Cedar Projects

Fences

• Cedar is one of the premier woods for fence building. Rough red cedar pickets last as long as treated lumber and are much more attractive. One of the best ways to build a cedar fence is by using prefab fence panels. They are available in a wide variety of styles and sizes. Common styles include stockade fences, cap-and-trim and spaced picket. Panels typically come in 3- and 6-foot heights. Choose panels with full-width 2-by-4 horizontal rails and screwed-down pickets for best results.

Closets

• Cedar-lined closets resist moths and mildew, making them ideal for storing vulnerable furs and woolen suits. Use standard tongue-and-groove paneling or purchase custom closet lining, which is available at most lumberyards. Install the cedar unfinished to get the full benefit of its pest-repelling properties and to allow the aroma to permeate the closet. Bold-grain cedar is typically the choice for this type of project because the wood’s red-and-gold coloring adds a decorative element.

Cedar Chests

• Build blanket and hope chests from cedar or line them with a thin layer of cedar boards. Leave chests built from solid cedar unfinished on the inside for the same reason that closet lining is left unfinished. Woodworkers frequently build interior trays and drawers for the chest from cedar to match the lining and add protection from insects and mildew. Fitted lids are typical of this type of chest, providing an almost airtight seal for maximum protection. The quality of the construction is important since the oils in cedar that repel insects tend to dissipate over time.

Exterior Trim

• Cedar works well for replacing exterior household trim. Cut boards to width on a table saw and cut them to length with a power miter saw. Rough cedar works best. The added 1/8-inch thickness of the material and the texture add to its durability. Use cedar to replace window and door casings or fascia boards at the bottom of the roof edge. Cedar trim can be left bare, or you can stain or paint it for added longevity. Nail or screw the trim in place using treated or galvanized fasteners.