Western Red Cedar We only use the finest PEFC certified Western Red Cedar, which we source from British Columbia, Canada.
A beautiful and naturally durable wood, that ensures not only an attractive appearance but also a long-lasting Greenhouse that can withstand the test of time and varying weather conditions.
What makes Cedar unique, unlike other types of wood, is its ability to absorb moisture to attain equilibrium with the surrounding atmosphere. What this means is as a result, the moisture can track to the inside of the structure particularly in the areas that are subject to the greatest weathering, the first stage is the darkening of the wood as water soluble extractives are drawn to the surface which will dry and often leaves a mark where the extractives have been released.
These extractives are the oils naturally present in the Cedar that make it resistant to rot.
As the wood weathers, it gradually changes colour turning a beautiful shade of grey, becoming impermeable in the process. This greying may not occur at the same rate on the internal faces of the structure.
In simple terms, this means when Cedar is first exposed to the elements, it absorbs and releases water. This process gradually reduces over time until reaching a static point of no reaction. At this point, the material is said to have reached equilibrium with the humidity and temperature of the surrounding environment.
Should you wish to minimise the initial stage of darkening and extractive staining, a Cedar specific UV protection oil can be applied which will slow down the colour changing process.
However, most people do prefer the natural weathered appearance and choose not to treat the structure. Given the long life of Cedar, which consistently outlasts other wood species, structures are expected to last between 15 and 30 years.
Depending on how well cared for, your Cedar Greenhouse may last for many years beyond this.
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