Naturally beautiful, aromatic, and weather-resistant, cedar is a timeless choice for both indoor and outdoor projects. We carry a premium selection of cedar lumber and products ideal for decking, siding, fencing, panelling, furniture, and more. Cedar is prized for its natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture, making it especially well-suited for Canadian climates. Its warm tones, distinctive grain, and pleasant aroma add character and comfort to any space—indoors or out. Lightweight and easy to work with, cedar takes stain, paint, and sealers well, offering flexibility for both rustic and refined applications. As a proudly Canadian company, Windsor Plywood specializes in high-quality, hard-to-find wood species and provides expert advice with every project. Whether you're building a backyard retreat or updating an interior with natural charm, cedar delivers the performance and beauty that stand the test of time.
Pine, fir, cedar, and spruce are the most commonly available live edge softwood species at Windsor Plywood. Each has distinct grain character and colour. Cedar has natural decay resistance making it suitable for outdoor applications; pine and fir are well-suited for indoor furniture and shelving.
Softwoods like pine and fir are softer than hardwood species and will show dents and scratches more readily under daily dining use. They are better suited for coffee tables, shelving, decorative pieces, and lower-traffic surfaces. If hardwood-level durability is needed for a dining table, consider maple or walnut slabs instead.
Live edge softwood is generally less expensive than comparable hardwood species due to faster growth cycles and wider availability. Pine and fir slabs offer the natural edge aesthetic at a more accessible price point, making them practical for larger surface areas like countertops and bar tops.
Cedar is the primary softwood with the natural oils and decay resistance for outdoor use in Canadian conditions. Pine, fir, and spruce require proper sealing and are better suited for covered outdoor areas where they will not be directly exposed to rain. Even sealed softwood will require maintenance over time outdoors.
Douglas fir has a pronounced, tight straight grain with reddish-brown tones that become richer over time. Pine shows more variation, with wider grain rings, knots, and a warmer, lighter amber tone. Fir tends to be harder and denser than most pine species, making it slightly more durable as a furniture material.