Redwood Wood Guide 2026
Sequoia sempervirens
Typically described as naturally durable coastal softwood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 47 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Softwood
- Origin: United States
- Common uses include Decking, Siding, Fencing
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Medium
Workability: Soft, easy to work; splits if nailed near edges.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: Takes stains well; use stain-blocking primer under paint.
Color change: Reddish brown grays without finish.
Insect resistance: Heartwood resistant; sapwood not
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Redwood. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Nominal widths 4–12 in. | 8–20 ft | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Nominal widths 4–12 in. | 8–20 ft | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Nominal widths 4–12 in. | 8–20 ft | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Nominal widths 4–12 in.
- Lengths
- 8–20 ft
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Nominal widths 4–12 in.
- Lengths
- 8–20 ft
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Nominal widths 4–12 in.
- Lengths
- 8–20 ft
Decking & exterior profiles
2x6 and 5/4x6 decking, 2x4, 4x4, 6x6; fence boards; bevel siding
Availability notes: Common in the western US; Construction Heart and Clear grades. Limited east of the Rockies.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Reddish brown; pale sapwood
Grain: Straight; even texture
Common Uses
- Decking
- Siding
- Fencing
- Outdoor furniture
Key Characteristics
Also known as: California Redwood;Coast Redwood
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 420 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Durable
- Sourced from United States
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Redwood is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
Alaska Yellow Cedar
Alaska Yellow Cedar is among the most durable softwoods in the world, with natural decay resistance
View speciesAromatic Red Cedar
Aromatic Red Cedar is beloved for its distinctive spicy fragrance and natural moth-repelling propert
View speciesAtlantic White Cedar
Atlantic White Cedar is a lightweight, aromatic softwood native to the swamps and bogs of the Easter
View speciesCompare This Wood
Redwood vs Cedar
Redwood is the longer-lasting option and the best choice where it is locally available. Cedar is the more practical nationwide choice — it costs less, is easier to find, and still provides excellent service for garden beds. Both are food-safe and chemical-free, making either an excellent choice for vegetable gardens.
View comparisonSpruce vs Redwood
Spruce remains the gold standard for piano soundboards and is the correct choice for nearly all applications. Redwood is an intriguing alternative for adventurous builders seeking a unique warm voice, but its limited availability and shorter track record make it a niche option rather than a replacement.
View comparisonRedwood vs Pressure-Treated Pine
Redwood is the premium choice for beauty and longevity without chemicals. Pressure-treated wins on affordability and availability. For most budgets, pressure-treated is the practical choice; redwood is the aspirational one.
View comparisonCedar vs Redwood
Cedar is the practical choice for most homeowners. Redwood is the premium choice for those willing to invest more for superior longevity and beauty, especially on the West Coast where it's more readily available.
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