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Why
Cedar?
It's durable and strong - Western Red Cedar is lightweight but stable
and is less likely to crack and warp than even treated lumber. Western Red
Cedar contains oils that act as preservatives to deter insect attack and
decay. This same oil gives cedar it's distinctive smell.
It stays cool -
Western Red Cedar doesn't absorb much heat, so even on very hot days, your
cedar furniture will stay cool.
It's a superior
alternative - Western Red Cedar looks better than plastic or resin, and
is a far superior, non-toxic alternative to chemically treated wood. These
wood products, often referred to as pressure-treated, are soaked in chemical
preservatives and require warning labels for anyone handling them.
It's a renewable
resource - The Western Red Cedar we use is grown in managed forests
subject to controlled harvests and reforestation programs.
Finishing
- Natural -
Cedar furniture does not need to be finished. If allowed to age outdoors
without finish, the wood grain will raise slightly and the wood will
weather to a light silver-grey with darker streaks.
- Water Sealer
- If you'd like to maintain the gold colour of your cedar piece, you can
apply a water sealer to protect the wood from water and sun. You may need
to re-apply ever year or so depending on the location of your shed, and
the area where you live.
- Stain - You
can change the colour of the cedar with an exterior stain, with a UV
inhibitor. And just like the water sealer, you may need to re-apply every
year or so.
- Oil - Teak
or linseed oil can be rubbed over the wood to deepen the colour and
slow-down the aging process by repelling water.
- Paint -
Paint on furniture exposed to the outdoors will eventually blister and
peel. If you want to add colour to your piece, stain is a much better
alternative to paint.
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