How often should you seal cedar siding?

Cedar treatments should last 5-7 years

However, you may need to reapply a clear-coat stain every two years.

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Similarly, should you seal cedar siding?

When to Seal Cedar Siding A full seal is important because any space that is missing sealant is more susceptible to water damage and chemical bleeding. Cedar has a natural tendency to dry quickly and resist moisture (with proper ventilation) so other pre-installed siding can also still be sealed or painted.

Also Know, how often does Cedar need to be sealed? Pay special attention to joints, edges and board ends as those areas are especially vulnerable to moisture. These coatings usually need to be repeated every one to two years.

Moreover, how long does untreated cedar siding last?

about five years

How do you maintain cedar siding?

Following are some of the important tips for maintaining your home's cedar siding.

Keep Moisture away. Moisture is the biggest damaging factor for any type of wood.
Look for Termites.
Regularly Inspect the Siding for Cracks.
Clean Cedar Siding Regularly.
Keep Pests away.
Be Regular with Staining and Painting.

37 Related Question Answers Found

Is cedar siding high maintenance?

Cedar siding is unquestionably beautiful, and unbelievably durable. Unfortunately, it is expensive and can be high maintenance. Most people who choose cedar do so for the beauty of the wood, without concern for the expense and maintenance. If you don't have to worry about the cost of siding, cedar may be your choice.

Can cedar siding be power washed?

Power washing can be used to clean cedar as long as the sprayer is set at a low pressure to prevent damaging the wood's soft surface. Once cleaned and allowed to dry, the wood can then be painted using a urethane-acrylic house paint.

How do you weatherproof cedar?

How to Waterproof Cedar Lumber

Clean any dirt accumulated on the wood. If the cedar has a very smooth finish, scuff slightly with 50 grit sandpaper.
Procure a wood waterproofing material.
Apply the waterproofing with a brush or roller, as per manufacturer's instructions.
Recoat with multiple coats.

How long should cedar siding last?

Cedar siding endures the elements well and if maintained properly can last many years. Some manufacturers offer warranties of 25 years or more. Cedar is classified as a durable species.

Should I stain both sides of cedar siding?

If you want long lasting siding, it is a great idea to stain both sides. Start with the underside, and then finish with the top side. The stain helps to seal the siding and prevent moisture intrusion from the underside. You can do either or.

How do you keep cedar from turning gray?

Sweep or brush off the cedar area completely with your broom, removing any large debris and any dirt that can be brushed off easily.
Mix the exterior wood wash, according to package directions, with water in the large bucket.
Clean off the wood wash mixture using a power washer or garden hose.
Dry the cedar.

How do you keep cedar from turning GREY?

Treating Cedar With a Bleaching Oil

If you want the gray, weathered appearance, but also want protection, you will need to take special unnatural efforts to make it look natural. Bleaching oil is a two-step process. First, the oil tones the wood with a light gray pigment to fix the color.

What is the best stain for cedar siding?

The Flood Pro series by PPG Paints comes in a wide range of exterior stains that are ideal for Western Red Cedar products. To add a rich, long-lasting opaque color, there's PPG's 100% acrylic stain which protects against sun and water damage.

What are the disadvantages of cedar wood?

Disadvantages of Cedar Wood Decking:

Cost- Just like composite, cedar can be much more expensive than other wood.
Fades to a weathered grey over the years, which can be a drawback to some people.

Is cedar siding a fire hazard?

Cedar is also susceptible to damage from birds like woodpeckers. Having cedar wood siding is also more risky because cedar is more susceptible to fire damage than vinyl or other non-wood siding, even with a fire-retardant treatment.

How do you clean cedar siding before staining?

Mix the powdered bleach according to directions on the bottle, such as 4 parts water to 1 part powder. Apply the solution with a clean garden sprayer, allowing it to soak for 15 minutes. The bleach will remove much of the discoloration. Use a nylon-bristled scrub brush to remove the rest.

Can cedar be left untreated?

If you leave cedar wood untreated, it will not succumb to the devastating effects of mold, rot and insect damage. However, it will lose its typically golden-brown color. However, even with the proper maintenance, cedar will eventually succumb to fading—usually after about 10 years—and lose its natural tone for good.

Is it OK to paint cedar siding?

Choose the Correct Type of Paint For the Cedar

Exterior grade acrylic-latex paint is the most dependable finish in terms of protecting cedar. For best results, fresh siding should be pre-primed on all six sides with a stain-blocking primer and top coated with 100-percent acrylic-latex paint.

Is Cedar good for siding?

Cedar sidings are tough and resistant to problems such as splitting, swelling and bending. It is naturally resistant to rot and moisture problems. However, like all other wood material, it is best to protect your cedar siding with a protective layer of finish so that it can last longer and look great.

Can you paint over stained cedar siding?

Cedar contains extractives that can discolor paint, so it is necessary to prime the siding prior to painting it. If the underlying stain is dark, have the primer tinted to match your paint color for better coverage.

What are the benefits of cedar wood?

The Advantages of Using Cedar Wood. Cedar wood is widely known for its wonderful aroma and insect-repelling quality. The oil inside the wood emits an earthy, woodsy and slightly sweet scent that has made it a favorite choice for hot tubs, saunas and even within the sensory palette of your favorite colognes.

How do you make wood look old and gray?

To age new wood to a natural silvery gray, to grey-brown or black patina (depending on the wood), let a small piece of steel wool (or a few non-galvanized nails) sit overnight in ordinary white vinegar, then dilute the vinegar solution 1 to 1 with water. (If you used 1/4 cup of vinegar, add 1/4 cup of water.)