Cypress vs. Cedar Wood

Cypress Advantages

• Cypress wood is remarkably resistant to decay, and products that are made out of cypress tend to have a very long, useful lifespan. Cypress heartwood can last over 200 years without rotting. Cypress wood flooring, furniture, fencing, decking, cabinets and shingles can all be expected to last for many decades, while needing minimal maintenance. The wood of a cypress tree is attractive, and it has a wide range of coloring possibilities. The wood is also easy to stain, and you can give it almost any appearance you desire.

Cypress Disadvantages

• The primary disadvantage of cypress wood is that the supply is limited, and old-growth cypress trees have become significantly harder to come by in recent decades due to the loss of habitats and logging. Cypress trees are essential to the wetlands in which they grow. They provide a habitat and food source for animals and birds, while also working as a filter for pollutants in the water. Cypress logging is limited in many places, and in some areas cutting down old-growth cypress trees -- the ones with the most valuable heartwood -- has even banned. Quality cypress wood can be expensive due to the limited quantities available.

Cedar Advantages

• Cedar is another substantial hardwood that can be used for a wide variety of products and projects. Cedar wood is considered to be more sustainable than cypress wood, and as of the date of publication there is no shortage of cedar trees available. Cedar is durable and fairly strong, though not as durable as cypress. It has also been shown to be more insect resistant then cypress wood. There are several types of cedar, including white and red. Cedar dries out quickly and does not hold water.

Cedar Disadvantages

• Cedar wood can be expensive. If you are using it outdoors, you will need to stain, seal and repaint it every five to 10 years in order to keep it looking its best. If cedar wood is not maintained properly, it may warp or crack as it ages and is exposed to the elements.