Redwood
By California Redwood Association
For beauty and performance, redwood is naturally superior to other woods. Thats why its 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 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.
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.
Finishes
Redwood accepts finishes better than most woods. Some heighten redwoods natural beauty, bringing out the color and the grain. (PorterDeck Transparent Stain) Others help the wood harmonize or contrast with surrounding structures. Keep in mind that unfinished redwood will gradually turn soft driftwood gray. Read the labels on all finish products before using.
Clear water repellent finish is recommended to stabilize the color at tan.
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.
Fasteners
Use only non-corrosive hardware such as aluminum, stainless
steel or top quality hot-dipped galvanized screws or nails.
More Redwood information
Redwood profile report by Clarks Outdoor chairs.
California
Redwood
Association
405 Enfrente Drive, Suite 200
Novato, CA 94949
Telephone 415 382-0662
Toll Free 888 Cal-Redwood
Fax 415 382-8531
www.calredwood.org
