Species and grade are different choices
| Choice | Appearance | GCS availability and price position |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern white cedar | Generally pale wood with natural colour and knot variation. | The listed base wood for many GCS sauna models, including Summit and barrel models. |
| Knotty Western red cedar | Warmer red-brown tones with visible knots and a rustic appearance. | Listed as an upgrade on selected barrel and Birdhouse models; check the individual product’s options. |
| Clear Western red cedar | A more uniform appearance with fewer natural characteristics; clear is an appearance grade, not a different species. | A higher-priced option where offered. Some packages already specify clear red cedar for benches or the door. |
Look at the whole material list
A white cedar sauna can include red cedar benches or a red cedar door. That does not mean the wall package is clear red cedar. Ask which wood is used for the walls, seating, door and any roof covering. Both the barrel collection and Birdhouse collection list model-specific cedar choices.
The Summit uses solid Eastern white cedar logs. Do not assume a red cedar upgrade listed for a barrel is also available on the Summit; ask us about your particular build.
Aroma, weather exposure and care
Cedar has a characteristic natural aroma. Its intensity varies with the individual wood, age, ventilation and use, so a species name cannot guarantee how strongly a finished sauna will smell.
Western red cedar is used in sauna construction and exterior applications. Species alone does not determine how long an outdoor sauna will last. Roof detailing, drainage, ventilation and maintenance also matter. Keep the wood out of standing water and follow the care instructions for the particular sauna and finish.
What does the upgrade change?
Compare the actual quoted price and the components included in the upgrade. A higher appearance grade is primarily a visual choice; it is not proof of a health benefit, a guaranteed lifespan or a particular insulation rating. Inspect our real product photos and ask to see a current sample before deciding.
Wood references: Western Red Cedar Lumber Association grade descriptions, Western red cedar sauna applications and Natural Resources Canada’s Eastern white-cedar profile. GCS availability and pricing come from the individual product listings.