Homeowners who want to amplify their outdoor spaces should consider investing in cedar. Cedar is a beautiful, durable, and versatile wood that you can use to construct decks, cozy furnishings, and custom accent pieces. Read our guide below for 10 cedar projects that can help you to transform your outdoor space into a beautiful and functional oasis.
Backyard Beauty
Cedar is resistant to rot, decay, and insect attacks, which makes it especially useful for outdoor projects. It’s durable, environmentally friendly, and it removes greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Other materials frequently emit dangerous pollutants during production and use.
All Decked Out
A cedar deck can make a dramatic statement in your yard, and serve as the centerpiece of your outdoor living space. Western Red Cedar has become especially popular as a decking material because of its natural beauty and durability. Contractors are partial to cedar because it’s lightweight and easy to use, and homeowners value its timeless style and long-lasting performance.
Cedar decks offer several advantages over other materials, such as the following:
- Ability to withstand harsh weather conditions
- Beautiful grain patterns and rich color variations
- Environmentally friendly and sustainable
- Natural resistance to decay and insects
Cedar also stays cool underfoot even on hot days, so you can use your deck all year long.
Add Some Shade
Add shade and definition to your outdoor space by constructing a cedar pergola. This structure creates a comfortable area that you can use for relaxation and entertainment. Building a pergola yourself can also be a rewarding do-it-yourself project. Cedar pergolas resist harsh weather and decay, and you can grow climbing plants around them.
Privacy Please
Construct a cedar privacy nook for a peaceful retreat that’s perfect for relaxation or reading. Privacy nooks offer natural wood aromas and built-in seating or storage, and cedar can withstand harsh outdoor conditions. You can adorn your nook with lattice panels or integrated planters to blend it into your garden space.
DIY Sectional
Build a cedar sectional sofa if you want comfortable seating and furniture that can withstand the elements. Sectionals are stylish, customizable, and resistant to insects and decay. DIY sectionals are also cost-efficient compared to pre-made outdoor furniture.
Dine Al Fresco
The bold, clean lines of a cedar table can complement any decor style, from traditional to contemporary. You can customize your table with finish, or let it develop a soft, silver patina naturally. A cedar table is durable, resistant to warping and splitting, and can endure harsh weather conditions. Pair your table with matching benches or chairs, or incorporate accessories such as lanterns or table runners, to complete the look.
Calling All Grill Masters
A cedar pergola-style BBQ cover allows you to grill year-round, no matter the weather. This attractive structure provides subtle shade during warm weather, and you can include an optional PVC cover that will allow you to use your BBQ space during inclement weather. The sloped, cantilever roof design adds a modern touch to your outdoor cooking area.
Consider add-on features such as lighting or ceiling fans, which will make your space comfortable in any season.
Open-Air Cooking
Cedar’s durability and aesthetic appeal make it a perfect choice for outdoor kitchen construction jobs. Incorporating features such as stainless-steel appliances, stone countertops, and weather-resistant fixtures can further enhance your outdoor kitchen’s appeal. This type of construction can be a significant investment, but there are ways to lower your lumber costs.
Storage Solution
Construct a compact cedar storage shed to help keep your backyard tidy and add rustic charm to your outdoor space. A storage shed is a perfect place to store gardening gear, lawn equipment, and other outdoor essentials, and a cedar shed is resistant to rot, decay, and insect attacks. Add windows for natural light or loft space for additional storage space.
Go Green
Construct a vertical cedar planter in which you can grow flowers, vegetables, or herbs in compact areas. These customizable planters are perfect for small yards or patios, and you can invest in tiered options to maximize your vertical space. A cedar planter will make your garden feel like an outdoor oasis.
In The Dog House
A cedar dog house provides a comfortable and stylish shelter for your canine companions. Dog houses that are made of composite materials can become uncomfortably hot in summer, but cedar stays cool even when it’s warm out. Cedar’s aroma can deter fleas and other pests, which offers an extra level of comfort and protection for your pet.
