
What are the grades of redwood?
- Douglas-fir. #1 Structural Select Grade (or better) Mostly Open Grain.
- Mosaic Eco-Wood. All Reclaimed Wood. Combination of the Other 4 Grades of Wood.
- California Redwood. Con-Common Grade. (or better) Open-Grain.
- Mature Redwood. Select-Heart Grade. (or better) Open-Grain.
- Old-Growth Redwood. All Reclaimed Wood. Select-Heart Grade.
What are the different grades of redwood lumber?
What are the grades of redwood?
- Douglas-fir. #1 Structural Select Grade (or better) Mostly Open Grain.
- Mosaic Eco-Wood. All Reclaimed Wood. Combination of the Other 4 Grades of Wood.
- California Redwood. Con-Common Grade. (or better) Open-Grain.
- Mature Redwood. Select-Heart Grade. (or better) Open-Grain.
- Old-Growth Redwood. All Reclaimed Wood. Select-Heart Grade.
What is B grade Redwood?
Uses of B Grade redwood include siding, paneling, trim, fascia, molding and other architectural uses; quality decking, garden structures and other above-ground applications. Same general characteristics as Construction Heart, but contains a combination of heartwood and sapwood. Unseasoned or seasoned, may be surfaced or rough.
What is #2 lumber?
Virtually all treated lumber is considered for construction only – those grades do not take appearance into consideration. What is #2 lumber? 2 Lumber. No. 2 lumber is the most common grade for framing. Lumber of this grade contains few defects, but knots are allowed of any quality as long as they are well spaced and do not exceed the size regulations.
What is Con common Redwood?
What is con common Redwood?
- Durability. Redwood is graded for durability and resistance against insects and decay – factors easily distinguished by redwood's color.
- Appearance. Excellence of appearance is a major factor in the grading of redwood.
- Architectural Grades.
- Garden Grades.
- Heart Clear.
- Heart B.
- Deck Heart.
- Construction Heart.

What is the best type of redwood?
Redwood Con Heart comes from closer to the center of the log, also known as the “heartwood”. This is more expensive than Con Common but it's also higher quality. It has a more robust color, fewer visible knots, and is also more resistant to pests and rot.
What is select grade redwood?
Redwood Grades & Terms Con Heart allows unsound knots, heart center, and sapwood on an occasional edge. Select Heart “Select” or “Single Green” An excellent value, this grade allows for knots up to 2″ diameter on a 6″ wide piece, and larger knots in wider face widths. All knots must be tight and well distributed.
What is premium redwood?
Premium Redwood comes in a variety of colors from white to pink to red and reddish brown. In it's natural state, it is a few shades lighter than All-Heart Redwood. As far as grain patterns and the ability to absorb stains and finishes, it is definitely on par with All-Heart Redwood.
What are the grades of redwood fencing?
The primary grades are:Architectural Grades.Heartwood.Clear All Heart. The finest architectural heartwood grade, typically certified Kiln Dried (but also available unseasoned), well manufactured, and free of defects on at least one face. ... Heart Clear. ... Heart B. ... Sapwood.Clear. ... B Grade.More items...•
What is the difference between Con heart and construction grade redwood?
Redwood Con Heart Compared to Redwood Con Common, its color is more uniform and has fewer visible knots. Redwood Con Heart is usually more resistant to pests and rot, especially during the first years. This means it can be in direct contact with the ground (versus requiring a kickboard to raise it off of the ground.)
What is S4S redwood?
2" x 6" Kiln-Dried Construction Common Redwood S4S Lumber. SKU: R2608CCDRY. Redwood is a durable softwood that is resistant to harsh weather elements, decay and insects. Length.
What kind of redwood do you use for a deck?
Naturally robust California Redwood is a durable and sustainable decking material prized for its rich reddish-brown hues and tones. The warm tonal range in California Redwood decking makes a statement and creates a dramatic effect that few building materials can achieve without the aid of a saturated stain.
How long will redwood last outside?
It is recommended that you use a protective finish with a water repellant, mildewcide and ultraviolet inhibitor. Redwood can last up to about 30 years on a well-maintained deck under good circumstances. Redwood is the most fire-resistant decking material on the market.
Is cedar better than redwood?
Durability Redwood - with a janka rating of 450lbs - is about 23% stronger than cedar (janka rating of 350lbs). Whether or not the extra strength is necessary for your project is up to you, but clearly redwood is more durable than cedar in general.
What is architectural grade lumber?
