subject: Redwood Guide [print this page] For beauty and performance, redwood is naturally superior to other woods. That's why it's the first choice for decks, fences and most outdoor projects. Redwood retains its beauty outdoors, shrinks and swells less than other woods and is less likely to warp, split, check or cup. With relatively little or no pitch, redwood is easy to drill, saw and shape. Redwood heartwood has natural durability and resistance to insects and will last longer outdoors than most woods.
Redwood Grades
The knotty garden grades of redwood are ideal for outdoor projects. These grades are beautiful, durable and economical.
Construction Heart/Deck Heart is all heartwood and contains knots; used for load-bearing applications near the ground. Deck Heart is graded for strength and is available in 2x4 and 2x6.
Construction Common/Deck Common contains sapwood and knots; used for decking and above-ground uses. Deck Common is graded for strength and is available in 2x4 and 2x6.
Merchantable Heart is all heartwood and contains larger knots than Construction grades; used near the soil.
Merchantable contains sapwood and larger knots; used for fence boards, rails and above-ground uses.
Redwood Finishes
Redwood accepts finishes better than most woods. Some heighten redwood's natural beauty, bringing out the color and the grain. Others help the wood harmonize or contrast with surrounding structures. Read the labels on all finish products before using.
No-finish option Redwood performs better than most woods if left unfinished. This no-maintenance option will result in redwood weather-bleaching to a soft driftwood gray.
Clear water repellent finish with mildewcide is recommended to stabilize the color at tan.
Bleaching and weathering stains produce a permanent driftwood gray effect, a good, low-maintenance option.
Semitransparent stains in "redwood" shades tint the wood without hiding the grain.
Solid-color stains or paints should be applied over compatible oil-based primers.
Redwood Fasteners
Use only non-corrosive hardware such as aluminum, stainless steel or top quality hot-dipped galvanized screws or nails. Ordinary nails and screws will cause stains.
