Why to use cedar for lake and oceanfront homes

The beauty and majesty of a lake or oceanfront property is undeniable. However, owning a piece of property on the water also comes with its own set of unique challenges. One of the most important considerations for any lake or oceanfront property owner is the choice of building materials. And one material that should be at the top of the list is cedar.

Cedar is a highly durable and rot-resistant wood that has been used for centuries in construction. It is a softwood that is lightweight, yet strong and durable. Because of its natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect infestations, cedar is the perfect choice for construction projects that are located near water.

When it comes to lake and oceanfront properties, cedar has several advantages over other building materials. First and foremost, it is extremely resistant to moisture and water damage. The natural oils in cedar wood repel water, preventing it from absorbing moisture and swelling. This means that a cedar deck or dock will remain stable and sturdy for many years, even in a wet and humid environment.

Additionally, cedar is also resistant to insect infestations. Termites and other wood-destroying insects are a constant threat to any structure near water. These insects are attracted to the moisture and warmth of the water, and they can quickly infest and damage wood structures. Cedar is naturally resistant to these pests, which means that it will not be as likely to be damaged by these insects.

Furthermore, cedar also offers a beautiful, natural aesthetic. The warm, natural tones of cedar wood create a sense of warmth and comfort. It adds an organic, natural touch that blends well with the surrounding natural beauty of the lake or oceanfront property.

Another benefit of cedar is it is easy to maintain, it does not require (though generally applied) staining, or painting, it has natural oils that protect the wood itself.

When it comes to building materials for lake and oceanfront properties, cedar should always be at the top of the list. It is highly durable, rot-resistant, insect-resistant, and offers a beautiful, natural aesthetic. It requires minimal maintenance and will stand the test of time in even the toughest of environments.

Moisture content can make an impact

The moisture content of lumber plays a significant role in its durability and performance. Lumber that is too wet or too dry can be prone to warping, splitting, and other issues that can affect its strength and stability. When people set out to build their dream home they intend on being able to enjoy the finishes for many years to come. The perceived quality of service and material will often be attributed to these factors.

When lumber is freshly cut, it contains a high moisture content, typically around 50%. This moisture is known as "green" moisture, and it is present in the cells of the wood. In order to make the lumber suitable for use in construction and other applications, it must be dried to a specific moisture content level.

The most common way to dry lumber for custom homes is by kiln drying, which involves placing the lumber in a controlled environment, such as a kiln, and using heat and airflow to remove the moisture. Kiln drying is a common method used by lumber mills to produce dried, or "kiln-dried," lumber that is ready for use.

The moisture content of kiln-dried lumber is typically around 8-12% ( some lumber providers supply up to 13% - 15%), depending on the species of wood and the intended use of the lumber. This moisture content is considered to be "equilibrium moisture content," or EMC, which means that the lumber is in balance with the relative humidity (RH) of its environment.

Lumber that is too wet or too dry can be prone to issues such as warping and splitting. Lumber that is too wet will absorb moisture from the air, causing it to swell and potentially warp. This can cause cupping on ceilings within kitchens of custom homes. On the other hand, lumber that is too dry will lose moisture to the air, causing it to shrink and potentially crack or split. On ceilings and soffits this can attribute to gapping as well.

Maintaining the proper moisture content in lumber is important for its durability and performance. Lumber with an EMC that is in balance with the RH of its environment will be less prone to issues such as warping and splitting, and will be more stable and durable over time. When it comes to the build out of high end custom homes, this longevity can make a huge impact on the long-term success of the project.

The Milling of Cedar

Milling is an important process in the construction of custom homes, particularly when it comes to using cedar. Cedar is a popular choice for custom homes due to its durability, versatility, and attractive appearance. Here is a brief overview of the milling process for cedar in the construction of custom homes:

1. Harvesting: The first step in the milling process is to harvest the cedar logs from a sustainable forestry operation. This is typically done using a mechanized harvester, which cuts the logs into more manageable sizes for transport.

2. Debarking: After the logs are harvested, they are debarked to remove the outer layer of bark. This is typically done using a debarker machine, which uses high-pressure water jets to remove the bark while minimizing damage to the underlying wood.

