What Is a Cedar?

Cedar is a rot- and insect-resistant softwood — usually western red cedar — that is the traditional premium wood for pergolas and pavilions.

Cedar is a naturally durable softwood prized for outdoor structures because its oils resist rot, decay, and insects without chemical treatment. It is dimensionally stable, takes stain well, and weathers to a silver-gray if left unfinished. Cedar is the most popular wood for custom pergolas and timber-frame pavilions.