Redwood

The Sequoia or California redwood is one of the world's most recognisable trees. The strength and rich colours of its softwood timber make it much sought after for decorative purposes, such as paneling, and for outdoor purposes such as decking, fences and garden furniture. 

The heartwood is pale to dark reddish brown, and the sapwood narrow and creamy. Texture is fine and usually even, because there is little difference between the early and late wood. The grain is straight and the wood is not resinous.

Redwood works easily with both hand and machine tools, with little dulling effect on tools. It planes well, provided the cutters are sharp and it splinters easily when working on the end grain. It holds nails well, and paints and finishes satisfactorily. It also stains well, but glues best with alkaline adhesives. The heart wood is more resistant to decay and insects than the sap wood.

The distinctive and very attractive colouring of redwood makes it highly sought after for decorative purposes, such as paneling and cladding, while its resistance to weather and insects makes it a natural choice for external joinery, outdoor furniture, windows and greenhouses. Similarly, its durability makes it useful for vats and tanks.

Today in the USA, a total of 364,000 ha of second growth forest are under active management for timber production. 

Significant quantities of California redwood were imported last century. Once readily available in Australia, it is now difficult to source as new timber. Australian red cedar  is a possible substitute.