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Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) Hardwood
California Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) is one of the most iconic and naturally durable softwoods in the world. Its heartwood contains natural tannins and extractives that provide exceptional resist...
Janka Hardness
450 lbf
Decay Resistance
Excellent
Lifespan
25-30+ years
Density
28 lbs/ft³
What Is Redwood Wood?
California Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) is one of the most iconic and naturally durable softwoods in the world. Its heartwood contains natural tannins and extractives that provide exceptional resistance to decay, insects, and moisture — making it a premium choice for outdoor construction without chemical treatment.
Redwood's signature rich reddish-brown color, straight grain, and natural beauty have made it the traditional decking and siding choice in the western United States for over a century. It's lightweight, dimensionally stable, and easy to work with standard tools.
While soft (450 lbf Janka), Redwood heartwood offers decay resistance rivaling many tropical hardwoods. The trees themselves are the tallest living organisms on Earth, growing over 350 feet in old-growth forests. Today's commercial Redwood comes from sustainably managed second-growth plantations, ensuring responsible forestry practices.
Key Facts
- Natural tannins provide excellent decay and insect resistance
- Signature reddish-brown color beloved in western US architecture
- Lightweight and easy to work — no special tools required
- Sustainably harvested from managed second-growth forests
- Dimensionally stable with minimal warping or cupping
- The traditional choice for West Coast decking and siding
Why Choose Redwood?
Natural Durability
Heartwood tannins resist decay, rot, and insects without chemical treatment
Iconic Beauty
Rich reddish-brown color and straight grain create a warm, classic appearance
Lightweight
One of the lightest structural woods — easy to handle, cut, and install
Dimensionally Stable
Minimal shrinking, swelling, and warping compared to other softwoods
Easy to Work
Cuts and shapes effortlessly with standard hand and power tools
Chemical-Free
Natural durability means no need for pressure treatment or preservatives
Common Applications
Redwood is well-suited for a range of interior and exterior applications.
Decking
The traditional West Coast choice for residential and commercial decking
Siding & Shingles
Exterior siding, shakes, and shingles with natural beauty
Fencing
Privacy fences and property boundaries with lasting durability
Outdoor Structures
Pergolas, arbors, gazebos, and garden structures
Retaining Walls
Landscape timbers and garden bed construction
Hot Tub Surrounds
Moisture-rich environments where natural decay resistance is essential
Redwood by Application
Learn how Redwood performs across different project types.
Redwood Decking
Redwood decking is the traditional West Coast choice for beautiful, naturally durable outdoor living spaces. Its heartwood tannins resist rot, decay, and insects without chemical treatment — a rare property among domestic species. Redwood's signature reddish-brown color creates a warm, inviting deck surface that can be maintained with annual staining or left to weather to an attractive silver-gray patina. The wood is lightweight (28 lbs/ft³), easy to cut and fasten, and stays relatively cool in sunlight due to its lower density. For West Coast homeowners who value natural beauty and chemical-free durability, redwood decking provides a premium 25-30+ year outdoor solution.
Explore all decking optionsRedwood Siding
Redwood siding has protected California homes for over a century, and its reputation for lasting beauty is well-earned. The heartwood's natural preservatives resist rot, insects, and fungal decay without any chemical treatment — making it safe for family environments. Redwood's excellent dimensional stability produces tight-fitting lap siding, shingles, and board-and-batten installations that resist warping and cupping. The wood takes paint, stain, and transparent finishes beautifully, offering unlimited design flexibility. Its lightweight nature makes it easy for siding contractors to handle and install, and the natural reddish-brown color adds warm curb appeal to any architectural style.
Explore all siding optionsRedwood Fencing
Redwood fencing combines natural beauty with chemical-free rot resistance for a premium property boundary that lasts decades. Heartwood fence posts and pickets resist the ground-level moisture and insect exposure that quickly destroys untreated pine. Redwood's straight grain splits cleanly for rustic split-rail fences, or mills into smooth pickets for polished privacy fencing. The warm reddish-brown color weathers to a distinguished silver-gray, adding character with age. Redwood fencing typically lasts 20-30+ years — far exceeding the 10-15 year lifespan of cedar or treated pine alternatives. For West Coast properties, redwood fencing is a natural investment in lasting curb appeal.
Explore all fencing optionsInstallation & Working Tips
- Standard tools cut and shape Redwood easily — no special tooling needed
- No pre-drilling required for most applications
- Use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners to prevent staining
- Allow 5-7 days for acclimation before installation
- Specify heartwood for maximum decay resistance — sapwood has no natural protection
- Apply end sealer to cut ends to prevent checking
For complete guidance, see our installation guide and custom milling services.
Maintenance & Care
Redwood heartwood requires minimal maintenance for structural protection. Cosmetic maintenance preserves the signature red color.
Color Preservation
Apply UV-protective stain or clear finish annually to maintain the reddish-brown color. Without finish, Redwood weathers to a handsome silver-gray while remaining structurally sound.
Cleaning
Clean with a deck brightener or mild soap and water annually. Pressure wash on low setting for deeper cleaning. This removes surface mildew and restores wood appearance.
Heartwood vs Sapwood
Only heartwood has natural decay resistance. Sapwood (lighter colored) will decay if exposed to moisture. Always specify heartwood for outdoor applications.
Important Considerations
Soft Surface
At 450 lbf, Redwood scratches and dents easily. Furniture pads and care are needed for deck surfaces.
Regional Pricing
Most affordable on the West Coast. Shipping east significantly increases cost, making tropical hardwoods competitive.
Sapwood Not Durable
Only heartwood resists decay. Mixed-heartwood/sapwood boards (lower grades) offer less protection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Redwood
Quick answers to common questions