Understanding the cost of redwood per board foot helps buyers budget timber projects. Prices vary by grade, size, moisture, and location, with the main cost drivers being grade, kiln-drying or surfacing, and delivery distance. This article presents concrete price ranges in USD and explains how to estimate a project using board feet as the unit.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redwood lumber (board feet) | $3-$6 | $6-$9 | $9-$15 | Includes typical common heartwood; regional price variation applies |
| Premium heartwood or clear grade | $8-$12 | $12-$16 | $16-$22 | Higher durability and clarity; may require specialty suppliers |
| Kiln-dried vs air-dried | $0 | $1-$3 | $5-$8 | Drying adds handling time and cost |
| Delivery (per mile or distance) | $0 | $0.50-$2 | $4-$6 | dependent on distance and fuel costs |
Assumptions: Midwest or Southern U.S. labor rates, standard 4/4 stock, varied grades, typical delivery radius.
What buyers usually pay for redwood by the board foot
Typical total price for finished redwood boards ranges from $6 to $16 per board foot depending on grade and finish. In rough terms, low-grade material used for framing or non-structural uses sits near the lower end, while premium heartwood or clear stock for siding, decking, or cabinetry sits toward the higher end. Planed, smooth-sawn stock adds a modest uplift over rough-sawn material, while kiln-dried stock adds another layer of cost for stability and finish readiness.
Unit and material mix that drive the price per board foot
Redwood pricing differs by board foot due to material grade, moisture content, and cut type. Major cost components include the board grade, moisture treatment, and surface finish.
| Factor | Impact | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade (rough sawn vs clear) | High to moderate | $3-$22 | Clear or near-clear increases price significantly |
| Moisture content | Moderate | $0-$5 | Kiln-dried stock costs more upfront |
| Finishing (planed, surfacing) | Low to moderate | $1-$4 | Adds uniform thickness and smoother surface |
| Delivery distance | Moderate | $0-$6 | Dependent on fuel and labor |
Variables that most affect the final redwood quote
Two key drivers are wood grade and project size. Grade can swing price by 50% or more between common and clear stock, while project scope, including total board feet and required milling, can shift the total by thousands of dollars on large jobs. Regional supply and seasonality also influence price swings, with tighter markets showing higher per-board-foot costs.
Regional pricing patterns you should expect
Prices vary across the U.S. due to supply, climate, and transport costs. Coastal markets with strong redwood supply often command higher per-foot pricing than inland regions. Expect higher freight or delivery charges when sourcing from distant suppliers, especially for large orders.
Common cost breakdowns buyers should request
Understanding where the money goes helps negotiate a fair quote. Materials, moisture treatment, and finish are the top three cost centers in most redwood board foot bids.
| Cost Component | Share of Total | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Materials (board stock) | 40%-60% | $3-$16 per bf | Grade and thickness drive this range |
| Labor (cutting, milling) | 15%-25% | $1-$4 per bf | |
| Finishing (planing, sanding) | 5%-15% | $0.50-$3 per bf | |
| Delivery | 5%-15% | $0-$6 per bf | |
| Waste & processing | 5%-10% | $0.25-$2 per bf |
How to estimate a redwood project by board feet
Convert plan dimensions into board feet: board feet = thickness (in inches) × width (in inches) × length (in feet) ÷ 12. Then multiply by the price range based on grade and finish. For example, a 1-inch-thick, 6-inch-wide board that is 8 feet long equals 4 board feet; at a mid-range of $8 per bf, the material alone would be $32 before labor and delivery.
Regional quotes: what to compare in bids
When comparing bids, look at the same grade and moisture specs across suppliers. Ask for a per-board-foot price with proposed waste and delivery fees itemized, not just a total. This helps ensure you are comparing apples-to-apples across shops and regions.
Efficiency tips to lower price per board foot
Smart choices minimize waste and simplify processing. Choose board sizes close to your final dimensions, bundle orders to reduce freight, and select a practical grade for the project scope. Timing your purchase away from peak season can also shave some costs if demand softens.
