Redwood lumber, renowned for its beauty, durability, and resistance to decay, is a preferred choice for a variety of construction and design projects. Valley Redwood, a premier supplier in the Sacramento area, offers a range of redwood grades to meet the diverse needs of its customers. Understanding these grades can help you select the right type of lumber for your specific project, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
Heartwood vs. Sapwood
Redwood is classified into two main types based on the tree’s age and location of the wood. Heartwood is the older, denser wood found at the center of the tree, known for its deep, rich color and exceptional resistance to insects and decay. Sapwood, on the other hand, is the younger, outer layer of the tree and tends to be lighter in color and less resistant to decay.
Redwood Grades
- Clear All Heart
- Characteristics: This is the highest grade of redwood, consisting entirely of heartwood. It is free from knots and other imperfections, offering a smooth, uniform appearance.
- Uses: Ideal for premium projects where aesthetics are paramount, such as high-end decking, siding, and trim.
- Clear
- Characteristics: Similar to Clear All Heart, but may include both heartwood and sapwood. It is also free of knots but may have minor blemishes.
- Uses: Suitable for applications where appearance is important, such as exterior siding and interior paneling.
- Heart B
- Characteristics: Contains only heartwood but allows for some knots and imperfections. This grade offers a balance between aesthetic appeal and cost.
- Uses: Often used for outdoor structures like fences, decks, and garden furniture where durability is crucial, but some natural character is acceptable.
- B Grade
- Characteristics: Includes both heartwood and sapwood with knots and other imperfections. It is more economical than higher grades but still maintains the natural beauty of redwood.
- Uses: Commonly used for garden boxes, outdoor furniture, and general construction where a rustic look is desired.
- Construction Common
- Characteristics: This grade includes a mix of heartwood and sapwood with larger knots and blemishes. It is the most economical grade.
- Uses: Suitable for structural applications where appearance is less critical, such as framing and support structures.
- Deck Heart and Deck Common
- Characteristics: These grades are specifically selected for decking. Deck Heart is all heartwood, while Deck Common includes both heartwood and sapwood with knots.
- Uses: Designed for use in decking, providing a durable and attractive surface.
Choosing the Right Grade
Selecting the right grade of redwood lumber from Valley Redwood depends on your project’s requirements. For high-visibility projects, Clear All Heart or Clear grades are ideal. For structural or less visible applications, Construction Common offers a cost-effective solution. Understanding these grades ensures you get the best value and performance for your specific needs.
Valley Redwood’s knowledgeable staff can help guide you in choosing the right grade for your project, ensuring you achieve both beauty and durability. Whether you’re building a deck, fence, or interior feature, there’s a redwood grade perfect for your needs. Contact us to see which grades of redwood lumber we stock, or questions about fencing, or landscape materials you might have. We look forward to hearing from you.
