different grades of redwood lumber

Redwood Lumber Grades: A Comprehensive Guide

By Melissa HarrisApril 18, 2026

Embarking on a project that involves redwood lumber? You're in for a treat, as redwood is renowned for its durability, beauty, and resistance to decay. But did you know that not all redwood lumber is created equal? The grade of redwood lumber you choose can significantly impact your project's outcome. Let's delve into the fascinating world of different redwood lumber grades.

Redwood lumber is typically graded based on its appearance, quality, and potential uses. The American Wood-Preservers' Association (AWPA) has established standards for grading redwood, ensuring consistency and quality across the industry. So, let's explore the various grades of redwood lumber and their applications.

Clear Heart Redwood

At the pinnacle of redwood lumber grades is Clear Heart Redwood. As the name suggests, this grade is characterized by its clear, knot-free appearance. It's milled from the heartwood of the tree, which is the most durable and decay-resistant part. Clear Heart Redwood is perfect for applications where appearance is paramount, such as high-end furniture, cabinetry, and architectural millwork.

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However, due to its scarcity and the time-consuming grading process, Clear Heart Redwood is also the most expensive grade. But for those who appreciate the unparalleled beauty and durability of clear redwood, the investment is well worth it.

Heart Clear

Heart Clear is another premium grade of redwood lumber. It's similar to Clear Heart Redwood but may contain a small amount of sapwood and a limited number of small knots. Despite these minor imperfections, Heart Clear still offers an attractive, clear appearance and excellent durability. It's a popular choice for outdoor applications like decks, fences, and siding, as well as for interior uses such as paneling and trim.

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While it's not as expensive as Clear Heart Redwood, Heart Clear still commands a higher price than lower grades. But its combination of beauty, durability, and affordability makes it a popular choice among builders and homeowners.

Select Heart

Select Heart redwood is a step down in terms of appearance but still offers excellent quality. It may contain a limited number of small knots and some sapwood. However, the heartwood content is still high, ensuring good durability and resistance to decay. Select Heart is a versatile grade, suitable for a wide range of applications, from outdoor structures to interior millwork.

Its lower price point makes Select Heart an attractive option for those who want a good balance between quality and affordability. It's a popular choice for decks, fences, and outdoor furniture, as well as for interior uses where a clear appearance isn't critical.

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Construction Heart

Construction Heart redwood is a utility grade, designed for applications where appearance is less important than durability and strength. It may contain larger knots and more sapwood than higher grades, but it's still milled from the heartwood of the tree, ensuring good resistance to decay. Construction Heart is often used for structural applications, such as beams, joists, and posts.

Its lower price point makes Construction Heart an economical choice for projects where appearance isn't a priority. However, it's important to note that its lower grade means it may not be suitable for applications where a clear appearance is required.

Common

Common redwood is the lowest grade of redwood lumber. It's typically milled from the outer sapwood of the tree, which is less durable and more prone to decay than heartwood. Common redwood may contain large knots, cracks, and other defects. Its primary use is for applications where durability isn't a critical factor, such as landscaping timbers, retaining walls, and erosion control.

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While it's the least expensive grade of redwood, Common redwood's lower quality and durability mean it's not suitable for most construction applications. However, for certain uses, it can be a cost-effective option.

Understanding the different grades of redwood lumber is crucial for making informed decisions about your project. Whether you're building a deck, constructing a fence, or creating a piece of fine furniture, choosing the right grade of redwood lumber can ensure your project's success. So, the next time you're in the market for redwood lumber, keep these grades in mind. Your project - and your wallet - will thank you.