Ever wondered why cedar plywood is a favorite among home enthusiasts? Its unique properties make it stand out. From a fresh cedar aroma to incredible durability, cedar plywood is a versatile option for various home projects. Let’s explore the top choices and see why they might be perfect for your next endeavor.
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Cedar plywood combines the natural aromatic properties and insect-resistant qualities of cedar with the engineered strength of layered wood construction, making it an ideal choice for closet linings, decorative panels, and craft projects. With prices ranging from $17.85 for small 24″x24″ sheets to $129.60 for full 48″x96″ panels, this versatile material offers both functional benefits and aesthetic appeal for 2025 home improvement projects.
What Is Cedar Plywood?
Cedar plywood is an engineered wood product created by bonding thin layers of cedar veneer together with adhesive. This construction method combines the structural integrity of plywood with cedar’s natural properties, including its distinctive aroma and resistance to decay and insects. The result is a material that’s both practical and aesthetically pleasing for various applications.
The manufacturing process creates a balanced panel that resists warping while maintaining cedar’s characteristic scent and grain patterns. This makes it particularly popular for interior applications where both appearance and functionality matter. Cedar plywood offers excellent dimensional stability compared to solid cedar boards, reducing the risk of splitting or cupping over time.
Most cedar plywood uses aromatic red cedar as the face veneer, providing the moth-repelling properties that make it perfect for closet installations. The core layers may consist of other wood species or engineered materials, depending on the manufacturer and intended use. This hybrid construction keeps costs reasonable while preserving cedar’s most desirable characteristics.
Key Benefits and Features of Cedar Plywood
The most distinctive feature of cedar plywood is its natural aroma, which provides a fresh, woodsy scent that many people find appealing. This aromatic quality isn’t just pleasant—it actively repels moths, silverfish, and other insects that can damage clothing and stored items. The scent remains active for years, making it an excellent long-term investment for storage areas.
- Naturally rot-resistant and moisture-tolerant for humid environments
- Lightweight construction compared to hardwood alternatives
- Attractive grain patterns that add visual warmth to any space
- Available in both pre-finished and unfinished options
- Easy to cut, sand, and work with standard woodworking tools
Cedar plywood’s durability characteristics make it suitable for both indoor and some outdoor applications. The natural oils in cedar provide resistance to decay and insect damage, extending the material’s lifespan compared to many other wood products. This durability, combined with its relatively light weight, makes installation easier for DIY projects.
The material works exceptionally well for laser cutting and engraving projects, producing clean edges and detailed patterns without excessive burning or charring. This makes it popular among crafters and makers who use CNC machines or laser cutters for custom projects.
Top 5 Cedar Plywood Products for 2025
I’ve selected these top-rated cedar plywood options based on quality, versatility, and customer satisfaction ratings:
Finished Aromatic Cedar Plywood Sheets
- Excellent for CNC and laser projects
- Pre-finished for immediate use
- Emits cedar aroma naturally
- Versatile for crafting and engraving
- High-quality cedar plywood
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Aromatic Cedar Cutting Board Pack
- Ideal for cutting boards or craft projects
- Pleasant cedar fragrance
- Durable solid hardwood
- Easy to work with
- Sustainable wood source
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Premium Cedar Sheets for Glowforge
- Glowforge compatible for seamless crafting
- Offers smooth finish on both sides
- Strong MDF core for durability
- Provides natural cedar aroma
- Optimal for artistic projects
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Customizable Red Cedar Wood Boards
- Flexible width options
- Ideal for DIY enthusiasts
- Adds rustic charm to projects
- Durable solid wood
- Easy to sand and finish
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Rustic Aromatic Cedar Craft Boards
- Rich cedar scent for freshness
- Great for artisanal projects
- Durable and strong
- Provides a natural rustic feel
- Ideal for indoor craft decoration
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Cedar Plywood vs. Other Popular Plywood Types
Understanding how cedar plywood compares to other materials helps you make the best choice for your specific project needs. Each plywood type offers distinct advantages depending on your application and budget requirements.
| Feature | Cedar Plywood | Baltic Birch Plywood | Maple Plywood | Luan Plywood |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Wood Species | Cedar | Birch | Maple | Tropical hardwood |
| Durability | High (rot/insect resistant) | High, very strong | Medium to high | Low to medium |
| Insect Resistance | Excellent | Good | Moderate | Low |
| Appearance | Distinct grain, aromatic | Light, fine grain, uniform | Smooth, pale, even grain | Reddish, uniform |
| Cost | Moderate to high | High (premium) | Moderate | Lowest |
| Best Applications | Closets, décor, crafts | Cabinetry, furniture, jigs | Furniture, cabinetry | Underlayment, crafts |
Baltic birch plywood excels in structural applications requiring maximum strength and smooth surfaces, making it ideal for furniture and cabinetry. However, it lacks cedar’s natural aromatic and insect-repelling properties. Plywood grades vary significantly between species, affecting both price and performance.
Maple plywood offers excellent paintability and a smooth finish, but doesn’t provide the natural pest resistance that makes cedar plywood special for storage applications. Luan plywood serves as the most economical option but lacks the durability and distinctive characteristics of cedar.
Common Uses and Applications
Closet lining represents the most popular application for cedar plywood, taking advantage of its moth-repelling properties to protect clothing and linens. The panels can be installed directly over existing walls or used to create custom storage solutions that maintain their protective qualities for years.
