Final answer:
Redwood is a suitable alternative to pressure-treated lumber as it meets Michigan Residential Code requirements for durability and resistance to decay, being rich in tannins and having specialized tracheids for water transport.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Michigan Residential Code requires that lumber used in construction be durable and resistant to decay, especially for outdoor structures like decks. In the absence of pressure-treated wood, Redwood is an excellent alternative. Redwood, a member of the cedar family, produces wood that is high in tannins, which contributes to its durability and resistance to decay.
The water-conducting cells, or tracheids, in redwood make it especially suitable for outdoor use due to their ability to withstand the tensions of water transport within tall trees. The production process of lumber from logs involves sawmills near forests to create efficiently transportable boards, and byproducts like sawdust are often utilized for making plywood and particleboard.