Redwood vs Cedar: Which is Harder?

When comparing the hardness of redwood and cedar, it's essential to consider the Janka hardness test, a standard measure of the resistance of wood to denting and wear. This test involves measuring the force required to embed a small steel ball into the wood. Let's delve into the details and find out which of these two popular woods is harder.

Redwood, known for its towering height and longevity, is a popular choice for outdoor applications due to its natural resistance to rot and decay. Cedar, on the other hand, is renowned for its distinct aroma and is often used in closets and chests to repel moths. But how do they fare in terms of hardness?

Janka Hardness Test Results

The Janka hardness test provides a clear picture. Redwood species typically score between 400 and 800 pounds-force (lbf), while cedar species usually fall between 300 and 600 lbf. These numbers indicate that redwood is generally harder than cedar.

However, it's crucial to note that the hardness of wood can vary significantly depending on the species. For instance, Western Red Cedar is softer than its Eastern counterpart, while Coast Redwood is harder than Giant Sequoia.

Redwood Species and Their Hardness

Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) is one of the hardest redwood species, with a Janka hardness rating of around 800 lbf. This makes it one of the hardest domestic woods available. In contrast, Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) is softer, with a rating of about 500 lbf.

Other redwood species, like Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) and Larch (Larix spp.), also exhibit varying degrees of hardness, but they are generally harder than most cedar species.

Cedar Species and Their Hardness

Eastern White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis) is one of the hardest cedar species, with a Janka hardness rating of around 600 lbf. However, Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) is softer, with a rating of about 350 lbf. This is significantly softer than most redwood species.

Other cedar species, like Incense Cedar (Cedrus atlantica) and Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani), also exhibit varying degrees of hardness, but they are generally softer than redwood.

Other Factors Affecting Hardness

Besides species, other factors can influence the hardness of wood. For instance, the age and growth rate of the tree can affect its density and, consequently, its hardness. Additionally, the direction of the grain and the presence of knots can also impact the hardness of wood.

Moisture content is another crucial factor. Wood is harder when it's dry and softer when it's wet. Therefore, the moisture content of the wood at the time of testing can significantly affect the Janka hardness rating.

In the end, while redwood is generally harder than cedar, the specific hardness of each wood can vary significantly depending on the species and other factors. When choosing between redwood and cedar for a project, consider not just their hardness, but also their other properties, such as durability, workability, and aesthetic appeal.