Redwood shed siding, Digi Mart USA News: Plywood is strong, affordable and versatile, and it can be used outdoors for decking or shed siding when the right grade is chosen. Its main drawback is that machine-made boards are very uniform and offer little visual character, which is why some homeowners look to redwood for a more attractive option.
According to House Digest, redwood is arguably a more sustainable choice with several natural advantages. Its eco-friendliness depends on the source and production method, so buyers should check sourcing: while most homegrown redwood is sustainably harvested, there are exceptions.
Plywood carrying the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) mark comes from responsibly managed woodland, but much plywood does not.
Redwood contains tannins that protect it from insect and fungal attack and make it resistant to the humidity and wet weather that lead to rot. It is also very stable, so it is unlikely to split or warp.
Left untreated, it weathers to a silvery gray; to keep its original rich color, a sealer coat is needed about every couple of years. Outdoor-rated plywood also needs periodic preservative treatment.
Redwood is available in several styles, including rustic log siding, bevel-edged and tongue and groove. It is usually more expensive than standard exterior plywood, although grades of both products vary, so the source recommends shopping around.
Machined boards may cost more but are guaranteed to overlap. Boards with bark or plain sawn edges can leave gaps that make a shed drafty.
The source suggests two solutions: filling gaps with suitable caulk from the inside, or building the shed with weatherproof sheathing boards and fitting decorative redwood siding on the outside. Redwood decking and fencing are also widely available for a coordinated yard look.
Whether building new or renovating an older shed, redwood is described as both attractive and durable without relying on paints and preservatives. The article also notes that redwood is a home-grown product, while a lot of plywood comes from abroad and can be difficult to tell apart from U.S.-made plywood.
