Redwood

Sequoia sempervirens

Trade Names

Sequoia, Coast Redwood

Similar Woods

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Origin

USA

Range

West coast of USA, in the coastal regions with the heaviest rainfall and in Southern Oregon.

Uses

Veneer, especially rotary cut for plywood, grained pieces as face veneer for furniture, paneling and lining, construction lumber for interior and exterior work. However, these usages are more common in the USA and Far East. Less used in Europe. The burl wood is known as “Vavona Burl”.

Properties

The heartwood is light red to brownish-red, frequently in shades of violet and darkens in time. It is one of the best commercial lumbers in the world because it is free of knots. Average height of a 100-year-old tree is approx. 230 feet. Sequoia trees can live to be up to 4,000 years old. The “Founders Tree” is considered to be the largest tree, 360 feet high, with a diameter of 46 feet.

Machining

Works easily and well with all hand and machine tools. Very smooth surfaces for a soft wood can be achieved, even when molding.

Seasoning

At the beginning drying has to be slow because of the high moisture content but is possible without any major difficulties. The wood is almost completely free of inner tension.

Finishing

Clear finishes and varnishes are preferred for indoor use. Wood used for exterior purposes should be protected from greying.

Jointing

Nail and screw joints hold well. Glue joints show satisfactory results but no alkaline adhesions should be used as these can cause stains.
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