If you are shopping for dog houses, you will find numerous options and styles from which to choose. Dog houses come in a variety of materials, too. One of these is cedar, a type of stable softwood. Cedar dog houses work well outdoors because of the properties of cedar wood. It resists rot, bacteria, and fungus. Cedar also repels insects that normally destroy wood. Cedar wood naturally resists splintering and cracking. The internal structure of the wood increases its insulation value. As added bonuses, it usually offers beautiful coloring梡articular red cedar, and its signature smell covers less pleasant odors that pets sometimes give off.
Cedar dog houses resist rot because cedar doesn抰 hold moisture as long as many other woods do. Particularly in more humid climates, cedar dog houses make excellent choices because they do not decay like other wood structures do. Since cedar also resists bacteria and fungus, it can enjoy a long life of usefulness. Cedar wood has been used as external siding for houses, and after 100 years, has needed little maintenance or replacement.
Cedar wood produces a natural oil that gives off its signature smell. This oil is also responsible for repelling insects that often destroy wood. This quality is another reason that cedar can easily last for over 100 years with little or no maintenance.
The wood resists splintering and cracking that so often degrades other types of wood in outdoor structures. Although its initial cost can be high, its durability is also high. Cedar dog houses are solid investments for pets.
Cedar dog houses usually make a comfortable shelter for pets, as well. Cedar wood抯 internal structure traps little pockets of air. These air pockets increase the insulation of the structure. This is the same way that a raised floor or platform under the dog house increases insulation. It traps air underneath the floor. This air, both under the floor and in the cedar wood, helps to keep the dog house warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer梛ust as insulation in your house works. If you plan to use a heating and air conditioning unit, cedar will help you to use less energy to maintain the temperature inside your pet抯 home.
Finally, cedar smells pleasant and fresh to humans. The natural oils give cedar a fragrance that covers other unpleasant smells that dogs can emit. Dog beds are sometimes filled with cedar chips for this reason.
Cedar dog houses may outlast other wooden shelters. Because of their resistance to moisture, insects, weathering, and warping, they are quite durable. The wood increases the insulation of the structure and, therefore, the comfort of your pet. In addition, cedar抯 aesthetic qualities add to the value of your investment. Some woods can resist rot, but must first be treated with chemicals. Plastics may come with insulation, but cedar does all these things naturally. You抣l find a number of plastic, wood, and even metal options, but what other material can do all the other things cedar can do?
