Redwood Deck Ideas

Deck Size

• Build a redwood deck that is the correct size for your entertaining desires. A small deck can be an intimate place for two people to sit and enjoy an outdoor fire, but trying to squeeze one dozen people in the same area may be problematic. Redwood costs more than some other kinds of wood, however. So if you don't entertain large crowds, then a small redwood deck makes sense financially. If you have many friends and family members and plan to host events for them on your deck, then a large redwood deck is the correct choice.

Color Scheme and Decor

• Redwood's muted red color goes well with Southwestern shades such as desert tan, soft browns, yellows and greens. Mixing and matching colors of area rugs, throw pillows, furniture, planter boxes and other items with the redwood hue evokes an Arizona through lower California ambiance. Adding an outdoor Mexican chiminea fire pit continues the theme. Place a fire pit over a fire-resistant rug that is laid over a layer of firebrick to protect the redwood from heat damage and fire.

Less-Expensive, Non-Visible Wood

• Save money on a redwood deck's construction by using less expensive wood in areas that are not visible. Joists, posts, bearers, the stringer and other supports are hidden from view, and they can be made of regular pine wood. Pine doesn't have redwood's natural resistance to rot and damage, however. So use only pressure-treated pine for the deck.

Faux Redwood

• A less expensive way to have the appearance of a redwood deck than actually using redwood is to create a faux redwood deck from pine wood. Pine stains easily, and most people would never know the difference between redwood and pine stained to look like redwood. Before a new pine deck can be stained, it must dry completely, which can take up to one year. Cleaning the pine deck thoroughly and sanding it lightly prepares its surface for stain. Follow directions on the can of stain for the stain's proper application.