Douglas Fir Vs Cedar: Head-to-Head Comparison

Choosing the right wood can make or break your project. Douglas fir and cedar are two top contenders, each offering unique strengths.

Whether you’re building a sturdy frame, crafting outdoor furniture, or adding a rustic touch to your home, these woods bring something special to the table.

But which one is the better fit for your needs? From durability to aesthetics, we’ll break down the key differences to help you decide.

Let’s dive into the battle of Douglas fir vs cedar to find the perfect match for your project.

What is Douglas Fir?

Douglas fir, Pseudotsuga menziesii, is an evergreen coniferous softwood most commonly found in the pacific west. It resembles a pine tree, but is known as a fir. Fir is the most common softwood in North America.

Types

The Douglas fir is a member of the fir family, which includes dozens of other wood species, such as the Balsam fir, Korean fir, white fir, and noble fir.

However, the douglas fir is further split into two species; the coast Douglas fir and Rocky Mountain Douglas fir. The two species are characterized by different habitats, growth rates, and physical properties.

Properties

Douglas fir has yellowish-white sapwood and an orange-red to reddish-brown heartwood, comparable to redwood.

Latewood is darker than early wood. It has a straight grain pattern, is highly workable, and has negligible dimensional movement.

Often, homeowners prefer Douglas fir as one of the best wood for painted cabinet doors because of its smooth and even surface. If you want to neutralize it’s color, here is how to tone down red in douglas fir.

What is Cedarwood?

Cedrus, common as cedar, is a member of the Pinaceae family of coniferous softwoods. It’s native to the mountains of the western Himalayas and the Mediterranean region. So, it’s also readily available in most local lumber yards.

Is cedar soft or hardwood? Read on.

Types

There are more than a dozen cedarwood species. However, the most common ones are the western red cedar, Alaskan yellow cedar, eastern red cedar, and northern white cedar. Other species are the Himalayan cedar, Atlas cedar, and Chinese cedar.

Properties

Cedar is one of America’s most durable softwoods. It lasts decades and even centuries with good maintenance, when you add additional sealer like painting cedar wood furniture.

The colors vary from one cedar species to the next. For instance, the western red cedar is soft, red-brown lumber with tight, straight grains and few knots.

Douglas Fir Vs Western Red Cedar: Head-to-Head Comparison

The following is a comparison of Douglas fir versus western red pine based on selected critical factors;

Douglas Fir Vs Cedar: Appearance/color

Douglas fir and cedar differ significantly in appearance. Douglas fir has a warm, reddish-brown tone with a straight, uniform grain.

Its smooth surface often includes darker growth rings, adding a subtle contrast to its look. This makes it a popular choice for clean, modern designs.

Cedar, on the other hand, has a lighter, reddish-brown hue with noticeable variations. Its grain is more irregular, creating a rustic and natural aesthetic.

Over time, cedar weathers to a silvery-gray patina when exposed to the elements, which many find appealing for outdoor use.

Both woods are visually striking, but their distinct colors and grain patterns suit different styles. Douglas fir leans modern, while cedar exudes a natural, rustic charm.

Douglas Fir Versus Cedar: Grain pattern

Douglas fir and cedar have distinct grain patterns that set them apart. Douglas fir features a straight, consistent grain with a smooth texture.

This uniformity makes it ideal for projects that require a clean, polished look. Its tight grain structure also contributes to its strength and durability.

Cedar, in contrast, has a more varied and irregular grain pattern. It often displays knots and waves, which give it a rustic and natural appearance.

This makes cedar a popular choice for projects aiming for a more organic or outdoor-friendly aesthetic.

While Douglas fir’s straight grain offers a sleek, modern appeal, cedar’s irregular patterns add character and uniqueness.

The choice depends on whether you prefer consistency or a more textured, natural look.

Cedar Vs Fir: Hardness

When comparing hardness, Douglas fir is the stronger of the two. It has a higher Janka hardness rating, making it more resistant to dents and scratches.

This durability makes Douglas fir a reliable choice for structural applications like beams, flooring, and furniture that need to withstand heavy use.

Cedar is much softer in comparison. Its lower Janka rating means it is more prone to dents and surface damage.

However, this softness has its advantages, such as being easier to cut, shape, and handle during projects. It’s often used for siding, shingles, and decorative purposes where strength is less critical.

Western Red Cedar Vs Douglas Fir: Strength

Douglas fir is nearly twice as strong as western red cedar. It has a compressive strength of 7230 psi, whereas western red cedar has a compressive strength of 4560 psi.

This significant difference means Douglas fir can bear much heavier loads. Its superior strength makes it a top choice for structural applications like beams, posts, and framing in construction.

Cedar, while durable in other aspects, is not designed for heavy load-bearing. Its lower compressive strength makes it better suited for lighter applications.

For projects requiring high strength and load capacity, Douglas fir is the clear winner.

Douglas Fir Vs Cedar: Rot resistance

Cedar is well-known for its exceptional rot resistance. It contains natural oils and compounds that repel moisture and deter fungi, making it highly durable in wet or humid conditions.

This resistance makes cedar a favorite for outdoor projects like siding, decking, and fencing, where exposure to the elements is constant.

Cedar can last for decades with minimal maintenance in such environments.

Douglas fir, in contrast, has moderate rot resistance. While it can withstand some exposure to moisture, it requires proper sealing or treatment to prevent decay.

Without protection, it may succumb to rot faster than cedar, especially in damp conditions.

If durability in harsh, wet environments is a priority, cedar is the better option. Douglas fir is more suitable for indoor or treated outdoor use.

