If you're lucky enough to have cedar siding on your home, then you know that it's a high-maintenance wood. Cedar is a beautiful, natural material that needs to be cared for properly to maintain its beauty and integrity.
Maintaining cedar siding is a relatively simple process that can help keep your home looking beautiful and new for years to come. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to care for your cedar siding, from cleaning to staining and more. So read on and learn how to care for cedar siding like a pro!
Quality Cedar Products can meet all your cedar board needs. This blog is informational only and not a replacement for expert advice. Please consult a professional before starting any building project as your needs and specifications may vary and it may not reflect the most current building codes, regulations, or industry standards.
Is Cedar Siding Maintenance Even Necessary in the First Place?
Many wonder…is cedar siding hard to maintain? Do I really need to do anything to keep my siding looking fresh? The answer may surprise you.
Cedar siding is a popular choice for homes and businesses due to its beauty and durability. However, like all exterior materials, cedar siding does require some maintenance to keep it looking its best. While the amount of care required will vary depending on the location and exposure of the siding, some basic steps should be taken to ensure its longevity.
First, it is important to regularly clean the siding to remove dirt, pollen, and other debris that can cause the wood to deteriorate. Second, any damaged or discolored boards should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Finally, the siding should be sealed or stained as an important cedar siding maintenance step to protect the wood from the elements. Caring for cedar siding is not difficult, but it is important to do it regularly to ensure the wood’s longevity.
Why Learning How To Care for Cedar Siding Is so Important
In our article on how long cedar siding lasts, you learned that you can get years and years out of your siding - but, you have to take care of it.
Cedar is a type of wood that has natural oils that make it resistant to rot, decay, and insects. Over time, however, these oils can break down, leaving the wood vulnerable to damage. In addition, cedar is a softwood, which means it is more susceptible to damage from the sun, wind, and rain than hardwoods.
That’s why it’s so important to learn how to care for cedar siding. Here are a few reasons why.
Cedar Siding Protects Your Home or Building
Your property is one of your biggest investments, so it’s important to do everything you can to protect it. Because cedar weathers gracefully, developing a handsome patina over time, your knowledge of how to care for cedar siding will go a long way in protecting your property from the elements.
Maintaining Cedar Siding Extends Its Life
As homeowners, we want our investments to last as long as possible. Regularly cleaning and sealing your cedar siding will give you peace of mind knowing that your home is protected and will extend the life of your siding. Learning how to take care of cedar siding is an important part of being a responsible homeowner.
Caring for Cedar Siding Keeps Your Property Visually Pleasing
No one wants their home or business to look rundown. Maintaining your cedar siding will not only protect your investment but will also help improve its curb appeal. A well-maintained home or building will make a good impression on your neighbors, customers, and clients. If you know how to maintain cedar siding, you can be proud that your property is the best-looking one on the block.
Common Problems That Can Occur Without Proper Cedar Siding Maintenance
Cedar siding is durable - but, there are a few problems that could arise with improper care. Aside from regular and thorough cleaning, there are factors that you also need to be on the lookout for that can damage your cedar siding if left unchecked. Here are some common ones.
Water Stains
Water stains are one of the most common problems with cedar siding. They can occur when rainwater or melting snow is allowed to sit on the surface of the siding for too long. Caring for cedar siding includes removing any debris that could trap moisture against the surface of the wood.
Peeling
Peeling occurs when the finish begins to break down and lift away from the surface of the wood. To prevent peeling, be sure to use a high-quality finish that is specifically designed for cedar siding. You should also reapply the finish every few years along with your cedar siding maintenance to ensure that it continues to provide adequate protection.
Chalking
Chalking is another sign that the finish on your cedar siding is beginning to fail. Chalking occurs when the finish breaks down into a powdery substance. With cedar siding maintenance, you can avoid chalking by regularly cleaning the siding and applying a fresh coat that is compatible with the existing finish.
Mildew and Mold
Mildew and mold can also be a problem with cedar siding if it is not properly maintained. These growths can occur in areas where there is excessive moisture or poor ventilation. Caring for cedar siding can be done by cleaning your cedar siding regularly and repairing any leaks or other sources of moisture as soon as possible.
How To Care for Cedar Siding: Step by Step Guide
Once you know how to maintain cedar siding, it is not difficult, but it does require some effort on your part. The following is a step-by-step guide on how to take care of cedar siding.
Inspect Your Cedar Siding Regularly for Any Signs of Damage
Look for any cracked or chipped boards and replace them as needed. You should also check for any signs of rot, such as discoloration or softness.
Repair Any Damage Promptly
If you notice any cracks, holes, or other damage, make repairs as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration. This is an important step in maintaining cedar siding to keep it in good condition.
Routine Cleaning of Cedar Siding
It is important to regularly clean your siding to remove any dirt or grime build-up. Use a soft brush and mild soap to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid using harsh cleaners or pressure washers, as these can damage the wood.
Treating Cedar Siding With a Sealant
Does cedar siding need to be treated? Only if you want it to maintain its natural beauty for as long as possible! Use a sealant or stain to protect the wood from water damage and UV rays. This will protect its natural color that can otherwise fade due to sun exposure. Reapply every few years as needed.
Use a Two-Coat System for the Best Protection
Applying a sealer or stain is not enough to protect your cedar siding. For the best protection, use a two-coat system that includes a primer and topcoat. It may be a method of how to take care of cedar siding that is a bit more time-consuming, but it will be worth it in the long run.
Does Your Cedar Siding Need an Overhaul?
Over time, even the most well-maintained cedar siding can start to show signs of wear and tear. If you're thinking about giving your home a facelift, it's important to consider all of your options before making a decision. In many cases, simple cleaning and refinishing are all that's needed to restore cedar siding to its original beauty. However, if the damage is more severe, you may need to replace individual boards or even the entire siding.
At Quality Cedar Products, we’ve curated the best selection of exterior cedar siding for homeowners, contractors, and lumber yards alike. There are different styles, grades, and types of siding to choose from, and each has unique benefits. Several factors will come into play when making your decision, such as the climate, budget, and desired look. For instance, weather-resistant siding is a must in areas with high humidity or severe weather conditions. Also, some types of siding are more durable than others, so it is important to consult with an expert like us before making a purchase.
Whether you’re looking to perform this service for a client or you want to redo your home’s siding yourself, we can supply you with the top lumber grades in all of Canada. This will not only ensure that the project looks great but will also build trust between you and your client for using only the best materials.
Final Thoughts on How to Maintain Cedar Siding to Keep it Looking Stunning
Caring for cedar siding isn't difficult, but it does require some diligence and knowledge. The right details on how to take care of cedar siding are vital to keeping your home’s exterior looking great and protecting your investment at the same time. By following the simple steps on how to maintain cedar siding in this guide, you can keep your cedar siding looking as good as the day it was installed. If you’re not sure whether or not your cedar siding needs some TLC, contact the #1 Western Red Cedar Lumber supplier in all of Canada, Quality Cedar Products, to get a pro opinion.
Quality Cedar Products is a family-owned and operated business that has several years of experience in the industry. We are experts in everything cedar, from choosing the right cedar boards to installation and maintenance tips. Visit us online or give us a call at (613) 572-3590 for all your cedar lumber needs!
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