Is all redwood suitable outdoors?

Only heartwood has decay resistance. Sapwood rots like untreated softwood. Look for All Heart grades.

How prevent tannin staining concrete?

Finish before installation. Wash fresh stains with oxalic acid.

Water-based or oil-based stain?

Both work. Oil penetrates deeper; water-based has lower VOC.

Decking

siding

fencing

outdoor furniture

hot tub surrounds

pergolas

garden structures

How to Finish Redwood: Complete Staining & Sealing Guide (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Finishing Team

|Last updated June 9, 2026|Sources & methodology

Redwood is one of America's most beautiful and naturally durable softwoods, prized for its rich reddish-brown color and outstanding weather resistance. Its natural tannins provide insect and decay resistance, making it ideal for outdoor projects.

Key Takeaways

Redwood is one of America's most beautiful and naturally durable softwoods, prized for its rich reddish-brown color and outstanding weather resistance.
Its natural tannins provide insect and decay resistance, making it ideal for outdoor projects.
Semi-transparent exterior stain with UV inhibitors; penetrating exterior oil (Penofin, TWP); water-based exterior finish for lighter look; clear water repellent for natural appearance.
Straight grain with fine, even texture.
Deep reddish-brown heartwood with lighter sapwood.

Wood Characteristics

Straight grain with fine, even texture. Non-porous softwood. 420 Janka, soft. Deep reddish-brown heartwood with lighter sapwood. Very high tannin with significant bleed potential.

Recommended Finishes

Semi-transparent exterior stain with UV inhibitors; penetrating exterior oil (Penofin, TWP); water-based exterior finish for lighter look; clear water repellent for natural appearance.

Preparation Steps

Sand lightly 120-150 grit. Remove mill glaze with light sanding or brightener. Allow new redwood to weather 2-4 weeks before staining. Low-pressure wash only.

Application Steps

1. Clean and dry completely. 2. Apply semi-transparent stain or oil with brush or pad. 3. Work with grain, maintain wet edges. 4. Back-brush for coverage. 5. Second coat wet-on-wet if recommended. 6. Dry 24-48 hours. 7. Interior: 2-3 coats water-based finish.

Maintenance Schedule

Exterior stain: reapply every 2-3 years vertical, annually for decks. Oil: reapply annually. Unfinished weathers to gray in a year. Interior: refinish every 8-10 years.

Common Mistakes

Film-forming finishes on decks peel; not planning for tannin bleed on concrete; applying to wet wood; pressure washing too aggressively.

Interior vs Exterior

Interior: Stunning paneling, ceilings, accent walls. Clear matte finish preserves beauty. Exterior: Excellent outdoor wood. Semi-transparent stain is ideal. Avoid solid stain or paint which crack and peel.