How do you maintain cedar shake siding?
Cedar shakes require regular cleaning to keep them free from things like moss, algae, and mold. They also require surface treatments to protect from things like the elements, moisture, insects, and fire. These protective treatments are required every few years to remain effective.
How often should you seal cedar siding?
Depending on the annual local weather conditions and how much damage it does to the cedar siding, expect to restain every three to five years. There will be no difficulty in determining when it is time to do the job.
How long do cedar shake siding last?
If well-maintained, cedar shake siding endures the elements well and can last many years. Some manufacturers offer warranties of over 25 years because cedar shake siding can last 20-40 years when well-maintained. However, your cedar shake siding should stay off of the ground to extend its longevity.
Should you seal cedar shake?
Never seal your cedar roof. Sealing the roof will lock in moisture that would otherwise naturally evaporate during normal weather conditions. Cedar needs to breathe and thus a water repellant type product, rather than a water proofer is the best route to follow.
How do you keep cedar shakes looking new?
If you have weathered and discolored wood siding, you can regain the new look of cedar by cleaning off the dirt and mildew with a solution of one third cup liquid household detergent (be sure it is ammonia-free), one quart liquid household bleach (containing 5% sodium hypochlorite), and three quarts warm water.
Can you leave cedar siding untreated?
All cedars tend to turn a satin-gray with age, if left untreated. However, the natural, rich coloring can be preserved with routine power washing and a fresh coat of stain or sealant. Other types of siding can only hope to imitate the timeless beauty of cedar and its rich textures and grain.
Should I clear coat cedar?
Transparent, non-flexible, film-forming finishes such as lacquer, shellac, urethane, and varnish are not recommended for exterior use on cedar. Ultraviolet radiation can penetrate the transparent film and degrade the wood.
Is Power Washing bad for cedar siding?
Power washing can be used to clean cedar as long as the sprayer is set at a low pressure to prevent damaging the wood’s soft surface. Once cleaned and allowed to dry, the wood can then be painted using a urethane-acrylic house paint. It is unsightly, but the cedar has not been damaged.
How do you keep cedar shake looking new?
Can I spray cedar shake siding?
Spraying upwards under the shingles can force water behind the siding. You will know better after it’s all prepped, but you’ll probably need an oil-based wood primer. It can be top-coated with most any quality latex house paint.
How do you keep cedar looking new outside?
The best clear Cedar finish stain for outdoors is Linseed oil, hands down. Linseed oil is the primary ingredient in any oil finishes, which dries clear. You can find other clear water-based stains, but will not last nearly as long as a Linseed oil based stain will.