How To Treat Cedar Siding

Paint s solids ward off light and light is the main contributor to the deterioration of cedar.

How to treat cedar siding.

Learning how to care for cedar shingles whether they are installed as siding or roofing is not particularly difficult. Cedar siding is very durable against the elements but still requires regular maintenance and depending on the climate should be restained every few years. If you re using cedar for an outdoor project give it a light seal coat to guard against moisture and sunlight. Some cedar siding shingles are treated with bleaching oil which is a treatment made with linseed oil and bleach crystals.

Before you give in and paint your shingles realize that cedar shingles can last decades with virtually no maintenance. But a little maintenance can keep them looking great and extend their life even further. Along with protecting your cedar shingles against decay and other coastal contamination this treatment will also give them the weathered silvery gray look that many homeowners prefer. Step 1 clean.

The most damaging element to cedar siding is moisture. Cedar offers a durable option for exterior and interior building projects with natural resistance to rot and decay so a protective finish is optional. Any exposed wood is susceptible to the elements that cause mildew swelling splitting and cracking. Paint is your best option for treating cedar if your only intent is protection.

Treating cedar with primer and paint.