Cedar Properties

• Most red cedar is grown along the western coast of the United States, from Alaska down to California. Red cedar is considered a softwood, and has a density of 22 pounds per cubic foot. This low density gives cedar excellent insulation abilities. Red cedar is resistant to disease and fungal damage. A secretion present in the wood also makes it highly resistant to insects. Red cedar can start out any color from brown to pink, but will eventually turn reddish-brown, and finally gray if exposed to the elements for extended periods.
  
  

Pine Properties

• Yellow pine is mostly grown on the east coast of the United States to some of the interior eastern states, such as Iowa and Pennsylvania. The pine prefers acidic soils that are found in these regions. Since the wood grows over such as large area, it is one of the least expensive forms of pine wood. Yellow pine is considered one of the hardest forms of pine, and has uses in rougher conditions. Yellow pine ranges anywhere from yellowish-white to reddish brown or even orange in color. Yellow pine has a moderate or low resistance to disease, fungus and decay.
  
  

Benefits

• There are many benefits to both red cedar and yellow pine. Red cedar is resistant to disease and decay, making it an ideal wood for outdoor furniture use. Red cedar is easy to shape and stain, which makes it ideal for many carved furniture pieces. Yellow pine is one of the hardest softwoods. This makes it ideal for use with furniture that will receive a lot of use, such as tables, chairs and beds.
  
  

Disadvantages

• The main disadvantage of red cedar furniture is that any furniture made with red cedar typically looks rustic. Cedar furniture may look out of place in formal locations. Cedar furniture may also cause allergic reactions in individuals who are allergic to cedar wood, and the softness of the wood makes it prone to nicks and scratches. Yellow pine furniture cannot be used outdoors because of its low resistance to fungus and disease. Yellow pine furniture also has a rustic appearance that will not go with formal decorating styles.
  
  

Cost

• Because yellow pine is one of the most commonly seen forms of pine wood, it is less expensive than many other furniture types. Red cedar furniture will be more expensive because it is sold almost exclusively as outdoor furniture. This drives the price higher.