Cedar wood may last over 20 years when used in outdoor structures, such as decks, pergolas, gazebos, or furniture. It can last between 15 and 20 years when used for constructing a fence or support posts.
Cedar is a type of wood that is known for its durability and resistance to rot, making it a popular choice for outdoor structures such as fences and decking. However, cedar is not immune to rot, and eventually, even cedar posts will deteriorate over time.
Untreated cedar can last 25 to 30 years without wood infusions or surface treatments, unlike many other types of decking material. However, this doesn't mean that a cedar deck requires zero maintenance.
Cedar is one of the most durable and long-lasting woods, making it much more suitable as a material for fencing. It can last for more than 15 to 30 years and is exceptionally sustainable.
It's a durable wood that is naturally resistant to rot, decay and insect attacks, and resists moisture absorption, so it tends to last longer, needs less maintenance, and doesn't warp or split as easily. A cedar deck can last for 15-20 years or more, depending on maintenance and environment.
Cedar is highly resistant to rot and termites due to its natural resins. This allows the wood to last for many years without any maintenance or treatment. It is does not warp or sag and is highly resistant to humidity. This makes it a great choice for outdoor settings.
Due to its chemical properties, cedar is naturally weather-resistant and repels most bugs. But over the years it can crack slightly and develop a fuzzy surface texture unless it's periodically refinished. Cedar accepts sealers and stains beautifully and should be refinished every two to three years.
Did you know that untreated cedar wood changes color over time? Cedar wood has unique qualities and properties that make it an excellent fencing material choice, but a cedar fence can quickly change color from that beautiful red color it was when it was first installed to a silvery gray.
The answer: it takes about two weeks for the wood to change from red to gray. However, many factors can contribute to the length of time for the wood to change colors. If your fence is shaded and dry, the color will last longer than a fence exposed to full sun or one that is heavily hit by rain or snow.
Cedar should be stained as soon as it will accept the stain. This is easy to determine with penetrating semi-transparent stains. Apply the stain, if it soaks in its ready. If it pools on the surface, do it later.
On bare new or restored cedar, apply one coat only of water-repellent preservative (1% or less of wax by volume and content). Allow it to dry for the period of time recommended by the manufacturer. If the wood has been dip treated, a longer drying time may be needed.
Today, Western Red Cedar is used for building and is especially famous for outdoor structures such as gazebos, pergolas, and decks. This wood is also used in siding, paneling, and garden benches because it is a natural termite repellent due to its soft, earthy smell.
What is cedar lumber? Natural cedar lumber is naturally rot-resistant and needs no pressure treatment. Because cedar takes longer to grow than pine, it is the more expensive option. Cedar ages well and resists wear over time.
If properly maintained, the wood can last decades. As a contractor and decking specialist, I've seen some cedar decking last more than 50 years. But the key to that longevity is maintenance. You need to stain it every one to three years to keep it looking its best.
Unless you particularly want untreated cedar wood, it's best to treat it. Cedar fences should be treated once a year. Cedar's natural oils do protect the wood, but only for a finite period. Eventually, decay will start to set in.
Used to preserve the Cedar's natural color and appearance, transparent or semi-transparent solvent-borne penetrating stains are recommended. Transparent stains are similar in composition to semi-transparent stains but contain fewer pigments that provide color.
There are many ways to clean your cedar siding, one of which is by power washing. Power washing your cedar siding is a quick and easy way to remove dirt, stains, mold, and mildew from the wood. You should only power wash your cedar siding if you are sure the wood is not cracked or damaged.
With a good consistent technique, a pressure washer can bring gray cedar back to looking fresh without the need for detergents and scrubbing.
While there are many deck cleaners available on the market, we have found a solution of warm water, TSP (trisodium phosphate), and a small amount of bleach (or powdered oxygen bleach like Oxiclean) to work really well and be very cost-effective.
Properties. Western Red Cedar is one of the world's most durable woods, as it has a natural resistance to moisture, decay and insect damage. It has twice the stability of most commonly available softwoods due to its low density and shrinkage factors.
For optimum surface durability, the first coat may be of high gloss lacquer followed by one or two coats of matte or satin lacquer. On smooth cedar, a final coat of wax will impart a rich sheen to the wood. Clear varnish is recommended only for smooth surfaces. It will inevitably add a richer, darker tone to cedar.
What debate? Oil is the way to go when it comes to cedar, no contest. While stain only coats the surface of the wood, oil works in partnership with one of cedar's basic features.
If you're looking to make a lengthy investment, consider the fact that cedar fences will stand, with no maintenance, for up to 25 years. Meanwhile, pressure treated pine last up to 15 years, provided you are regularly maintaining it.