Does Cedar Siding Need To Be Treated

Moisture remains a common enemy and the engineered wood siding industry has suffered a number of class action lawsuits due.

Does cedar siding need to be treated.

Paint s solids ward off light and light is the main contributor to the deterioration of cedar. Engineered siding does have its flaws. It does weather though changing color throughout time offering a much more rugged look than stained cedar siding offers. Power wash every two to four years.

Any exposed wood is susceptible to the elements that cause mildew swelling splitting and cracking. Engineered wood siding drawbacks. The cedar bureau recommends using a solution of 1 part bleach to 3 parts water. Otherwise it will discolor and may eventually rot.

Cedar has natural antibacterial and anti fungal properties allowing you to leave the wood untreated without worry of excess warping rotting and cracking. Siding requires restaining and regular maintenance. Genuine cedar siding is going to require washing and staining sealing or painting on a regular basis. Once the paint starts to peel costs can quickly grow as sanding out walls is not cheap let alone replacing warped twisted and cracked siding panels.

Cedar accepts sealers and stains beautifully and should be refinished every two to three years. A mild non phosphate detergent is recommended. If you plan to keep your cedar s natural color note that cedar can darken dramatically when exposed to sunlight. Paint is your best option for treating cedar if your only intent is protection.

Although cedar is naturally resistant to rot and decay staining your siding promptly will help in the preventing of deterioration. Lighter colors last longer since they reflect light more efficiently than darker colors. Cedar wood siding should be painted or stained every 6 years or sooner depending on the level of uv exposure in order to reduce the costs of repainting. Treating cedar with primer and paint.

The sooner you treat your cedar the better. Wash wait for it to dry. Apply it with a pump sprayer let it sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing it off with with a garden hose. Your climate and landscape will determine how often these processes are required.

Be sure to keep the hose pointed downward to avoid forcing water up behind the shingles.