Redwood Lumber: Complete Buying Guide 2026
Redwood is a premium softwood native to California known for its rich color, dimensional stability, and exceptional natural resistance to rot and insects. It is one of the most beautiful outdoor building materials. In 2026, redwood lumber prices average $12.00 per board foot, with a typical range of $8.00 to $18.00 depending on your region, supplier relationships, and order quantity.
When budgeting for a project using redwood lumber, factor in approximately 10% additional material for waste, plus labor costs averaging $3.00 per board foot for professional installation. A typical project using this material runs approximately $7,800 including both materials and labor.
With an expected lifespan of 35 years, redwood lumber represents a cost of approximately $0.34 per board foot per year of service life. This solid lifespan provides good value for most residential and commercial applications.