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Originally Posted On: https://blog.durhambuilding.com/what-is-rough-sawn-cedar-characteristics-and-uses/

What is Rough Sawn Cedar? Characteristics and Uses

Timber comes in many different sizes, shapes, cuts, and finishes. The type you need depends on the job at hand. There can be a lot of jargon surrounding timber and that can make it difficult to get exactly what you want for your project. You may be feeling a little overwhelmed, but you are not alone.

Have a look at this simple guide on what rough-sawn cedar, what is it used for, and is it the right wood for your project.

What Is Rough Sawn Cedar?

Rough-sawn timber is also referred to as rough-cut timber. It is wood that has been cut in a sawmill but it has been left untreated. It has also not been planned or finished in any way. This means that is as rustic as the first cut process the log goes through. This is the part where the logs are cut into blanks or beams. This timber is classed as natural with a rugged texture to its surface. It has visible saw marks and the irregularities you would see in nature. It doesn’t have a smooth texture at all. If you want to have a more natural, forest appearance to your timber then this is the right type for you. This type of wood usually holds onto moisture a little more because it has been kiln-dried. You will find that these types of planks provide great versatility for your project.

Where Can You Use Rough Sawn Cedar?

You would usually see rough-sawn timber used in woodwork projects and construction where a more natural or rustic appearance is desired. You may also see it where the construction tolerances are not overly important such as sleepers in the garden or at the bottom of fences. Some of the most common uses include:

Exterior Cladding

Exterior cladding on properties is an ideal use of rough-sawn timber. It gives a natural and rustic appearance which makes a building look traditional. It is great for properties such as barns, cabins, and other buildings where a more natural appearance would fit in better.

Structural Applications

The most common use for rough-sawn timber is when it is used in building construction. It will be used as beams, posts, and joists. These are then hidden in the walls of the building. It helps to build the structure therefore, the finishing process is not required. There is no point in spending the time finishing the timber when it is going to be hidden. When there are any exposed areas you will have the benefit of having a rustic, natural look.

Fencing

You are probably very used ot seeing rough-sawn timber being used for fencing. It’s the most common wood that is used when people are building fences. It matches the outside space and it provides a sturdy fence for partitioning gardens. When you are using timber in your garden, you want it to be as natural looking as possible so it fits in. When you use rough-sawn timber you will have a seamless move from man-made to natural elements of your garden. It can also be extremely cost-effective.

Marine And Fender Applications

These types of applications don’t require wood to be perfect, making rough-sawn timber the perfect choice. The rustic, weathered look is also ideal for blending with the marine environments which can last for years.

Pros And Cons Of Rough-Sawn Timber

Just like with other building materials, there are some pros and cons. The planks of rough-sawn timber can be thicker than other surfaced woods and a little bit heavier. This is because of the added moisture and the size. This makes them an ideal choice when you require sturdiness and strength.

The cost is usually cheaper when you buy it in bulk too. This is because they are untreated and more cost-effective to haul in bulk.

Rough-sawn timber is highly sustainable so if you are looking to minimize your carbon footprint, this timber could be a good choice.

Another great thing about rough-swan timber is the fact that it is great for adding color to it. It is naturally resin-free therefore, it colors extremely well. This means that when it comes to painting your fences in your garden, you can pretty much choose any color and it’ll take.

Cedar timber has a natural insect repellent which includes termites. It’s one of the reasons it is used so often in construction. The resin is toxic to them.

You will need to take more time to properly flatten, finish, and plane a rough-swan plank making it a little more complex to get the exact size that you want.

How To Use Rough-Sawn Timber

It is important for you to think about the moisture content of rough-sawn timber when you are working with it. You need to prevent too much movement when you are dealing with it too. Therefore, you need to include the fact that the wood may shrink until it meets the moisture equilibrium in the area it is staying. If you don’t account for this it could lead to issue in the future.

You might also need to think about preparation for the surface is is been installed, especially when your project is exposed to the elements. You need to b aware that the rough-sawn timber mu have splintered, rough spots, and sharp edges when you are working with it. It’s best to wear protective gloves and long sleeves. If you want to remove these you can easily sand them away and still be left with the rustic look you are after.

When it comes to rough-swan timber you need to make sure are doing proper finishing like sealing, painting, or staining. If you don’t you may allow the moisture to take over and your structures won’t last very long. You need to protect your rough-sawn timber from insects, UV exposure, and moisture depending on its location and use.

This is just a short guide on rough sawn timber, what it is, and how it can be used. Hopefully, it has given you an idea of whether it is good for your next project.