- Decorative interior accent walls in bedrooms and living spaces
- Custom storage boxes and jewelry cases
- Laser cutting and CNC machining projects
- Shelf liners and drawer bottoms for natural freshness
- Rustic décor elements and craft projects
The material’s workability makes it excellent for detailed craft projects and artistic applications. Many makers choose cedar plywood for laser engraving because it produces clean, precise cuts with minimal burning. The natural aroma adds an extra sensory dimension to finished pieces.
Interior paneling applications benefit from cedar’s visual warmth and natural grain patterns. The material can be stained or left natural, depending on the desired aesthetic. Its lightweight nature makes installation easier compared to solid wood paneling options.
How to Choose the Right Cedar Plywood
Thickness selection depends on your project’s structural requirements and intended use. Quarter-inch (1/4″) sheets work well for craft projects and thin paneling, while half-inch (1/2″) and three-quarter-inch (3/4″) options provide more strength for shelving and structural applications.
Size and Grade Considerations
Standard sheet sizes range from 24″x24″ craft squares to full 48″x96″ panels, allowing you to match material quantity to project needs without excessive waste. Smaller sizes cost more per square foot but reduce handling difficulties and shipping costs for small projects.
Clear-grade cedar plywood offers uniform appearance with minimal knots, making it ideal for visible surfaces where appearance matters most. Knotty grades cost less and provide rustic character that many people prefer for casual or country-style applications. Cabinet plywood grades follow similar classification systems.
Pre-finished options save time and effort but limit customization possibilities. Unfinished cedar plywood allows you to apply stains, paints, or clear coats that match your specific design vision. Consider your skill level and available time when choosing between these options.
Pricing and Market Trends for 2025
Current cedar plywood pricing reflects ongoing lumber market fluctuations, with 1/4″ good-one-side sheets ranging from $17.85 for 24″x24″ pieces to $129.60 for full 48″x96″ panels. According to WoodNShop, these prices represent stable market conditions compared to recent volatility.
- 24″x24″ sheets: $17.85
- 24″x47″ sheets: $35.65
- 48″x48″ sheets: $64.80
- 48″x96″ sheets: $129.60
Market forecasts suggest continued price stability through 2025, with cedar plywood maintaining its premium position over budget alternatives like luan plywood while remaining competitive with specialty hardwood options. Lumber price analysts expect gradual normalization after recent market disruptions.
Regional variations affect pricing, with transportation costs adding to final prices in areas distant from cedar-producing regions. Bulk purchasing can reduce per-sheet costs, making larger projects more economical when material requirements justify full-sheet purchases.
Additional Cedar Storage Solutions
Beyond plywood panels, these complementary cedar products can enhance your storage and organization systems:
Cedar Closet Storage Panels, 10-Pack
- Enhance closet freshness naturally
- Protects clothing from moths
- Long-lasting cedar aroma
- Easy to install
- Versatile, fits any closet space
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Scented Cedar Blocks for Storage
- Keeps clothes fresh and fragrant
- Natural moth repellent
- Easy to use in closets or drawers
- Long-lasting cedar scent
- Compact for versatile storage
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Aromatic Cedar Storage Blocks
- Natural moth protection for clothing
- Restores freshness to storage areas
- Compact size fits drawers and closets
- Made from 100% aromatic cedar
- Easy to use in any space
Buy on Amazon
Care and Maintenance Tips
Proper maintenance preserves cedar plywood’s appearance and aromatic properties for years. Regular dusting with a soft, dry cloth prevents buildup that can dull the natural grain patterns. Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive moisture that might damage the wood fibers or adhesive bonds.
For projects exposed to humidity, apply appropriate wood sealers to edges and surfaces to prevent moisture penetration. Light sanding every few years can refresh the surface and restore fading aroma. Cedar wood naturally develops a silvery patina over time when exposed to light and air.
Avoid oil-based finishes that might block cedar’s natural scent emission. Water-based sealers and clear coats preserve the wood while allowing aromatic compounds to continue providing their beneficial effects. Store unused sheets in dry locations away from direct sunlight to prevent warping or color changes.
FAQs
What Are The Benefits Of Using Cedar Plywood For Outdoor Projects?
Cedar plywood is naturally resistant to decay, rot, and insect damage due to the presence of natural oils. It is also lightweight, easy to work with, and has a beautiful appearance, making it ideal for outdoor projects like decks and furniture.
How Does Cedar Plywood Compare To Regular Plywood?
Cedar plywood is generally more durable and resistant to the elements compared to regular plywood. It offers better insulation and has a distinctive, attractive grain that enhances the aesthetic appeal of projects.
Is Cedar Plywood Waterproof Or Does It Require Sealing?
While cedar plywood has some natural water resistance, it is not completely waterproof. It is recommended to apply a suitable sealant or finish to improve its water resistance and prolong the lifespan of your projects.
Where Can I Buy High-Quality Cedar Plywood?
You can purchase high-quality cedar plywood from home improvement stores, specialty lumber suppliers, or online retailers. It is important to check for the grade and quality of plywood to ensure it meets your specific needs.
How Do I Properly Maintain Cedar Plywood To Prevent Warping?
To maintain cedar plywood and prevent warping, keep it dry and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture. Regularly apply sealants or finishes to protect the surface and clean it regularly to prevent mold and mildew buildup.
