Cedar
Frequently asked questions
Can Cedar be laser cut?
Yes: Cedar can be laser cut. Adequate extraction/ventilation is required.
Can Cedar be CNC machined?
Yes: Cedar can be CNC machined.
Is Cedar food safe?
Yes, Cedar is food safe even in its raw state.
Physical properties
| Density | 350.0–480.0 kg/m³ |
|---|---|
| Janka hardness | 1700.0 N |
| Moisture absorption | Medium |
Laser processing
Essential oils (thujaplicin, cedrol) burn with a very intense and aromatic scent. Although the smell is pleasant, the volatile organic compounds require extraction. Do not work in closed spaces.
CO₂: Low density: low-power CO2 (20–40 W) sufficient for cutting up to 5 mm. The natural aromatic oils produce a characteristic, intense scent during laser processing. Engraving with sharp contrast and typical reddish-brown colour. Clean edges.
Diode: Excellent results with 10 W+ diode laser for engraving and thin cutting. Low density is an advantage.
Fiber: Not applicable.
CNC / milling processing
Soft and easy to mill. Low tool wear. The fibrous structure can fray with dull end mills. Excellent surface finish with positive-helix end mills. Natural oils may cause chips to stick slightly to tools.
Post-processing
Sanding: Sands easily due to low density. Grits 100 → 150 → 220. The surface absorbs oil finishes well. Natural oils make the dust slightly sticky.
Primer: Cedar's natural oils can interfere with synthetic paint adhesion. For opaque coatings, use an isolating primer or sand thoroughly to reduce the surface oil content.
Gluing: Natural oils significantly reduce the adhesion of standard adhesives. Degrease thoroughly with solvent (acetone or alcohol) before gluing. PVA and polyurethane adhesive work best after cleaning. Avoid epoxy adhesive without pre-treatment.
Seasoning: Already stable from a hygrometric standpoint thanks to internal oils. Ideal working moisture 10–12%.
Over time: Excellent natural durability outdoors (durability class 2, EN 350). Natural antibacterial and antifungal oils make it resistant to moisture and insects. Over the years develops a characteristic silver-grey patina.
Common defects
- Natural oils interfere with synthetic adhesives and finishes
- Very strong odour during thermal operations — adequate ventilation required
- Low mechanical strength relative to density — not suitable for load-bearing structural applications
Safety
Recommended PPE: mask_p3, eye_protection, gloves
Cedar dust can cause contact dermatitis and respiratory sensitisation in susceptible individuals. Essential oils are irritants to mucous membranes. P3 mask and gloves during sanding and prolonged processing.
Availability and formats
Commercial formats: sawn boards, cladding staves, tongue-and-groove for wardrobes, tonewood boards for lutherie
Related materials
Sources
- Wood Database — Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata)
- Wood Database — Lebanon Cedar (Cedrus libani)
- UNI EN 350 — Durabilità naturale del legno
Information on compatibility, processing parameters and safety is purely indicative. MakerSpecs accepts no liability for damage to persons or property arising from the use of this data. Always check the safety rules and the manufacturer's official manuals before carrying out any processing.