Tongue and Groove Characteristics
Western Red Cedar tongue and groove is widely used for its good looks and versatility. It can be installed horizontally, vertically or diagonally, each method giving a distinctly different look. Tongue and groove cladding is available with rough or smooth faces. Both seasoned (kiln-dried) and unseasoned (green) cladding are available.
Joints
The joints between adjoining pieces are usually v-shaped but flush jointed, reveal and radius joints are also available. The different joints and surface textures in tongue and groove cladding combine to provide a range of shadow line effects that enhance the product’s versatility.
What Grades Are Available For Western Red Cedar Tongue and Groove Cladding?
Western Red Cedar tongue and groove cladding is available with rough or smooth faces. Both seasoned (kiln-dried) and unseasoned (green) cladding are available.
Tongue and groove cladding is manufactured in clear grades suitable for a more formal, elegant appearance, particularly when pieces are smooth faced. Knotty grades are in demand for their smart, casual look.
The joints between adjoining pieces are usually v-shaped but flush jointed, reveal and radius joints are also available. The different joints and surface textures in tongue and groove cladding combine to provide a range of shadow line effects that enhance the product’s versatility.
Clear Heart
The highest grade. Includes only pieces with heartwood on the exposed face. Many pieces completely clear, others have minor imperfections that do not detract from their fine appearance.
Grading Paragraph
NLGA 200a
WCLIB 102-b
WWPA 20.11
Mixed Grain (MG) or Vertical Grain (VG) may be specified
A Clear*
Permits somewhat more imperfections than Clear Heart but the grade is still restricted to pieces with excellent appearance.
* Common specifications are A and Better and A and Better with a percentage of B clear allowed.
Grading Paragraph
NLGA 200b / 200c
WCLIB 102-c
WWPA 20.12
Mixed Grain (MG) or Vertical Grain (VG) may be specified
Select Knotty
Available kiln dried or unseasoned. Knots are sound and tight.
*Common specifications is select Knotty with a percentage of quality Knotty allowed.
Grading Paragraph
NLGA 204a
WCLIB 111-e
WWPA N/A
Proprietary Grades
Designed to meet appearance requirements for cedar cladding and trim. Ask your WRCLA distributor for details.
*Manufacturers may market their own proprietary grades.
Grading Paragraph
NLGA N/A
WCLIB N/A
WWPA N/A
Standard and Better
Suitable for exterior construction. Occasional pieces may require trimming to yield suitable quality for the intended end use.
Grading Paragraph
NLGA 114a, b, c
WCLIB 118-a, b, c
NLGA – National Lumber Grades Authority
WCLIB – West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau
What sizes are available for Western Red Cedar Tongue and Groove Cladding?
Western Red Cedar Tongue and Groove Cladding is available in the following sizes:
| Nominal | Finished | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Green | Dry | ||
| Thickness (in.) | 1 | 3/4 | 11/16 |
| Widths (in.) | 4, 6, 8 | 3-9/16, 5-1/2, 7-3/8 | 3-3/8, 5-3/8, 7-1/8 |
What Is the Coverage of Western Red Cedar Tongue and Groove Cladding?
Tongue and Groove cladding coverage can be found in the following table for seasoned Western Red Cedar Cladding
Tongue and Groove Cladding Coverage Table For Dry (Seasoned) Cladding
| Nominal Width (in.) | Dressed Width (in.) | Exposed Face Width (in.) | Linear Feet Factor | Board Feet Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3-3/8 | 3 | 4.00 | 1.33 |
| 6 | 5-3/8 | 5 | 2.40 | 1.20 |
| 8 | 7-1/8 | 6-3/4 | 1.77 | 1.19 |
Where can I find technical information for Western Red Cedar Tongue and Groove Cladding?
The following information is required when specifying tongue and groove panelling products:
| Specification Information Required | Sample Specification |
|---|---|
| Species: Western Red Cedar | WRCLA Western Red Cedar |
| Product Pattern and Intended Use: Cladding is used as an exterior cladding to provide both weather protection and architectural style. The designer may choose from Edge V one side (EV1S) WRCLA1, Edge V two sides (EV2S), WRCLA2, or specific pattern number. | Tongue and Groove EV1S – WRCLA1 |
| Size: Specify the nominal size of the product. | 1 x 6″ |
| Grade: The grade of the product governs its overall quality. Refer to WRCLA specification literature or grading agency rule books for available grades. | Select Knotty |
| Grading Agency Paragraph: To ensure that the product meets a written standard, an agency grade paragraph should be referenced. | NLGA para. 204a |
| Moisture Content: Specify whether the product is to be green (unseasoned) or kiln-dried. | Kiln-dried |
| Surface to be exposed: Specify the application orientation to assist the supplier in shipping the right product for the job. | Sawn face |
| Quantity: Express in board feet the quantity required. See WRCLA table for factor to convert square feet of wall area to board feet. | 5500 board feet |
