Redwood Grades: An Expert Guide
Discover the art of selecting the perfect redwood grade. Unleash the natural beauty and enduring quality that Redwood brings to elevate your outdoor space to new heights.
When choosing wood for your next project, one of the first decisions you'll face is selecting the right type, and redwood is a popular option for good reason. Different grades of redwood might look quite similar at a glance, but important distinctions can impact appearance and performance. Understanding these differences is key to picking the right grade for your needs.
Redwood is one of the most commonly used wood types for outdoor projects- 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. Plus, the reddish tones of the wood give it an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
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.
"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. It is sourced from the outer edge of the log (sapwood) and has some color variations including shades of ivory, tan, brown, pink and red. Con Common will also have visible 'knots' where the branches used to be.
Due to the fact it's sourced from the outer edge of the log, Redwood Con Common can be a bit more porous than the other grades- meaning it will likely need a kickboard so it's not in direct contact with the ground soil.
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.
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.) This higher quality and durability makes Redwood Con Heart more expensive than Con Common; it's usually about 20% more expensive.
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.
For both Con Common and Con Heart, it is recommended that you get a yearly sealant to keep the fence in good shape. This is typically applied 2-3 weeks after the fence is installed.
Redwood Clear Heart includes specially selected pieces of heartwood that are virtually free from knots, sapwood and other defects. This creates a very clean and 'clear' appearance for the pickets. The functionality of Clear Heart is essentially equal to Con Heart, but some people find the uniform appearance more visually appealing overall. Clear Heart is more expensive than Con Common and Con Heart.
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!
The right grade for you ultimately depends on your project budget and style preferences. Consider the potential wood fence costs as you explore various Redwood grades Overall, no matter which Redwood grade you select, you're making a long lasting investment in your property!
Choosing the right redwood grade for your fence isn’t just about aesthetics—it impacts your budget, durability, and long-term satisfaction. Based on the grades mentioned above, here’s a quick guide to help you pick the best one for your fencing needs:
This grade is ideal for fence boards where you're okay with some visual imperfections but still want the longevity and performance of redwood.
Con Heart is great for fences in areas exposed to moisture or pests, offering a solid balance between looks and long-lasting performance.
Best for: Premium fencing with a flawless look and maximum longevity
Features: Clear, knot-free heartwood with uniform color. It's the highest-grade redwood, naturally resistant to rot and decay.
Pros: Elegant appearance, superior durability, minimal maintenance
Cons: Highest cost
If you're building a fence that will be a standout feature in your yard or want the absolute best in durability and aesthetics, Clear Heart redwood is the gold standard.
In the end, the right grade of redwood for a fence will depend on your design. If you're building a fence on a budget, Con Common will do the job. For better longevity and fewer imperfections, go with Con Heart. And if you want the best of the best, Clear Heart will deliver unmatched performance and curb appeal.
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