Cedar is commonly believed to be a termite-repellent wood, but the truth is, these pests will eat it if they have to. That said, termites are less attracted to cedar than other types of wood. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, that’s because cedar contains allelochemicals. While the core of the cedar may be somewhat termite resistant, it does not fully repel the insects. For some homeowners, this extra layer of resistance and durability make cedar an appealing option.
Cedar shutters are built from Western Red Cedar. Cedar has a very low shrinkage factor when exposed to moisture and is superior to all other coniferous woods in its resistance to warping, twisting and checking. Cedar is known for its long lasting qualities if properly finished and maintained and can deliver decades of trouble-free service. If exposed for prolonged periods to conditions where decay could be a factor, such as where the wood is in contact with the ground, cedar should be treated with suitable wood preservatives.