Cedar is the natural choice because of its beauty, practicality and
durability. It is naturally resistant to decay, insect and weather
damage. Because of this superior resistance, cedar is frequently used
for outdoor fencing, and siding on homes. Cedar has an exceptionally
high strength-to-weight ratio, which means that it is both durable and
easy to move about. It does not shrink or warp as many other woods
commonly do. Unlike pressure-treated wood furniture, no chemical
preservatives are used that may be harmful to your family's health.
Two types of cedar are used to create this line of products - Northern White Cedar for our indoor and
outdoor furniture for its creamy white color and enduring strength, and
Western Red Cedar for our outdoor garden products such as arbors and
trellises. When left untreated, over time white cedar weathers
gracefully to a silvery gray, or it can be stained to match any décor.
All cedar log furniture is subject to the natural process of
checking as the wood "seasons". Checking occurs as wood releases
moisture across or through the annual growth rings and it does not
affect the structural performance or integrity of the wood.
How To Care For Your Cedar Wood Furniture
Northern White and Western Red Cedar are some of the most sought-after
woods that are ideal for many outdoor and indoor uses. It is a fine
grained wood that is durable and resistant to rotting and insects.
Because cedar is a top choice for carefree living, it can be left
natural or it can be painted or stained to match any decor.
Left untreated,
both Western Red and Northern White Cedar will weather to a beautiful
soft silver gray. Untreated cedar is natural and pleasing, however, the
wood is porous and over the long term may become discolored if left in
damp or shaded areas. A 20 percent solution of household bleach in
water with one ounce of detergent per gallon will usually remove the
stain. Even after years of exposure, cedar can be refinished to its
natural bright clean appearance.
If you opt to stain
your cedar furniture, there are a wide variety of penetrating stains.
We recommend Penofin(r). because it is formulated to enhance the
natural beauty of the wood and will keep it looking that way. Some
stains also have water repellant additives and mildew inhibitors.
Penetrating stains go into the wood without forming a surface barrier.
This eliminates the problems of blistering and peeling of painted
surfaces. They work well on wood with knots and deep surface texture.
Whichever stain you opt to use, please follow the manufacturer's
directions for a successful application.
If you decide to paint cedar,
the natural color and grain of the wood will be concealed. So many
great colors are now available to accent your decor. Our furniture is
also popular with artists who paint flowers, natural scenes, or
whimsical patterns right on the furniture. Follow the directions on the
manufacturer's product for the best application methods.
