Redwood Decking 5.5" x 12'
California redwood decking, prized for its rich color, natural tannins that resist insects and rot, and exceptional dimensional stability. Redwood has been used in outdoor construction for centuries and remains one of the most beautiful natural decking materials available.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Stunning natural deep red color
- Excellent natural rot resistance
- Superior dimensional stability
- Contains natural insect-repelling tannins
- Sustainable when sourced from certified forests
Considerations
- Very expensive compared to alternatives
- Limited availability outside West Coast
- Softer wood surface can scratch
- Requires sealing to maintain color
- Harvesting concerns for old-growth
Cost Estimates by Deck Size
The table below shows pre-computed material costs for five standard deck sizes using Redwood Decking 5.5" x 12'. All estimates include structural framing (joists, beams, posts), concrete footings, fasteners, hardware, railing on three sides, and one set of stairs. The board cost column shows the cost of decking boards alone, while the total includes all materials needed for a complete deck.
| Deck Size | Area | Boards | Board Cost | Total Materials |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10' x 12' Deck | 120 sq ft | 24 | $2,304 | $5,205 |
| 12' x 16' Deck | 192 sq ft | 38 | $3,648 | $7,071 |
| 14' x 20' Deck | 280 sq ft | 55 | $5,280 | $10,391 |
| 16' x 24' Deck | 384 sq ft | 76 | $7,296 | $12,956 |
| 20' x 20' Deck | 400 sq ft | 79 | $7,584 | $13,951 |
Material Comparison for a 12' x 16' Deck
How does Redwood Decking 5.5" x 12' compare to other decking materials? The following table shows total material costs for a standard 12' x 16' deck (192 sq ft) across multiple decking options. This comparison includes identical framing and hardware for each option; only the surface decking boards differ.
| Decking Material | Price/LF | Board Cost | Total Materials |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redwood Decking 5.5" x 12' | $8/lf | $3,648 | $7,071 |
| Pressure-Treated Pine 5.5" x 12' | $2/lf | $912 | $4,335 |
| Composite Decking 5.5" x 12' | $5/lf | $2,052 | $5,475 |
| Western Red Cedar 5.5" x 12' | $5/lf | $2,052 | $5,475 |
| Ipe Hardwood 5.5" x 12' | $9/lf | $4,104 | $7,527 |
| PVC Decking 5.5" x 12' | $6/lf | $2,736 | $6,159 |
Maintenance and Lifespan
Expected lifespan: 25-30 years with proper maintenance. The actual service life depends on your climate zone, sun exposure, proximity to water, and how diligently maintenance is performed. Decks in the Pacific Northwest that receive heavy rainfall will weather differently than decks in the arid Southwest, and maintenance schedules should be adjusted accordingly.
Maintenance requirements: Similar to cedar: annual cleaning and periodic sealer application. Redwood's natural tannins provide good baseline protection, but a UV-protective finish preserves the deep red color. Without treatment, redwood weathers to a distinguished silver-gray.
Estimated annual maintenance cost: $100-250 per year (premium sealers recommended). Over a 20-year period, these annual costs accumulate and should be factored into your total cost of ownership calculation. A material with a higher purchase price but lower maintenance may actually cost less over the deck's full lifespan.
Proper installation is the single most important factor in deck longevity regardless of material choice. Ensure adequate ventilation beneath the deck surface (minimum 18 inches of clearance for ground-level decks), proper drainage away from the structure, and correct fastener selection for the specific decking material. Using the wrong fastener type or spacing can void manufacturer warranties and lead to premature board failure.
Installation Tips for Redwood
Redwood decking benefits from pre-drilling near board ends to prevent splitting, particularly within 2 inches of any edge. Use stainless steel or coated deck screws compatible with the specific wood species. Allow boards to acclimatize to your local humidity for at least one week before installation by stacking them flat with spacers in a covered area. Apply a UV-protective penetrating sealer or oil within 30 days of installation to preserve the natural color. Leave appropriate drainage gaps between boards (typically 1/8 inch) and expansion gaps at fixed structures (1/4 inch).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Redwood Decking 5.5" x 12' cost for a 12x16 deck?
Using Redwood Decking 5.5" x 12' for a 12' x 16' deck (192 sq ft), the total material cost including framing, hardware, railing, and stairs is approximately $7,071. The decking boards alone account for $3,648 of that total. Adding professional installation at $25/sq ft would bring the complete project cost to approximately $11,871.
How long does redwood decking last?
Redwood decking typically lasts 25-30 years with proper maintenance. Similar to cedar: annual cleaning and periodic sealer application. Redwood's natural tannins provide good baseline protection, but a UV-protective finish preserves the deep red color. Annual maintenance costs are estimated at $100-250 per year (premium sealers recommended). The actual lifespan depends on your climate, the quality of installation, and how consistently maintenance is performed.
Is redwood a good choice for decking?
Redwood is a beautiful natural wood option with inherent rot resistance and distinctive color. Key advantages include stunning natural deep red color, excellent natural rot resistance, superior dimensional stability. The main considerations are very expensive compared to alternatives and limited availability outside west coast. Your decision should factor in both upfront cost and long-term maintenance requirements.