This grade, commonly called just “Clear” Is graded to the highest standards in the industry, allowing for no knots or other defects on either side. The only defect, which we consider a warm attribute, is the Sapwood ( white wood ).
What is clear heart redwood?
The highest quality architectural grade, clear all heart redwood is entirely heartwood, and certified to be free of defects on at least one face. According to California's Redwood Inspection Service, this wood is best for siding, trim, and high end garden structures. Heart B.
Is Redwood good for fence posts?
Redwood is good for fence posts because it has natural properties that withstand weathering, rot, and infestations. Due to these natural properties, redwood requires little maintenance and typically lasts longer than other materials, making it a popular choice for fencing.
What is the best grade of redwood?
Architectural grades of redwood include Heart Clear, Clear, Heart B and B Grade . Normally sold kiln dried (pre-shrunk and stress free), these grades are for the finest exterior and interior architectural uses. These finish grades are unrivaled in beauty and dimensional stability.
What is redwood graded for?
Redwood is graded for durability and resistance against insects and decay – factors easily distinguished by redwood’s color. Reddish-brown heartwood from the inner portion of the tree contains extractives that render it resistant to insects and decay. As a general rule, all heartwood grades of redwood will have the word “Heart” in the grade name. For uses where the wood will be on or near soil, such as posts, bulkheads or patio grids, it’s essential to use one of the durable, heartwood grades – Heart Clear, Heart B, Deck Heart, Construction Heart or Merchantable Heart.
What is Heart B redwood used for?
Uses of Heart B redwood include siding, paneling, trim, fascia, molding and other architectural uses. Quality decking, timbers, garden structures and other outdoor applications on or near the soil. Humboldt Sawmill Redwood Heartwood. Garden Grades.
Why is it important to know the grade of redwood?
The grades help determine the best use for redwood based on its durability and appearance. Understanding the durability of the wood is important because it helps determine the best use for the lumber (e.g. ground-contact vs. above-ground). Appearance is particularly important in the case of redwood because it has so many variations in color and ...
What is the difference between heart clear and redwood?
High-quality finish grade of the same general quality as Heart Clear. The principal difference between the two grades is that Clear contains sapwood. Typically available kiln dried (also available unseasoned). Available surfaced or saw-textured. Uses of Clear redwood include siding, paneling, trim, cabinetry, molding, fascia, soffits. Also quality decking, garden structures and other above-ground applications.
Why is appearance important in redwood?
Appearance is particularly important in the case of redwood because it has so many variations in color and the presence of knots. Durability. Redwood is graded for durability and resistance against insects and decay – factors easily distinguished by redwood’s color.
Where to use redwood heartwood?
Redwood heartwood garden grades may be used on or near the soil in construction projects where knots or other characteristics are less important.
What type of wood is used in California?
Redwood is one of the most commonly used wood types in California- and for good reason. It’s durable, resistant to rot and insects, and less subject to swelling and shrinking than other kinds of wood, meaning it will last longer and be less likely to crack or split.
What is a S4S redwood fence?
A possible add-on for this Redwood grade is Redwood Con Heart S4S, a lumber that has been sanded on all four sides so that it’s very smooth . This option is significantly more expensive, but a good option for anyone who wants their fence to have a smooth and uniform appearance.
What is a con common wood?
Redwood Con Common. “Con Common” is short for “Construction Common”, which as you might guess, indicates that this Redwood grade is popular for construction projects. Redwood Con Common is often the standard option for fence projects because of its affordability.
Where does the heart come from in Redwood Con?
Redwood Con Heart is sourced from closer to the center of the log, also known as the “heartwood”. Compared to Redwood Con Common, its color is more uniform and has fewer visible knots.
Is Redwood Con Heart more expensive than Con Common?
This means it can be in direct contact with the ground (versus requiring a kickboard to raise it off of the ground.) This higher quality and durability makes Redwood Con Heart more expensive than Con Common; it’s usually about 20% more expensive.
Is redwood the same as redwood?
Not all Redwood is the same, though! In fact, there are many different ‘grades’ of Redwood. The grade refers to the characteristics and appearance of the lumber. Some of the most commonly offered Redwood grades are: Redwood Con Common, Redwood Con Heart, and Redwood Clear Heart.
Is Clear Heart lumber scarce?
Clear Heart grade lumber is also more scarce to come by for most construction companies- so check to make sure this is available at the time of your fence inquiry!
How many grades of redwood lumber are there?
Redwood Lumber is available in more than 30 different grades, from general-purpose grades to highly specialized grades intended for a single specific use. Redwood Lumber is available in more than 30 different grades, from general-purpose grades to highly specialized grades intended for a single specific use.
