Redwood vs. Cedar Greenhouses: Which Wood is Better for a Lifetime of Gardening?

Why Redwood is the Best Wood for a Greenhouse

A greenhouse is unlike a deck or fence. It experiences constant swings in humidity, condensation, warmth, wind, sunlight and watering. The ideal wood must remain stable under these changing conditions.

Redwood has earned its reputation as one of nature's finest building materials because it naturally provides:

• Outstanding resistance to decay
• Excellent dimensional stability
• Low shrinkage and swelling
• Natural resistance to insects
• Beautiful rich color and grain
• Exceptional longevity

Unlike pressure-treated lumber, redwood achieves its durability naturally without chemical preservatives. This makes it an attractive choice for gardeners who spend countless hours surrounded by their plants.

For more than 70 years, Sturdi Built Greenhouse has selected clear-heart redwood because it consistently delivers the appearance and performance our customers expect.  

Redwood vs. Cedar: Which Lasts Longer?

Both woods are excellent choices, but there are meaningful differences.

Feature	Redwood	Cedar
Natural decay resistance	Excellent	Very Good
Dimensional stability	Excellent	Good
Resistance to warping	Excellent	Good
Appearance over time	Rich, elegant patina	Silver-gray if left untreated
Density	Higher	Lower
Strength	Higher	Moderate
Typical lifespan (maintained)	40–70+ years	25–40+ years

 

Western Red Cedar is a quality building material and performs well outdoors for decks, fences and siding. However, premium clear-heart redwood generally offers greater stability, higher strength, and longer service life.  Redwood is used to frame buildings in places including California, Hawaii and Japan.

Because greenhouse glazing depends on accurate wood movement, dimensional stability is especially important. Stable framing helps maintain proper glass alignment and weather resistance over many decades.

Winner: Redwood

Does Redwood Rot?

This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask.

The short answer is:  Eventually, every natural wood will decompose.

The better question is: How long does it resist decay?

Redwood contains naturally occurring compounds called tannins and extractives that help resist:

• Fungal decay
• Moisture damage
• Wood-destroying insects

These natural preservatives are concentrated in heartwood, which is why premium greenhouse manufacturers like Sturdi Built specify clear-heart redwood rather than lower-cost sapwood.

When properly designed to avoid standing water and maintained with periodic refinishing, redwood structures commonly last for generations.

How Long Does a Redwood Greenhouse Last?

A quality redwood greenhouse is a long-term investment.

Expected lifespan depends on:

• Climate
• Maintenance
• Construction quality
• Foundation
• Ventilation
• Drainage

A well-built greenhouse constructed from clear-heart redwood can often provide 40 to 70 years or more of service.

Many older redwood structures throughout California have remained functional for well over a century.

Unlike inexpensive imported greenhouse kits that may require replacement after 10–20 years, a handcrafted redwood greenhouse is often considered a lifetime purchase.  That is why Sturdi Built stands out.

Redwood Greenhouse Maintenance Guide

Fortunately, maintaining redwood is straightforward.

Annual Inspection

Once each year inspect for:

• Loose hardware
• Damaged finish
• Clogged gutters
• Roof debris
• Weather stripping

Wash the Exterior

Remove dirt and pollen using:

• Mild soap
• Soft brush
• Garden hose

Avoid pressure washing and sanding, which can damage wood fibers.

Refinish When Needed

Depending on sun exposure and how much pigment is in the stain, most owners refinish every 3–7 years.

The oil-based finish protects against:

• UV exposure
• Surface checking
• Moisture cycling

Many customers appreciate that maintenance becomes a relaxing weekend project rather than a major repair.

Redwood Greenhouse Cost Explained

Why do redwood greenhouses cost more?

Several factors contribute:

Premium Lumber

Clear-heart redwood is one of North America's highest-quality building woods.

Better Joinery

Premium greenhouses often include:

• Smart framing for strength while limiting shadows
• Hand-crafted
• Precision joinery
• Better hardware
• Stronger roof systems

Longer Life

A greenhouse expected to last several decades generally costs more initially but often costs less over its lifetime.

Higher Resale Value

A handcrafted redwood greenhouse frequently adds character and appeal to a property, making it an investment rather than simply an expense.

Redwood Greenhouse Buyer's Guide

When comparing greenhouse manufacturers, ask these questions:

What grade of wood is used?

Some manufacturers advertise "redwood" while using lower-grade sapwood or mixed species.

Is it clear-heart redwood?

This is considered the highest-quality material.

What glazing is included?

Tempered glass generally provides superior clarity and scratch resistance.

How is ventilation handled?

Proper airflow extends the life of both plants and the greenhouse.

Is the greenhouse engineered?

If you live in snow or high-wind regions, engineering matters.

Can replacement parts be obtained decades later?

A greenhouse should be serviceable for many years.

Why Professional Gardeners Prefer Redwood

Professional gardeners often value durability above all else.

They appreciate redwood because it offers:

• Stable growing conditions
• Beautiful appearance
• Excellent moisture resistance
• Long service life
• Easy maintenance
• Timeless craftsmanship

A greenhouse quickly becomes more than a place to grow plants—it becomes a workspace, retreat, and centerpiece of the garden.

Sustainability of California and Oregon Redwood

Responsibly harvested California and Oregon redwood is one of the most sustainable building materials available.

Modern forestry practices ensure that harvested forests are replanted and carefully managed.

Wood also stores carbon throughout its service life, making it a renewable building material with a significantly lower embodied energy than steel or aluminum.

Choosing a Sturdi Built greenhouse built from sustainably sourced redwood supports renewable forestry while providing a structure that may serve several generations.

Final Thoughts

A premium redwood greenhouse is one of the few backyard structures that many families hope to enjoy for decades. While both cedar and redwood are excellent materials, clear-heart California redwood stands apart for its exceptional durability, dimensional stability, natural beauty, and long service life.

For gardeners who want a greenhouse that is as enduring as the memories made inside it, redwood remains one of the finest building materials nature has to offer. See Sturdi Built for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is redwood better than cedar for a greenhouse?
Both are excellent, but clear-heart redwood generally offers greater stability, strength, and longevity, making it a preferred choice for premium greenhouse construction.

Does a redwood greenhouse need to be stained?
Yes. While redwood naturally resists decay, applying a quality exterior stain every few years helps preserve its color and provides additional UV and moisture protection.

Can a redwood greenhouse last 50 years?
Yes. A well-built greenhouse constructed from clear-heart redwood and properly maintained can often last 50 years or more.

Is redwood environmentally friendly?
When sourced from responsibly managed forests, redwood is a renewable, sustainable building material that stores carbon throughout its lifetime.