Cedar Vs Douglas Fir: Durability

Douglas fir’s superior hardness and strength make it slightly more durable than western red cedar wood. Although fir items can last many years, cedar items like cedar siding last long with good maintenance.

To restore cedar siding and extend its already impressive lifespan, periodic sealing and maintenance are recommended, ensuring continued resilience against the elements.

Related: Best stain for douglas fir door

Douglas fir Versus Cedar: Sustainability

Both Douglas fir and cedar are considered sustainable, but their environmental impacts differ slightly.

Douglas fir is widely grown and harvested in managed forests, making it a renewable resource. It grows relatively quickly and is replanted after logging, which helps maintain its availability.

Its strength and durability also mean fewer replacements over time, contributing to its sustainability.

Cedar, particularly western red cedar, is also sustainably managed, but it grows more slowly than Douglas fir. This slower growth rate can make it less abundant and increase its cost.

However, cedar’s natural resistance to rot and pests reduces the need for chemical treatments, making it a more eco-friendly choice for outdoor projects.

Both woods are sustainable, but Douglas fir’s faster growth offers better availability, while cedar’s natural durability enhances its environmental appeal.

Cedar Versus Douglas Fir: Uses/applications

Douglas fir and cedar serve different purposes due to their unique properties.

Douglas fir, with its high strength and durability, is commonly used in construction. It’s ideal for beams, framing, flooring, and other structural applications where load-bearing capacity is essential.

Its straight grain also makes it a popular choice for furniture, cabinetry, and doors, providing a clean and polished finish.

Cedar, on the other hand, is prized for its natural resistance to rot and pests. It is widely used in outdoor projects like decking, fencing, and siding.

Its lightweight nature and ease of workability also make it a favorite for crafting shingles, garden furniture, and decorative items. Additionally, cedar’s aromatic properties are used in closets and storage chests to repel insects.

While Douglas fir is the go-to for heavy-duty structural projects, cedar excels in outdoor and decorative applications.

Douglas Fir Vs Cedar: Cost

Douglas fir and cedar are both popular choices in construction and woodworking, but their costs differ.

Douglas fir is more affordable, with prices ranging from $2 to $4 per board foot. In contrast, cedar tends to be pricier, typically between $2 and $5 per board foot.

For example, a 1×4 Douglas fir board might cost around $7.65 per linear foot, while the same size in cedar could be about $8.20.

These figures can vary based on factors like wood grade, market demand, and regional availability.

Remember, both woods have experienced price fluctuations due to trade policies and tariffs, especially on imports from Canada.

Therefore, when budgeting for a project, check current local prices.

See also: Cedar vs Redwood

Douglas Fir Vs Cedar Wood: Key Applications

Choosing the right wood for your project is crucial to ensure durability, style, and performance. Douglas fir and cedar each shine in specific applications, but knowing their strengths can make all the difference.

Read on to discover which wood is best suited for your needs and make an informed decision for your next project.

Fence

Cedar wood is a better fencing wood than Douglas fir because it’s more rot and decay-resistant. Cedar species take a long time to rot, even when in contact with the ground or in wet conditions.

Cedar fences are lasting and renowned for their exceptional longevity, making them a prime choice for outdoor enclosures.

Pergola

Both Douglas fir and cedar make excellent materials for a pergola. However, woodworkers concur that Douglas fir edges the contest. It’s almost twice as strong as cedar and way harder, thus guaranteeing a more durable pergola.

Outdoor fencing

For outdoor fencing, cedar is the better choice. Its natural oils make it resistant to rot, decay, and pests.

Cedar also handles moisture well, ensuring long-lasting durability in various weather conditions. Its lighter weight makes installation easier, and it weathers beautifully over time.

While Douglas fir can work, cedar’s resilience and natural beauty make it the top contender.

Flooring and decking

For flooring and decking, Douglas fir is the superior option. Its strength and hardness make it durable for high-traffic areas and heavy loads.

It resists wear and maintains its shape over time, making it ideal for indoor flooring or sturdy outdoor decks.

Cedar, while naturally weather-resistant, is softer and more prone to dents, making it less suitable for these applications.

Window and door frames

Douglas fir is the better option for windows and door frames. Its strength and stability ensure frames hold their shape over time, even under stress or weight.

The straight grain and smooth finish also make it ideal for precise cuts and a polished look.

Cedar, while lightweight and resistant to decay, lacks the necessary strength for long-lasting structural support.

Furniture

Due to the strength and durability of Douglas fir, it is the better choice for furniture. Its straight grain and smooth surface make it ideal for crafting sturdy tables, chairs, and cabinets.

It can handle daily use and maintain its structure over time. Cedar, while lighter and aromatic, is better suited for decorative or outdoor furniture, as it’s softer and less durable.

Structural support

For structural support, Douglas fir is the clear winner. Its high compressive strength and stability make it ideal for beams, joists, and framing in construction.

It can bear heavy loads without warping or buckling, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Cedar, while durable in outdoor conditions, lacks the necessary strength for load-bearing applications.

Douglas Fir Vs Cedar Wood: FAQs

Cedar Vs Douglas Fir: Verdict

When to Use Douglas Fir: Douglas fir is best suited for building and construction projects. So, it’s a great choice for roofing, framework construction, interior and exterior trim, and wall and ceiling structures.

When to Use Cedarwood: Cedarwood is good for weather-exposed applications that don’t require the strongest wood. Therefore, fencing, garden furniture, and paneling are a few excellent applications.

Additional Resources: Douglas Fir Vs Pine Wood Comparison