Spanish Cedar is not aptly named for many reasons. This species of wood is not a cedar but a hardwood and it is not Spanish in origin. Hailing from the Meliaceae family alongside Genuine Mahogany, this lumber is prized for beautiful color and gorgeous grain patterns. Spanish Cedar is also remarkably workable, responsive to both hand and power tools.
Traditional uses often place a name on lumber. Spanish Cedar wood is thus named Cigar-box Cedar because of its wide use in cigar box creations. The wood gives off a natural insect repelling scent, which kept the cigars safe from unwanted pests. The high resin count resulting in weather and rot resistance also contributed to its popularity. Additionally, Spanish Cedar is low density and lightweight. These qualities make it perfect for high quality exterior work.
Alternately, the low density of Spanish Cedar also denotes less stability. This type of tree grows slower than others, thus causing the low density. Genuine Mahogany, for which Spanish Cedar is a substitute, produces more stability. Using either on a project will produce beautiful and safe results; however, the end product may require more work. Spanish Cedar needs careful drying in order to remain stable. Without proper equipment, warping and weeping both occur on a regular basis. J. Gibson McIlvain, an east coat wholesale lumber supplier, has just the right tools to safely dry Spanish Cedar. Their kilns are some of the most unique in all of North America. The temperatures for Spanish Cedar are reached easily with J. Gibson McIlvain due to their vast experience.
The demand fro Spanish Cedar does not diminish just because it can be difficult. Availability is high with Spanish Cedar finding its way onto CITES Appendix III. A lumber on this list is in danger of over use. Due to this new stigma, many questionable Spanish Cedar suppliers have moved to lower quality or even illegal lumber. Popularity and slow growth rate are both contributing to this crisis.
J. Gibson McIlvain still sources reliable high quality Spanish Cedar, even during economic downturns. The balance between environmental protection, the right price and customer satisfaction is a very important aspect of J. Gibson McIlvain. High quality Spanish Cedar remains so popular because of the desirable qualities it possesses. J. Gibson McIlvain works closely with certified plantations and natural sources for the best possible Spanish Cedar lumber. Their customers are very happy with the Spanish Cedar supply, you will be too.
Want to learn more about lumber?
Leave a Reply