At Northern Lights Hot Tubs, we craft all our tubs exclusively from Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata), a species native to the lush forests of British Columbia, Canada. This special cedar has been used and loved for centuries, which you can see in traditional crafts and outdoor construction, like your hot tub.
Origins
Western Red Cedar grows naturally along the Pacific Coast, from Alaska down through British Columbia. Thriving in the region’s cool, damp forests, it’s famous for growing tall, straight, and strong. Also known by the First Nations as the “Tree of Life,” this species has sheltered generations and stood for centuries as a symbol of endurance. Many ancient totem poles carved from it still stand, as if they were built yesterday.
Natural durability
The common misconception about wood is that it harbors bacteria, will leak, or even rot. That couldn’t be further from the truth. One of red cedar’s hidden strengths lies in its ability to resist rot and expand when wet. That’s how your tub seals itself naturally without needing plastic, glue, or harsh chemical treatments. This makes it ideal for outdoor use, as it keeps its structure and beauty even in wet or humid environments, with minimal maintenance.
Cedar’s insulation properties
Cedar is also naturally lightweight and has a unique cellular structure that traps air, giving it excellent thermal insulation. This helps it stay warm while staying cool to the touch. It’s also highly stable, meaning it won’t easily warp, crack, or swell when exposed to changing weather, another reason it performs so well outdoors.
Craftsmanship & appearance
Woodworkers love Western Red Cedar for its straight, even grain and smooth texture. It’s easy to shape, sand, and refine, and its natural oils reduce splintering. Visually, Western Red Cedar stands out for its rich, warm tones, ranging from soft amber to deeper reddish hues. Over time, it can gently fade into a silver-grey, giving it a timeless, weathered elegance. If you prefer to maintain its original glow, a light oil finish easily preserves does the trick.
Aroma
Cedar’s warm and soothing scent is more than just pleasant; it’s part of what makes it so perfect for a hot tub. Its natural aroma comes from the tree’s oils, which also help deter certain insects. For many, that familiar cedar fragrance brings an immediate sense of calm and connection to nature, perfect for a relaxing soak.
Sustainability
Western Red Cedar is not only beautiful, it’s also a responsible choice. It’s one of North America’s most sustainably managed species, harvested under strict forest certification programs like FSC, SFI, and CSA. The forests are carefully maintained, with millions of trees replanted each year to ensure the balance of the ecosystem. Choosing this cedar means choosing a material that’s as kind to the planet as it is enduring.
Conclusion
Western Red Cedar represents the perfect balance between nature’s artistry and functional excellence. Its warmth, durability, and sustainability make it a material that not only performs beautifully but also tells a story of craftsmanship and respect for the environment. Learn more about Western Red Cedar.