What are the two primary groups of redwood?
There are two primary groupings of redwood grades: Architectural/Appearance and Garden/Structural, with each subcategorized by whether it was cut from heartwood or sapwood. The primary grades are:
Is Clear All Heart sapwood?
Clear. Same general quality and uses as previous but contains sapwood in varying amounts and some imperfections not permitted in Clear All Heart.
What is mature redwood?
Mature Redwood: Is a beautiful premium quality Redwood grade (from trees averaging 100 years of age). It is all-heartwood and most boards have open grain (less than eight growth rings/inch). Grades vary from select-heart to clear heart.
How old is redwood in California?
Our Redwood grade is an attractive high-quality wood from trees averaging 50 to 80 years of age.
What is the best sealant for outdoor wood?
Seal the finished wood with the best sealant on the market. We hand rub 3 coats of the Sikkens Brand of finishes. We believe Sikkens is the best sealant for outdoor wood products based on our 20 years of experience.
How long does a redwood wood shelf last?
Forever Redwood offers warranties of up to thirty years. The secret to longevity begins and ends with the wood: Redwood is the most moisture and insect resistant wood species that grows naturally in N. America. All Forever Redwood furniture boards are cut extra-thick for added longevity.
What is the most expensive lumber?
For example, tabletops, armrests, bench seats and other furniture sections that come into regular human contact are made with vertical grain boards. Vertical grain is the most expensive lumber on the market because it is stronger, more dimensionally stable, and insures no splintering in future years/decades.
Why is wood resistant to decay?
Wood quantity and resistance to decay increases as a tree ages. Because of over-logging, almost all wood available today is from young trees. Although a few other tree species also have excellent resistance to weather, the reputation of wood to resist decay was established in decades past when old-growth (over 200 year-old trees) was plentiful. Compared to old-growth, young wood has less resistance because it takes centuries of slow growth to develop great decay resistance.
How much does it cost to get a wood sample?
For $21 we’ll expedite your samples anywhere in the U.S. or Canada (includes HI and AK).
How hard is redwood?
how hard is Redwood? Old growth Sierra redwood trees are very large and have a hardness similar to that of old growth coastal redwood, at about 480 pounds-force on the Janka hardness scale.
Is redwood a good deck material?
Redwood is a remarkable deck material in almost every way. It is very stable, straight and its heartwood is naturally resistant to wood boring insects and weathering without the use a preservative chemicals. Redwood is the most fire-resistant decking material on the market.
Is redwood sapwood clear?
Redwood lumber labeled simply as clear contains some sapwood, but is generally clear of knots and other imperfections on at least one face. This redwood sapwood lumber may include limited small knots and imperfections, but must be structurally stable and lack large imperfections.
What is redwood lumber?
Redwood, a type of evergreen tree native to the western United States, produces a high quality timber valued for its appearance, light weight, resistance to insects and decay. Redwood lumber comes in several grades, divided into appearance and structural grades.
What is clear all heart redwood?
Clear All Heart. The highest quality architectural grade, clear all heart redwood is entirely heartwood, and certified to be free of defects on at least one face. According to California’s Redwood Inspection Service, this wood is best for siding, trim, and high end garden structures. Heart B.
What is merchantable heart lumber?
Merchantable Heart. This garden grade redwood lumber may include splits, large knots and holes, but is much less costly than other types. It works well in retaining walls and forms, fences and any structure where decay or insect damage are a concern. Clear.
Can redwood be used for decking?
This redwood sapwood lumber may include limited small knots and imperfections, but must be structurally stable and lack large imperfections. It does well when used as molding, siding, fascia and decking, but should not be used below or in contact with the ground. Deck Common.
What is a redwood clear heart?
Redwood Clear Heart includes specially selected pieces of heartwood that are virtually free from knots and other defects. This creates a very clean and elegant appearance for the pickets. In terms of function, it’s equal to normal Con Heart but is more visually appealing overall.
What is a con common wood fence?
Redwood Con Common is often used for fences in California. “Con Common” is short for “Construction Common” which means that the wood can be used for basic construction projects like fences. It comes from the outer edge of the log (sapwood), and the colors can vary from shades of ivory, tan, brown, red, or pink. It’s also the most affordable option for a redwood fence.
Is redwood con heart more expensive than con common?
Redwood Con Heart. Redwood Con Heart comes from closer to the center of the log, also known as the “heartwood”. This is more expensive than Con Common but it’s also higher quality. It has a more robust color, fewer visible knots, and is also more resistant to pests and rot.
