How To Stain Cedar Siding Shakes

Department of agriculture s forest services laboratory recommends cleaning cedar shingles with an oxidizing bleach as opposed to a household bleach to avoid damaging the wood while you can use household bleach to kill mold and algae it tends to make the cedar shingle s surface.

How to stain cedar siding shakes.

Cedar shingles contain extractives that bleed to the surface when the wood becomes wet and then darken as the wood dries. Although some people enjoy this weathered look the chances of wood rotting rises after just a few years. Stains dry rapidly and fresh stain applied over dried stain will show lap marks. Those extractives can even bleed through many types of paint.

If possible stain all sides of the siding before installation. Cedar shingles can also grow moss and algae or develop iron staining which requires periodic cleaning. First remove any mill glaze a hard shiny surface on one side of the siding by sanding. Staining cedar with a semi transparent stain.

A stain or clear coating needs one or two finish coats depending on the cedar shake grade and whether you re applying a solid or semi transparent product. Prevent lapping of the stain. Staining cedar siding differs from application of paint and other finishes. However with semi transparent stains you will need to take care with the application.

The brush bristles distribute the stain evenly into the wood grain reaching into the small undulations on the surface of the cedar planking. The few solid particles in this mix will not significantly obscure cedar s wood grain. Those who want a more rustic appearance often lean toward a transparent or. Semi transparent stains are your best bet when you want the real look of slightly weathered cedar with protection.

Cedar siding shingles provide beauty for any home but they must be properly coated to ensure a long life. Why stain cedar siding. Staining helps keep wood protected and looking beautiful. But weather and sunlight take their toll and not everyone is fond of the.

How to stain cedar shake siding. Hiring a professional to paint or stain cedar siding will cost 2 500 to 4 000 or more depending on your home s size and the labor required.