Redwood Fencing in LA: Why It Still Outperforms Other Wood

Cedar gets most of the attention in California fence construction, but redwood has been the gold standard for premium wood fencing in Southern California for over a century. There's a reason the supply has tightened and the price has risen: nothing else in the wood category quite matches it.

Here's a real look at what redwood actually offers, what it costs, and when it's the right call.

What Makes Redwood Different

Redwood has natural characteristics most other softwoods don't:

• •High tannin content: — naturally repels insects, including termites
• •Natural oils: — resist moisture absorption and rot
• •Dimensional stability: — moves less with humidity changes than most woods
• •Fine, straight grain: — splits cleanly, takes stain evenly, weathers gracefully

These aren't marketing claims. They're chemistry, and they translate directly into a fence that holds up better in the Southern California climate.

The Look

The visual case for redwood is its color palette: warm reddish-brown when fresh, transitioning to a soft silver-gray patina if left untreated. Both stages look intentional in a way that bleached pine never does.

Stained, redwood holds color longer than other softwoods because of its tight grain. Left natural, it weathers without the splitting and checking that plagues lesser wood.

How Long Does Redwood Last in LA?

Realistic lifespans:

• •Heart redwood (premium grade): 20–25 years
• •Construction common redwood: 15–20 years
• •Either grade, well-maintained with stain: 25–30+ years

Compare that to untreated pine at 5–8 years and you understand the price difference.

Redwood Grades Worth Knowing

Not all redwood is the same product. The grades that matter for fencing:

• •Clear All Heart: — top grade, all heartwood, no knots. Premium fencing only.
• •Construction Heart: — heartwood with allowable knots. The standard for quality residential fencing.
• •Construction Common: — mix of heart and sapwood. More affordable, shorter lifespan.
• •Merchantable: — economy grade with more sapwood and defects. Avoid for premium installations.

When a contractor quotes "redwood," ask which grade. The difference between Construction Heart and Merchantable is substantial — both in price and in how long the fence lasts.

What It Costs in LA

Redwood fencing typically runs $45–$70 per linear foot installed in the LA market — roughly $10–$15 more per foot than equivalent cedar. The premium reflects both material cost and reduced supply.

For a 100-foot run, you're looking at a $1,000–$1,500 difference vs. cedar. Over a 25-year fence life, that works out to under $5 per month — usually worth it for the appearance and durability.

Maintenance That Pays Off

Redwood doesn't *need* maintenance to last — it's the rare wood that performs well untreated. But if you want it to keep its color:

• •Penetrating oil-based stain: every 2–3 years preserves the warm tones
• •UV-blocking sealer: slows the gray-out
• •Annual rinse: removes surface grime

Avoid film-forming finishes (like deck paint) — they trap moisture and peel.

When Redwood Is the Right Choice

Pick redwood if:

• •You want premium wood fencing that will outlast standard cedar
• •The natural color or graceful weathering matters to you
• •You're matching existing redwood elsewhere on the property
• •You're in a high-end neighborhood where appearance returns at resale

Skip redwood if:

• •You're going to paint over it (you're paying for grain you'll cover up)
• •You're in an HFHSZ where wood is increasingly questionable for fire reasons
• •Budget is the primary driver

Get Quality Redwood Installed Right

Infinity Fence installs Construction Heart redwood fencing throughout Woodland Hills and the LA area. Quality grade, proper post setting, and finishes that protect the investment. Contact us for a free estimate.

Ready to Start Your Fence Project?

Contact Infinity Fence Company for a free estimate today.