Does Cedar Siding Need To Be Stained

Exterior western red cedar surfaces only need to be refinished when the old coating has worn thin and no longer affords the wood protection.

Does cedar siding need to be stained.

When putting up brand new cedar siding it is recommended that your first stain be oil based alklyd. Wood stains are toxic to inhale and can harm your skin so wear a respirator mask and gloves and apply stain an area with proper ventilation. The following outline is intended to prepare you before buying any such products knowing exactly which type fits your final outcome. The most damaging element to cedar siding is moisture.

After you have washed it wait for it to dry before applying any stain to the cedar. 7 tips painting or staining cedar wood siding walking into a paint store can be overwhelming trying to decide which paint or stain coating you wish to provide your exterior cedar wood and siding as there are many varieties. Use a thick brush when staining. Semi transparent stains are your best bet when you want the real look of slightly weathered cedar with protection.

Use an oil based stain instead of latex. Left unstained cedar s red hue will fade to gray within about a year. However with semi transparent stains you will need to take care with the application. Any exposed wood is susceptible to the elements that cause mildew swelling splitting and cracking.

Cedar siding is very durable against the elements but still requires regular maintenance and depending on the climate should be restained every few years. The few solid particles in this mix will not significantly obscure cedar s wood grain. A variety of siding styles and wood grains give you the opportunity to customize the look of your home. According to paul mackie at the western red cedar lumber association wrcla red cedar siding that has been finished on all six sides with a stain blocking primer and top coated with 100 percent exterior acrylic latex paint has the longest expected service life.

It is the genuine article with beautiful warm aesthetics feel and homey aroma that create an ambience unmatched by vinyl and fiber cement despite their good points. While cedar stands up to the elements fairly well on its own putting a seal or a coat of paint on it can enhance the color and protect the wood from inclement weather. With a new installation of cedar shake siding which can cost around 5 a square foot you shouldn t need to do any prep work before staining or painting. Still some homeowners may desire or feel the need for painting cedar siding.

The wood s structural integrity will remain unless the wood is exposed to excessive moisture which can cause curling cracking and wood rot. In fact you can pay extra for. Cedar takes stain very well revealing rich texture. Prepare your cedar siding by washing it with soapy water to remove any dirt or dust if any has accumulated.

Applying paint and solid color stains.