Looking for a “green” way to build your deck? Consider redwood. While often mistaken for an environmentally unfriendly choice, redwood is actually one of the most sustainable building materials available. When sourced from responsibly-managed forests, redwood is a great way to add value to your property while preserving the environment. In this blog post, we’ll talk about redwood for decks and how it can change the look and feel of your outdoor space!
What Is Redwood Decking?
The Origin Of The Material
Redwood trees are enormous in size, averaging 8 feet in diameter, and are as tall as 375 feet, which is pretty much taller than the Statue of Liberty. Native to the coast of the Pacific Northwest, they can reach even 1,000 years in age. Because of past exploitation and abusive logging practices such as clear-cut forests, redwood building materials still carry the stigma of an environmental tragedy.
However, through sustainable forestry practices, redwoods are being managed in a way that preserves this natural resource for future generations. When used in construction, redwoods are a renewable, beautiful, and environmentally responsible choice.
The Environmental Benefits Of Redwood
Redwood forests are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council or Sustainable Forestry Initiative as sources of environmentally-sound building materials. In other words, you can be sure that your redwood products are made from sustainable sources. Not to mention, redwood uses 97% less energy to produce than plastic. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to use eco-friendly materials.
The California Redwood Association (CRA) is dedicated to promoting the use of redwood in construction projects. Redwoods are not only the tallest trees in the world, but they are also leaders in the fight against climate change. As they grow, redwoods absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in their wood. This process helps to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and mitigate the effects of climate change.
The Pros Of Choosing Redwood For Decks
Durability
Looks
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in redwood as a decking material. While its durability and strength have always made it a popular choice for construction, the main reason that builders and homeowners are returning to redwood boards is aesthetics; redwood possesses a rich character and natural beauty that can transform your deck for the better. It creates an aura of warmth, adding value while at the same time providing an ecologically sound alternative for the environmentally conscious consumer.
In a world where mass-produced materials are becoming increasingly commonplace, the unique grain and rich color of redwood deck boards provide a welcome touch of elegance and individuality. When used for decking, redwood is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a touch of class to their home.
Cost
The Cons Of Redwood Decking
When it comes to disadvantages, the same general characteristics apply. A wood deck is a beautiful addition to any home. It can provide a place to relax, entertain guests, and enjoy the outdoors. But as any homeowner with a wood deck knows, it requires regular upkeep to keep it looking its best. Typically, decks need to be stained and treated once a year to protect them from the elements.
This can be a costly and time-consuming process, but it’s necessary to keep your deck in good condition. If you don’t keep up with the maintenance, your deck will start to show wear and tear faster and will eventually need to be replaced. So if you’re considering adding a redwood deck to your home, be prepared to put in some work to maintain it. But in the end, it will be worth it when you can sit back and enjoy your beautiful outdoor space.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a beautiful and environmentally-friendly deck material, redwood decking is a great choice. It’s durable and weather-resistant so that it will last for many years. Plus, it’s a renewable resource, so you can feel good about using it. If you need help installing a redwood deck, contact us. We would be happy to assist you!
