how to choose the right wood for your gate

When selecting a custom gate, the type of wood you choose plays a crucial role in its longevity, appearance, and performance. At Williams Gate Works, we work primarily with three exceptional wood types: Clear Heart Redwood, Western Red Cedar, and Mahogany. Each offers distinct advantages depending on your needs, preferences, and environment.

Let’s explore the key differences so you can make an informed decision.

 Clear Heart Redwood: Timeless Beauty & Natural Durability

Best For: Classic elegance, long-term durability, sustainable sourcing

Clear Heart Redwood is a top choice for high-end outdoor gates thanks to its natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture. Sourced from the heart of the tree, this premium grade wood contains minimal knots and imperfections, giving your gate a clean, uniform look.

Why we love it:

• Naturally rot-resistant and insect-repellent
• Beautiful reddish tones that weather gracefully
• Easy to maintain and refinish
• Sustainable when reclaimed from old-growth sources

We also work with reclaimed old-growth redwood, which offers unmatched strength and environmental responsibility. These boards have stood the test of time and bring a rich story to every gate we craft.

 Western Red Cedar: Lightweight & Resilient

Best For: Coastal environments, decorative garden gates, lighter designs

Western Red Cedar is a versatile softwood known for its aromatic scent and straight grain. It’s lighter than redwood or mahogany, which can be beneficial for certain applications such as pedestrian or garden gates.

Benefits include:

• Great dimensional stability (resists warping and shrinking)
• Naturally resistant to decay and insects
• Easy to stain or paint
• Cost-effective without sacrificing quality

Its warm color palette—ranging from light amber to deep brown—makes it a favorite for those who want a natural yet polished look.

 Mahogany: Rich, Refined & Built to Endure

Best For: High-end statement gates, modern or Asian-inspired designs

Mahogany is a hardwood admired for its deep color, fine grain, and long-term durability. It’s denser than redwood or cedar, making it ideal for driveway gates or larger installations where structural strength is key.

What sets it apart:

• Extremely hard and weather-resistant
• Elegant appearance with a deep reddish-brown hue
• Ages beautifully with minimal upkeep
• Adds instant luxury and curb appeal

If you want a gate that makes a bold architectural statement, mahogany is unmatched in sophistication and strength.

 Expert Advice: How to Choose

When selecting your wood type, consider the following:

      Consideration                                     Best Wood         

Coastal or humid climate                     Redwood or Cedar   

Large/heavy gate design                              Mahogany   

Eco-conscious design                          Reclaimed Redwood   

Lower maintenance                            Redwood or Mahogany   

Rich color & grain                                       Mahogany   

Lightweight needs                                         Cedar   

Still unsure? We’re happy to consult with you, your designer, or your architect to choose the best option for your project.

 Every Gate, Handcrafted with Care

No matter the wood, every gate at Williams Gate Works is handcrafted, 2¼″ thick, and constructed using traditional Old World Joinery techniques for unmatched longevity and strength. Combine your ideal wood with our bronze hardware and unique design options for a gate that’s truly yours.