When choosing the right wood for your pergola or pavilion, cedar is a popular choice thanks to its natural beauty, weather resistance, and longevity. But not all cedar is the same. Two common types used in outdoor structures are Eastern Red Cedar and Western Red Cedar—and each brings its own strengths to the table.

At Arkansas Pergolas & Shadeworx, we specialize in premium wood structures built from Douglas Fir, Western Red Cedar, and Cypress. But for customers seeking a more budget-friendly option, we proudly offer locally milled Eastern Red Cedar, which holds its own as a high-quality, attractive alternative. Here’s how the two compare:

Appearance and Color

• Western Red Cedar: Known for its rich reddish-brown hues with a more uniform, straight grain. Its smoother appearance makes it a favorite for refined architectural applications.

• Eastern Red Cedar: Typically has a striking mix of purples, reds, and creamy whites, often with a dramatic grain pattern. Our local mill sources Eastern Red Cedar with minimal to no sapwood, which means more of that deep, rich red heartwood that homeowners love.

Our Take: If you like bold, varied color tones and a more rustic aesthetic, Eastern Red Cedar is a standout.

Durability and Weather Resistance

• Western Red Cedar: Naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects due to its high level of natural oils. It performs extremely well outdoors, even in humid or wet conditions.

• Eastern Red Cedar: Also offers strong natural resistance to insects and decay, particularly the heartwood. The sapwood (white outer layer) is less durable, but our carefully milled stock avoids sapwood, ensuring longevity.

Our Take: With proper milling and installation, Eastern Red Cedar is highly durable and performs well in Arkansas’s climate.

Sourcing and Sustainability

• Western Red Cedar: Harvested primarily from the Pacific Northwest, which means added shipping and environmental costs.

• Eastern Red Cedar: Locally milled right here in Arkansas, supporting regional businesses and reducing transportation impact.

Our Take: For environmentally conscious buyers, locally sourced Eastern Red Cedar is a smart and sustainable option.

Cost

• Western Red Cedar: A premium wood with a premium price tag due to its demand and transport costs.

• Eastern Red Cedar: Our budget-friendly option, offering the natural benefits of cedar at a lower cost, without compromising on appearance or durability.

Our Take: If you’re looking for value without sacrificing quality, Eastern Red Cedar is the way to go.

Final Thoughts

At Arkansas Pergolas & Shadeworx, we’re proud to offer a range of premium wood options for your pergola or pavilion. Whether you choose Western Red Cedar for its refined elegance or opt for our locally milled Eastern Red Cedar as a beautiful, budget-conscious alternative, you can trust that you’re getting expert craftsmanship and top-tier materials every time.

Ready to build your dream outdoor space? Contact us today to explore your options or get a free quote!