Is cedar a hardwood?
No, cedar definitely isn’t a hardwood. I learned this the hard way when I tried using leftover cedar shakes from my fence to build a small bookshelf. It seemed perfect – I had the wood, it smelled nice, and cedar is supposed to be strong for outdoor projects. But cutting it was a breeze, way too easy for something I wanted to hold heavy books. It felt almost like soft pine. Maybe that’s why cedar shingles are great for siding – they’re lightweight and flexible, but probably not the best choice for furniture unless you’re going for a very rustic look. Live and learn!
Is cedar good firewood?
Well, if you’re looking for a cozy fire that crackles, pops, and fills the room with that woodsy cedar smell, then yes, it’s fantastic. But, if staying toasty warm through the night is your goal, you might be disappointed. Cedar burns incredibly fast, so you’ll find yourself feeding the fire constantly. I’ve found it’s best as kindling to get a fire roaring or for short-lived outdoor campfires where the scent and ambiance are more important than long-lasting heat.
Does cedar repel bugs?
This is tricky. The smell of fresh cedar definitely puts some critters off. That’s why I stuff cedar shavings in old socks to tuck into musty corners of my basement. It works wonders to keep away those creepy silverfish! But I wouldn’t solely depend on it for serious bug defense. During mosquito season, they barely seem to notice the cedar mulch in my flower beds. So, I’d say it’s a mild deterrent, but don’t expect miracles – those citronella candles might be a better bet!
What does cedar smell like?
To me, cedar smells like a simpler time. It’s a mix of a sharpened pencil, an old cedar chest passed down from my grandma, and a brisk walk through a pine forest after a light rain. There’s a woodsy warmth to it, but also a sharp, almost camphor-like quality that makes it feel clean and nostalgic all at once. It’s the type of scent that always makes me pause and breathe a little deeper.
Can you paint cedar?
You can definitely paint cedar, but it takes a little extra know-how. My neighbor learned this firsthand when she gave her cedar fence a fresh coat of bright turquoise. It looked absolutely stunning…until the following summer when big sections started peeling and chipping. Cedar’s natural oils can cause problems if you don’t prep it properly. You need the right kind of primer and careful attention to any knots or sap spots. I haven’t tried it myself, but from now on, when it comes to cedar, I’m sticking with a natural stain – that way, I know its beauty will last longer.
Do termites eat cedar?
Unfortunately, termites will eat cedar if they’re hungry enough. Everyone told me my cedar-lined closets were safe from moths and other pests, which is true, but I didn’t think about termites. One year I found a whole corner of my favorite sweater collection riddled with tiny holes. Turns out my closet backed up to an area where termites were active in the walls. It was a nasty surprise, but a good lesson! Cedar might offer a little more resistance than other woods, but it definitely won’t keep those destructive critters out forever.
Where to buy cedar lumber?
Honestly, finding cedar lumber hasn’t always been easy in my area. The big box home improvement stores usually have a small section, but the quality can be hit or miss. I’ve had much better luck seeking out specialized lumber yards. They tend to carry a wider variety of cedar in different grades and dimensions. Plus, the staff is usually knowledgeable about the wood and can offer advice for projects. The drive might be a little further, but it’s worth it for getting the right kind of cedar and avoiding frustration down the line.
Does cedar repel mice?
I wish I could give a definitive yes, but the truth is, it’s hit or miss. The strong cedar scent certainly seems to bother mice, and I’ve had success sprinkling cedar shavings around areas where I’d spotted droppings. However, if they’re determined and food is scarce, the smell won’t be enough. Sealing up holes and removing anything tasty is still my number one defense. I think of cedar as a good added layer of protection, but not a cure-all for a serious rodent problem.
Can you burn cedar in a fireplace?
While it’s tempting to toss cedar scraps into the fireplace for that wonderful scent, I try to use it sparingly. Cedar pops and sparks a lot more than seasoned hardwoods, which can be dangerous indoors. Plus, I’ve heard the oils can leave extra residue in your chimney, increasing the risk of creosote buildup. Cedar’s great as kindling to get a fire going quickly or for enjoying a bonfire outside with friends, but for keeping my house warm all night, I usually stick to oak or maple.
Is cedar oil safe for dogs?
This is a tricky one, and honestly, I wouldn’t risk it. There’s a lot of mixed information out there about essential oils and pets. While some people swear by diluted cedarwood oil for flea control, others claim it can irritate a dog’s skin and even be toxic. To be on the safe side, I avoid using it topically on my pup, and definitely never let her ingest it. When it comes to my furry friend’s health, I always err on the side of caution and consult with my vet to find alternative solutions.
Is cedar oil safe for cats?
Definitely not! I learned this the hard way when I tried using a cedar oil spray to keep cats off my houseplants. One of my cats started acting really strange – lethargic and wobbly. After a panicked trip to the vet, it turned out the cedarwood oil was toxic to her. Cats’ livers can’t process it the same way ours do. It was a scary lesson, and since then, I’m super careful about any essential oils around my feline friends. I stick to cat-approved toys and deterrents instead.
What color is cedar?
The beauty of cedar is that its color has so much depth and variation. When it’s freshly cut, there’s a gorgeous reddish-pink hue, sometimes swirling with creamy streaks and even hints of purple. My cedar deck, weathered by years of sun and rain, has mellowed into a soft, silvery gray that’s still beautiful in its own way. And then there’s the heartwood, that rich, warm amber color hidden deep inside – it’s a real treat to see when you’re working with it.
Does cedar repel mosquitoes?
Sadly, I wouldn’t count on cedar as your ultimate defense against those pesky mosquitoes. The scent might give them a slight pause, especially if it’s fresh cedarwood, but it’s not nearly as effective as a good bug spray with DEET. I love the smell of my cedar deck furniture, but it doesn’t mean I can skip the repellent when I’m grilling those summer burgers. Maybe a combination of cedar mulch in your landscaping AND the bug spray is a good strategy, but cedar alone just doesn’t seem to pack the punch to keep them away for long.
How to clean cedar wood?
The way I clean my cedar furniture really depends on its age and condition. If it’s new or has a recent protective finish, a simple wash with mild soapy water and a soft scrub brush is usually enough to remove dust and pollen. For older pieces that are looking a bit weathered, I might use a gentle pressure washer on a low setting. It does a fantastic job of removing built-up grime. Either way, I always make sure to let the cedar dry completely before applying a fresh coat of stain or oil to protect it and keep that beautiful color vibrant.
