-primed with almost any product available on the market. Your siding will arrive on the job site, ready to install.
When installing your Board and Batten siding, boards that are 6” wide or more should be fixed with one nail through the center of the board. For wider boards, it is recommended that two nails are used to attach the boards with the nails spaced 2-1/2” to 3” apart. Corrosive-resistant, ring shank nails are recommended for installing Western Red Cedar. If installing your Board and Batten vertically or diagonally, it is important that furring strips are installed to attach the boards to.
installation graphic provided courtesy of the WRCLA
To save time and money, especially on installation, some folks opt to have False Board and Batten siding, which is created by installing sheets of plywood, then attaching battens every 10 – 12” while also covering the seams between the sheets of plywood. This is a popular way of creating Board and Batt for interiors.
Our team of Cedar experts is here to help you achieve the look of your dreams on the exterior of your home, so before your next project, be sure to visit us!
Local delivery services available, and we also ship our products nationwide!
Western Red Cedar channel siding is a popular type of lap siding that provides excellent weather protection, especially in areas where the moisture levels change with the season. The profile of each piece of channel siding overlaps the next piece partially, thus creating a deep, recessed channel effect.
Channel siding is readily available in knotty grades of Western Red Cedar with a rough sawn, textured face in the following dimensions
1×6” unseasoned or kiln-dried
1×8” unseasoned or kiln-dried
1×10” unseasoned
*Please note-the dimension described is not the finished or “dressed” size after the channel is milled, but refers to the size of board that the piece of channel is used to create the pattern*
This diagram provided courtesy of the WRCLA
Other dimensions of Channel Cladding, as well as clear cedar grades or other species of wood, are available by special order. In these next two photos, we worked with a specialty mill to have a true 1″ thick channel siding pattern created out of knotty Western Red Cedar for a customer in North Carolina.
Here is a beautiful example of custom milled, clear-grade Alaska Yellow Cedar Channel Siding we recently supplied a customer in the Seattle area.
Channel siding can be installed horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Be sure to allow a 1/8” expansion gap between the pieces and do not nail through the overlaps. One nail through the face is sufficient for channel siding that is 6” or less. For profiles over 6”, two nails should be installed through the face, keeping nails 2-1/2” to 3” apart to allow for movement without splitting.
This diagram is provided courtesy of the WRCLA.
When installing channel siding horizontally, start at the bottom and work up. For vertical or diagonal applications, the siding should be nailed to blocking or furring strips as needed to ensure that the nail penetrates solid wood. Stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant ring shank nails are recommended to hold the siding in place.
To learn more about other popular wood siding profiles, please visit our blog on that subject by clicking HERE, and before your next project, be sure to visit us! We ship nationwide!
Grown only in the Pacific Northwest from Alaska south to Oregon, and west of the Coast Mountains, where cooler temperatures and abundant year-round precipitation is found, Alaska Yellow Cedar is a highly prized and sought-after building material choice. Yellow Cedar lumber can be difficult to find outside the growing region, as supply is limited.
Because we are located in the heart of cedar country, where both Alaska Yellow Cedar and Western Red Cedar are natively grown, we can source top-quality Cedar lumber for indoor and outdoor construction projects. If we don’t stock what you are looking for, chances are we have a relationship with a mill that can make it for you. With shipments of specialty building materials leaving our warehouse daily to all over the US, our customers value the quality of our products and honest business practices, combined with excellent customer service and superior product knowledge.
We recently shipped a custom milled package of surfaced, knotty Alaska Yellow Cedar lumber to New Jersey for this stunning deck and railing crafted by Paradise Knoll Builders of Oakland, NJ.
“Thanks for the awesome lumber you sent us Michele. The job turned out great. People love it.”
“Thanks and thanks again for your seamless delivery of some very nice lumber.” – Steven Del Colliano. Pres. ~ Paradise Knoll Builders, LLC
Before your next project, be sure to visit us! We ship direct from the Pacific Northwest to homeowners and contractors nationwide!
