It is moderately strong in bending, strong in endwise compression, stiff, moderately low in shock resistance and holds paint well. Redwood works easily with both hand and machine tools, with little dulling effect on tools. It planes well, provided the cutters are sharp and it splinters easily when working on the end grain. It holds nails well, and paints and finishes satisfactorily. It also stains well, but glues best with alkaline adhesives.
Redwood is rated as resistant to very resistant to heartwood decay.
Redwood is moderately resistant to preservative treatments. Working with redwood may cause allergic reactions.