3. Cutting: Once the logs are debarked, they are cut into rough lumber using a sawmill. There are several different types of sawmills, including circular sawmills, band sawmills, and chainsaw mills. The type of sawmill used will depend on the size and thickness of the logs, as well as the desired end product.

4. Drying: After the rough lumber is cut, it must be dried to remove excess moisture. This can be done using a kiln, which uses heat and humidity to dry the lumber slowly and evenly. Alternatively, the rough lumber can be air-dried, which takes longer but can result in a more natural, rustic look.

5. Planing: Once the lumber is dry, it is planed to smooth out the surface and create a uniform thickness. This is typically done using a planer, which removes excess wood and smooths the surface of the lumber.

6. Grading: After the lumber is planed, it is graded based on its appearance and strength. This is done by trained graders who use a set of standards to determine the quality of the lumber.

7. Cutting to size: After the lumber is graded, it is cut to the desired size and shape using a variety of saws and other machinery. This can include circular saws, band saws, and other specialized equipment.

8. Finishing: Finally, the cedar lumber may be finished with a variety of treatments to enhance its appearance and protect it from the elements. This can include staining, painting, or sealing the wood.

Overall, the milling process for cedar in the construction of custom homes is a complex and multi-step process that involves harvesting, debarking, cutting, drying, planing, grading, cutting to size, and finishing. By following these steps, builders can create high-quality cedar products that will be strong, durable, and attractive for custom home construction.

Hemlock vs. Cedar for your custom home

When it comes to building custom homes, choosing the right type of wood is an important decision. Two popular options are hemlock and cedar, both of which have their own unique benefits and drawbacks.

Hemlock is a softwood that is known for its strength and versatility. It is often used in construction for framing, flooring, ceilings, and decorative elements such as doors and trim. Hemlock is also a relatively inexpensive wood, making it a cost-effective choice for custom home builders.

One downside of hemlock, however, is its slightly larger susceptibility to rot and decay. It is not quite as durable as some other woods, especially in outdoor applications or in areas with high humidity. This can make it a less reliable choice for certain parts of a custom home, such as exterior siding or decking.

Cedar is a durable wood that is naturally resistant to rot and decay. It is often used in indoor applications, such as kitchen ceilings and outdoor applications, such as siding, and decking, due to its ability to withstand the heat, humidity, and general elements. Cedar is also a visually striking wood, with a warm color, beautiful hues, and attractive grain pattern that adds character to any home.

However, cedar is typically more expensive than hemlock. It also has a lower strength-to-weight ratio, which can be a consideration in certain construction applications.

In many cases in recent years with lumber prices rising we have seen Hemlock used for outdoor applications and as a cost saving choice. That said, ultimately, the choice between hemlock and cedar for custom home construction will depend on your specific needs and priorities. Both woods have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, and the right choice for you will depend on your budget, location, and the specific features and materials you want in your custom home.

Why cedar Is great for building a sauna

When it comes to building a sauna, choosing the right type of wood is crucial. Cedar is an excellent choice for sauna construction, offering a number of unique benefits that make it the best choice for this type of project.

One key reason to use cedar for building a sauna is its natural antimicrobial properties. Cedar contains natural oils that help to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, which is especially important in a sauna where the heat and humidity can create an ideal environment for these organisms to thrive. By using cedar, you can help to keep your sauna clean and hygienic.

In addition to its antimicrobial properties, cedar has a pleasant, natural aroma that many people find soothing and relaxing. When used in a sauna, this aroma can add to the overall calming and rejuvenating experience.

Cedar is also a durable wood that can withstand the high temperatures and humidity of a sauna. At an average of over 150 degrees fahrenheit, this is imperative. It is resistant to rot and decay, so it can withstand the damp conditions found in a sauna room. This makes it a long-lasting choice for sauna construction.

Finally, cedar is a beautiful wood with a natural grain pattern that adds warmth and character to any space. Different hues can help to illuminate your stay. When used in a sauna, it can help to create a more inviting and comfortable atmosphere.