Why Western Red Cedar Is the Best Wood for Saunas
When it comes to building a sauna that will last decades and deliver the best possible experience, the choice of wood matters enormously. Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) — native to the Pacific Northwest coast of Canada — has been the preferred sauna wood for generations. Here's why.
Natural Moisture Resistance
Western Red Cedar contains natural oils called thujaplicins that make it exceptionally resistant to moisture, rot, and fungal decay. In a sauna environment where humidity can reach 100% during steam sessions, this natural resistance is critical. Unlike other woods that can warp, crack, or develop mold in high-moisture environments, Western Red Cedar maintains its structural integrity for decades.
Superior Thermal Properties
Cedar has one of the lowest thermal conductivities of any wood, meaning it doesn't absorb and retain heat the way denser woods do. This translates to two practical benefits:
Aromatic Benefits
When heated, Western Red Cedar releases a subtle, pleasant aroma that many sauna users find deeply relaxing. These natural aromatic compounds (primarily plicatic acid) have been shown to have mild antimicrobial properties and may contribute to the respiratory benefits of sauna use. The scent is gentle — never overpowering — and becomes a signature part of your sauna ritual.
Dimensional Stability
Cedar is remarkably stable through cycles of heating and cooling, expansion and contraction. Where other woods might develop gaps, cracks, or warping after repeated thermal cycling, cedar maintains tight joints and smooth surfaces. This stability means your sauna looks and performs like new for years.
Sustainability
Canadian Western Red Cedar is harvested from sustainably managed forests under strict provincial regulations. At Procraft, we source our cedar through eco-friendly milling practices that minimize waste and environmental impact. The wood's natural longevity (50+ year lifespan in outdoor applications) means less replacement and less waste over time.
How Cedar Compares to Other Sauna Woods
| Property | Western Red Cedar | Hemlock | Basswood | Spruce |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moisture resistance | Excellent | Fair | Poor | Fair |
| Thermal comfort | Excellent | Good | Good | Fair |
| Aroma | Pleasant, subtle | Minimal | None | Resinous |
| Durability (outdoor) | 50+ years | 15-20 years | Indoor only | 10-15 years |
| Dimensional stability | Excellent | Good | Good | Fair |
| Cost | Premium | Moderate | Budget | Budget |
The Procraft Difference
All Procraft saunas are built exclusively from premium Canadian Western Red Cedar — never a blend or substitute. We select clear, tight-grain cedar for maximum beauty and performance, and our eco-friendly milling process ensures minimal waste. The result is a sauna that looks stunning, performs flawlessly, and will last a lifetime.