Stained Cedar Siding Maintenance

A thorough cleaning once or twice a year will greatly extend the life of cedar.

Stained cedar siding maintenance.

Step 1 clean. The surfaces of finished western red cedar decks siding and trim boards exposed outdoors inevitably become dirty and can also be discolored by mildew algae and moss. Power wash every two to four years. One of the most thorough methods when staining is to use a thick natural bristle brush.

Semi transparent stains are your best bet when you want the real look of slightly weathered cedar with protection. Before you give in and paint your shingles realize that cedar shingles can last decades with virtually no maintenance. Wood siding is one of the most beautiful of all types of siding and one of the most expensive. It does weather though changing color throughout time offering a much more rugged look than stained cedar siding offers.

Department of agriculture s forest services laboratory recommends cleaning cedar shingles with an oxidizing bleach as opposed to a household bleach to avoid damaging the wood while you can use household bleach to kill mold and algae it tends to make the cedar shingle s surface. Cedar has natural antibacterial and anti fungal properties allowing you to leave the wood untreated without worry of excess warping rotting and cracking. But a little maintenance can keep them looking great and extend their life even further. Learning how to care for cedar shingles whether they are installed as siding or roofing is not particularly difficult.

Stained cedar siding requires more maintenance than other woods but also lasts longer. Prepare your cedar siding by washing it with soapy water to remove any dirt or dust if any has accumulated. Use a thick brush when staining. Top rated siding experts tell our team that stain is a more effective protectant for cedar and lasts longer than paint.

If you d like to avoid repairs that could cost thousands of dollars and you d like to keep your clapboard shingles or board and batten lasting for decades regular upkeep and maintenance is critical. Staining cedar with a semi transparent stain. A solid color latex house stain offers the appearance of paint. A solid color stain or paint tends to give cedar a more formal appearance while a transparent stain or clear waterproofing treatment provides a more rustic look.

After you have washed it wait for it to dry before applying any stain to the cedar. Prone to dust and dirt accumulation cedar exterior siding receives a good pressure wash on the lowest setting well. A mild non phosphate detergent is recommended. Your climate and landscape will determine how often these processes are required.

Cedar shingles can also grow moss and algae or develop iron staining which requires periodic cleaning. Genuine cedar siding is going to require washing and staining sealing or painting on a regular basis. Dusty climates will require more frequent washing.