Cedar Plywood: A Complete DIY & Builder’s Guide

Cedar-lined closet with warm reddish-brown plywood panels and hanging clothes.

If you’ve ever stepped into a cedar-lined closet or opened an old cedar chest, you know the scent. That fresh, woodsy smell isn’t just nostalgic—it’s practical. Cedar plywood has been trusted in American homes for centuries, thanks to its durability, insect resistance, and timeless beauty. Back in colonial New England, settlers relied on cedar for … Read more

Sheathing Plywood? Complete Guide for Builders & DIYers

Close-up view of exterior wall framing with plywood sheathing partially installed.

If you’ve ever built a house, shed, or garage, you’ve probably heard the term “sheathing plywood.” But what is sheathing plywood, and why is it so important in construction? In simple terms, it’s the layer of plywood that strengthens exterior walls, roofs, and floors before the finish materials go on. Without sheathing, walls sway if … Read more

Redwood: The Timeless Giant of Woodworking

Stack of milled redwood boards showing rich reddish-brown tones and straight grain

Redwood isn’t just a wood — it’s a symbol of natural beauty, longevity, and craftsmanship. From the towering coastal trees of California to the finely milled boards in your local lumber yard, redwood has a history and set of properties that make it stand out from almost every other building material. I’ve worked with redwood … Read more

Hardwood vs Softwood: What’s the Difference & When to Use Each

Side-by-side comparison of hardwood and softwood boards on a workshop bench, labeled clearly for visual contrast in color and grain.

Whether you’re building a new deck, selecting wood for cabinetry, or crafting a piece of heirloom furniture, the choice between hardwood and softwood is foundational. Despite what their names imply, the difference isn’t simply about hardness—it’s about botanical origin, growth pattern, and ideal use. In this guide, we’ll break down how hardwoods and softwoods compare, … Read more