Cedar Lining – Old World Charm in
Modern Homes
‘Irreplaceable’ is one of the few words that come to mind when describing cedar as a material for
internal wall lining. You can try pressure-treated wood or expensive composites, but the aromatic cedar
is a far more popular option. ‘Diverse’ is another one. Cedar can be used to line walls, closets, ceilings,
floors. In fact, any part of the home that requires long lasting, low-maintenance beautification can take
advantage of cedar lining.
Below, we’ve highlighted a few of the main reasons why cedar lining would make an excellent addition
to your home.
Moisture Control
Cedar is among the least affected woods when it comes to humidity-based damage. Because they
absorb very little moisture, they warp very little as compared to most pines, walnut, ash, fir, red oak,
and white oak (see a comparison). This makes them very long lasting; gapping, buckling, and other
deformations caused by absorbing or losing moisture are unheard of in cedar. Keep in mind though that
the use of sealant is generally recommended. Also, cedar will only perform well if it isn’t too dry or wet
during installation.
The impervious nature of cedar makes it great for use in humid environments where concrete and most
other woods would succumb to fungal attack, creating health risks as well as poor aesthetics. However,
the fact that cedars don’t
absorb moisture means that
humidity remains high in
cedar-lined rooms. This may
cause damage to other
materials.
Cedar lining should
therefore be used in wellventilated rooms or in
spaces where already dry
items are stored (such as
closets).
Moth Repellent and Insect Proof
Speaking of closets, cedars are well known for their aroma, which is effective in killing wool-chomping
moth larvae. Although it has no effect on fully-grown moths and their eggs (as well as carpet beetles,
also notorious for attacking wool), the smell is often a welcome addition to a cedar-lined closet! If you
really want to keep your woolen garments safe, wrap them in cotton and keep only clean clothes inside
your closet.
Cedars are also naturally termite-resistant. The cedar’s heartwood contains chemicals that prove
poisonous to termites, which means that you’ve got a durable, zero-chemical-treatment solution along
with the great smell!
Insulating
Although timber is generally a much better insulator than concrete and stone, cedar is more insulating
than most other varieties. This means that cedar lining creates temperate homes in extreme weather
environments, allowing you to save on heating and air conditioning bills.
Moreover, cedar lining can be treated to reduce fire hazards, which makes it safe for use in bushfireprone regions.
Easier for DIY Projects
Now who doesn’t like to break out the hammer and handsaw every now and then and remind
themselves why DIY projects are much more satisfying (and economical) than calling in a professional?
Whether it’s putting together tongue and groove of cedar boards together and lining your closet, nailing
boards to the joists on your dining area ceiling, or simply sanding an aged cedar surface to release some
more of that amazing cedar fragrance, cedar is fun, lighter than other varieties, and easy to work with.
Start with giving your closet or home office a makeover with cedar lining, before moving onto more
ambitious kitchen or living room projects. Various internet resources as well as your cedar supplier will
be able to guide you on nailing, finishing and oiling/polishing. Experiment with two-tone styles, raised
panel walls, cedar wainscoting, as well as any styles that you come up with!
Remember: improvising is half the fun in DIY projects.
A polished, clean, and richly colored cedar lining easily lends a cozy, natural charm to almost any room.
It complements indoor plants and warm, diffused spotlighting, is timeless in its sophistication, and has
multiple natural qualities rare among other timbers. Many cedars (such as the western red cedar) are
grown in sustainable forests, so you can be sure that your choice is an ecologically sound one as well!