Is his neighbor's new redwood deck legal?

Q: My neighbor is building a redwood deck! I thought this was an endangered and protected tree.

A: Jumping from my SUV, brushing aside the bald-eagle feathers on my spotted-owl hat, I grasped the ivory stair railing in utter shock at the impetuosity and presumption of your question!

Actually, coast redwood is harvested only from private lands. Ninety-five percent of the old growth is protected in parks. Four of every five acres under commercial harvest are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council or Sustainable Forestry Initiative. California state law requires a sustained yield plan on all lands over 50,000 acres.

Redwood actually is a very fast-growing tree, as much as 130 feet in 30 years. It is a popular wood for decking as it is long-lasting in the weather, easy to work with and accepts paints and stains well. While not as popular in our area as cedar, it has a rich color that is appealing.

Q: Can you give me some idea of how long water heaters can be expected to last and what signs I can look for to know I have one about to burst?

A: Gas units typically will last for approximately 10-12 years, electric 12-15.

The date of manufacture is encoded on the serial number on the data plate. Each manufacturer reports it slightly differently. For example, a serial number for a unit built in 1995 typically is seen as 0695xxxx or 9506xxxxx, the 06 relating to the month or week of production.

Warning signs of imminent failure are rust and corrosion at the exterior casing, water seepage or rust staining at the base or openings and bad rust at the connection pipe nipples.

Darrell Hay answers readers' questions. Call 206-464-8514 to record your question,