Why Redwood for Fence is the Smartest Choice You’ll Ever Make

Ever walked past a weathered, sagging fence and thought “That’ll be me in 3 years”? Let’s talk about why your next fence project deserves the VIP treatment – and why redwood might just become your new best friend. I’ve seen enough warped cedar and splintered pine boards to know what really lasts, and spoiler alert: it’s not the cheap stuff from the big box store.

Nature’s Built-In Superpowers

Redwood trees have been outsmarting pests and weather for centuries before humans even thought about pressure-treated lumber. The secret? Tannins and oils that act like natural bodyguards against:

• Rot (the silent fence killer)
• Termites (those uninvited guests)
• Fungal growth (the ugly cousin of decay)

Fun fact: The same compounds that make redwood resistant also give it that distinctive earthy scent. Try getting that from chemically-treated pine!

Beauty That Ages Like Fine Wine

Let’s be real – we all want a fence that looks good but doesn’t demand constant primping. Redwood’s grain patterns range from straight lines to wild swirls that make each board unique. The color palette? Think warm ambers to rich russets that weather to a distinguished silver if left untreated.

The Real Cost of “Cheap” Fences

Material	Upfront Cost	10-Year Cost	Maintenance Time
Redwood	$$$	$$	Low
Cedar	$$	$$$	Moderate
Pressure-Treated Pine	$	$$$$	High

See that middle column? That’s where redwood shines. While you’ll pay more initially, you’re buying back countless weekends you’d otherwise spend sanding and staining.

From My Workshop to Your Backyard

Here’s the maintenance cheat sheet I give my own clients:

• Year 1: Let it weather naturally or apply a clear sealant
• Year 3-5: Light cleaning with oxygen bleach (never chlorine!)
• Decade Mark: Optional stain refresh if you want to maintain the original hue

Pro tip: If you spot a few gray patches over time, that’s not a defect – it’s your fence developing character!

Real People, Real Redwood Stories

Eco-Friendly Bonus Points

Here’s something most folks don’t consider – redwood grows faster than you think (about 2-3 feet per year in ideal conditions) and California’s forestry practices ensure more trees are planted than harvested. Compared to the chemical cocktail in pressure-treated wood? It’s like choosing organic produce over fast food.

When Redwood Might Not Be Your Match

Let’s keep it 100% honest – no material is perfect for every situation. You might want to consider alternatives if:

• You’re in a super humid climate with constant moisture
• Your budget is strictly under $20/linear foot
• You love the look of painted white fences (redwood’s too pretty to cover!)

Sealing the Deal

At the end of the day, choosing redwood for fence projects is like investing in good leather boots versus disposable sneakers. The initial sting fades quickly when you’re still enjoying your investment decades later. Still on the fence? (Pun intended!) Visit a local supplier and feel the difference – that weight and density don’t lie.