why cedar

Back

why use western red cedar?
characteristics & properties of western red cedar
benefits of real cedar
real cedar history
real cedar certification
sustainability & the environment
biophilia
forestry facts
why use yellow cedar?
products

Back

siding

Back

introduction
siding home
siding gallery
design & spec
siding grades
siding calculator
prep & install
preparation
pre-building
tyvek drainwrap
general installation
finish & maintain
choosing a finish
how to finish
care & maintenance
restoration
siding profiles & trim
bevel
trim boards
board & batten
shingle panels
tongue & groove
lap or channel
decking

Back

introduction
decking home
decking gallery
design & spec
decking grades
decking span charts
span tables
decking calculator
prep & install
fasteners
stairs & railings
finish & maintain
choosing a finish
how to finish
care & maintenance
restoration
deck projects
roof deck
ground level deck
raised deck
uphill sloping lot deck
outdoor

Back

introduction
outdoor home
outdoor gallery
design & spec
diy plans
pre-built kits
design tips
span tables
prep & install
preparation
fasteners
finish & maintain
choosing a finish
how to finish
care & maintenance
restoration
fences
fence construction
fence specifications
pre-built fence panels
indoor

Back

introduction
indoor home
indoor gallery
design & spec
design tips
prep & install
preparation
finish & maintain
how to finish
care & maintenance
indoor projects
saunas
doors & windows
tongue & groove paneling
blinds & shutters
timbers

Back

introduction
timbers home
timbers gallery
design & spec
grades & specs
span tables
prep & install
preparation
installation
finish & maintain
how to finish
care & maintenance
restoration
diy projects
membership

Back

our members

Back

executive members
retailers
partners
tertiary manufacturers
certified cedar distributors
certified cedar distributors - usa
certified cedar distributor - canada
architects
international associates
why become a member?
membership levels
membership benefits
membership faq
cedar school registration
join the wrcla!
member support
resources

Back

gallery
videos
blog
documents
*new* yellow cedar
gallery
about us
architects & builders
member login

USA & Canada

Five Reasons Cedar Makes Sense in the Snow

Sign up now for our DIY Project Newsletter

Maniscalo – Sugar Bowl

The Quiet beauty of a Cedar Cabin in Snow

Why is Western Red Cedar siding seen on cabins in every ski haven from Stowe to Aspen, and beyond? We’ve got five reasons Cedar is the material of choice when it comes to building a durable and beautiful home in snowy ski towns everywhere.

Crowsnest At SugarBowl – Bruce Damonte

1. You Can’t Beat Natural Beauty

Whether it’s rustic knotty cedar or crisp, elegant clear, Western Red Cedar’s natural warmth pops brilliantly against fresh white snow – making a cabin or home look like the warm, earthy sanctuary it’s meant to be.

Canadian Cancer Society – Kordyban Lodge

2. The Best For Cold Weather

Compared to other wood species, Western Red Cedar is a durable and stable building material that stands up to seasonal changes in dry cold weather, along with regions with high levels of humidity and/or dry heat. Additionally, with its low density and high proportion of air spaces, Western Red Cedar is also the best thermal insulator among the commonly available softwood species and is far superior to brick, concrete and steel when it comes to keeping heat in.

Stellar Residences & Townhouses At Mountainside Northstar

3. You’re Spoiled for Choice

Western Red Cedar also accepts a wide range of finishes, so you have many options when it comes to the appearance of the wood. Go for a warm cinnamon hue, ebony stain or leave it to naturally turn a silvery gray.

Maniscalo – Sugar Bowl

4. Resists Rot and Decay

Western Red Cedar is highly versatile because it has its own ingrown preservatives that resist rot, decay and insects. This versatility also lends to Cedar’s ability to thrive in any climate – whether it dips below freezing, or is hot and humid.

Boulders Residences, BAR Architects

5. Sustainable Building

Feel good about using Western Red Cedar, as it is one of the most sustainable building materials in the world. In fact, more evergreen trees are growing in North America now than there were over 100 years ago.

If you’re considering Cedar siding for your ski home, or even summer cabin, Western Red Cedar is an investment you will appreciate for years to come – no matter what type of weather comes your way.