Cedar

Western RedCedar (Thuja plicata) Also known as arborvitae, giant arborvitae, giant cedar, canoe cedar, Pacific redcdear, and shinglewood.
Type: Softwood.

Sources: Grows in western United States and Canada.

Appearance: Straight and even grain with a uniform, course texture. Pinkish brown to dull brown heartwood and nearly white sapwood.

Physical Props: Light, moderately soft, low strength and shock resistance, very good decay resistance, and good stability in services. Poor steam bending rating.

Working Props: Turns, bores, cuts, and otherwise works well with hand or machine tools. Glues, nails, and screws satisfactorily. Finishes well, especially  with natural finishes.

Uses: Commonly used for shingles due to decay resistance and predictability of splitting. Also used for poles, posts, boxes, crates, caskets, siding boat building, porch columns, saunas, canoes, and decorative veneers. One of the best United States softwoods for outdoor applications.