Direct answer: Western red cedar trim boards offer natural beauty, durability, and easy workability for interior and exterior trim projects. This guide highlights five select cedar products that fit common homeowner needs—from decorative paneling to lattice-style shutters—so you can choose the best option for your project type and climate. The top picks cover wall accents, lightweight boards for crafts, and exterior trim components. The table below summarizes key product details to help you compare at a glance.
- Product
- Brand
- Length / Size
- Best For
| Product | Brand | Size / Pack | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Red Cedar Wall Panels | baoyeewood | 16″ – 55″ lengths, 10.5 sq ft | Accent walls, interior and exterior paneling |
| Woodchucks Wood Red Cedar Boards 24″ x 5″ x 1/4″ | Woodchucks Wood | 24″ x 5″ x 1/4″ (10 pack) | Craft projects, laser cutting, thin planks |
| 16 Inch Long Aromatic Cedar Wood Boards | Woodchucks Wood | 16″ long, various widths | Closet lining, moth prevention, crafts |
| Barrington Hardwoods Eastern Red Cedar Lumber | Barrington Hardwoods | 3/4″ x 6″ (two pieces) | Trim, framing, small exterior use |
| Ekena Millwork Exterior Cedar Board-n-Batten Shutters | Ekena Millwork | 12″ wide x 62″ high per pair | Exterior shutters, decorative trim |
Western Red Cedar Wall Panels, 3.5″ Wx16-55″ L
Product overview: A collection of Canadian red cedar boards in lengths from 16″ to 55″ that cover 10.5 square feet. The panels are sourced from sustainable forests in Canada, feature high density and a knot-free texture, and are described as 100% natural with a pleasant cedar aroma. Best for homeowners seeking a lightweight yet natural wall accent with minimal processing. Caution: Some boards may have grain variation; plan layout accordingly for a seamless look. This option is well suited for interior or exterior accent walls where a natural cedar appearance is desired.
Woodchucks Wood Red Cedar Boards 24″ x 5″ x 1/4″
Product overview: A 10-pack of thin aromatic cedar boards, each 1/4″ thick, 5″ wide, and 24″ long. All boards are kiln-dried and suitable for laser cutting and scroll sawing. Best for hobbyists and DIY crafters who need lightweight, uniform boards for precise cuts and decorative pieces. Limitation: These boards are thin and may not provide significant structural strength for heavy exterior trim projects. Ideal for inlay work, small accents, or craft projects.
16 Inch Long Aromatic Cedar Wood Boards
Product overview: Aromatic red cedar boards marketed for crafts with rustic appeal. Each box measures about 16″ long, and the set includes roughly 30 boards in varying widths, typically around 2″ wide. Best for closet lining or small decorative projects where natural moth deterrence and cedar scent are desirable. Caution: Data notes wide width variation; plan layout to accommodate varying board sizes for a uniform look.
Barrington Hardwoods Eastern Red Cedar Lumber
Product overview: 3/4″ thick, 6″ wide cedar lumber sold in two pieces. Sourced from eastern red cedar and kiln dried with two sides sanded. Best for trim, framing, or small exterior applications where a sturdy, uniform substrate is needed. Caution: Eastern red cedar can vary in tone; select boards to achieve consistent color if pairing across an installation.
Ekena Millwork Cedar Board-n-Batten Shutters
Product overview: Exterior three-board cedar board-n-batten shutters (per pair) in Tudor Brown. Handcrafted in the USA with authentic wood that can be painted or stained. Best for exterior decorative shutters and trim accents that require durable, real wood with traditional appearance. Caution: Shutters are exterior features and may require proper mounting hardware and ventilation clearance for longer-term performance.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Purpose and environment: Choose interior panels for walls, thin boards for crafts, or exterior trim where weather exposure matters.
- Wood type and aroma: Eastern red cedar and western red cedar offer distinct aromas and appearances. Consider scent preferences and any sensitivity to resin or oils.
- Thickness and weight: Thinner boards are easier to cut and install but may lack structural strength. Heavier, thicker boards provide sturdier trim for exterior use.
- Surface finish: Decide between natural, stained, or painted finishes. Some products are ready-to-finish with sanding on two sides.
- Dimension consistency: Boards can vary in width or length. Plan layouts to minimize gaps and mismatches.
- Installation considerations: Confirm compatibility with fasteners, moisture exposure, and substrate preparation for exterior installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between western red cedar and eastern red cedar?
– Western red cedar is commonly used for exterior siding and panels due to its durability and color, while eastern red cedar is often chosen for its aroma and natural moth-repellent properties in closets and indoor spaces. - Are cedar trim boards resistant to rot?
- Can cedar boards be painted or stained?
- What thickness should I choose for exterior cedar trim?
- How should I prepare cedar boards for installation?