Comparing it with other siding materials helps understand its pros and cons. Cedar siding high maintenance generally requires more maintenance than
High Maintenance Requirements
Additionally, cedar shakes need protective treatments every few years to shield them from the elements, moisture, insects, and fire. Failing to perform this maintenance can lead to significant issues like rot and decay, ultimately shortening the lifespan of the siding.
These natural elements slowly erode the finishes and as a result, all finishes applied to cedar require regular cleaning and maintenance to perform. The degree of maintenance depends on local climatic conditions, the type of finish and end use (deck or siding).
Cedar siding requires a lot of constant care to keep it looking beautiful and in great condition. Cedar is known for its longevity, but it does need help to do so. However, your cedar siding should last at least twenty years.
Left untreated, cedar shakes — individual planks of one of several varieties of cedar — will discolor and begin to soften, with a possibility of rot after about five years, depending on the climate. There are several options for covering cedar siding, including stain, a clear treatment or paint.
Cedar is a softwood, so high-pressure water can more easily damage it. However, with proper technique and care, you can pressure wash cedar siding without causing harm.
For optimal protection and aesthetics, it's recommended to re-stain and re-seal your cedar fence every 3 to 5 years.
Homeowners are always looking for ways to maximize the resale value of their properties, and vinyl cedar shake siding is a wise investment in this regard. When it comes time to sell, you can expect a higher resale value for a home clad in this type of siding than homes with traditional wood siding or other materials.
Cedar siding needs to be repainted every 5-7 years, but if you take some special precautions, you can get up to 10 years from one paint application. In order to do this though, you will need to ensure that you are properly preparing the surface and considering all the environmental factors.
Sealing your cedar siding helps to protect it from moisture, UV rays, and pests, which can help extend its lifespan.
UV rays break down the lignin in the wood, which is responsible for its rich color. As the lignin deteriorates, the natural pigments in cedar wood are affected, causing the wood to lose its initial color and vibrancy.
Unlike pressure-treated wood, cedar doesn't require the use of harsh chemicals during its production, so it is a more eco-friendly choice. Cedar's natural resistance to rot and pests, coupled with its natural beauty and ease of workability, far outweighs the benefits of pressure-treated wood.
Cedar can and will rot and decay, it just takes alot longer than other wood. It can become weak and brittle so it depends on the design of your chairs and the thickness of the planks as to whether or not they'll hold up and support the weight you're going for.
Untreated cedar fences, made of natural and rot-resistant wood, can typically last for approximately 15 to 20 years under ideal conditions. However, a cedar fence treated with a protective stain can prolong its life even further, potentially lasting over 30 years with proper maintenance.
Sensitive. As a softer wood, cedar decking can be more easily scratched or dented by furniture and pet claws.
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, cedar wood has tannins in it that bugs do not like. Once they take a bite of it, they don't like it and move on. So, cedar has a built-in natural bug repellant. This is one of the many reasons cedar is so popular for siding.
Cedar siding installation costs can range from $6,000–$8,000 on the low end to $15,000–$45,000 or more on the higher end, while the average cost is about $13,000. Variables such as cedar type, coverage area, lap style, and wood grade are important to consider.
Cedar siding generally has a life expectancy of 20 to 40 years, but can last an amazing 60 to 70 years in the right conditions. The longevity of cedar siding also depends on whether or not it has been stained or left in its natural state. Some manufacturers offer warranties of more than 25 years for cedar siding.
Wood Grade and Type
Another primary cost factor is the wood grade or the quality of the wood. Cedar siding wood grades range from knotty to premium. Knotty wood is less expensive at about $2.50 to $5 per square foot, but it contains a lot of natural imperfections.
Western Red Cedar
It is well-known for its water and rot-resistant properties, making it a popular choice for outdoor projects such as decking, siding, and fencing. Western Red Cedar contains natural oils and resins that protect it from moisture damage and decay caused by fungi and other microorganisms.
Caveats For Using Stain on Cedar
If the Cedar has considerable shade with little to no UV exposure, using a stain instead of an oil might be appropriate. This is usually when a house is shaded by dense tree cover or has wide soffits, such as villas where the roof extends over the porch.
To maintain and enhance the beauty of cedar, selecting the right products for staining and sealing is crucial. In this regard, Woodrich Brand Timber Oil is highly recommended for its deep penetration and exceptional protection of cedar wood.
The siding can be washed with a mixture of one part of bleach and four parts of water. In order to eliminate dust from the surface, you should wipe it off twice with denatured alcohol and clean rags, followed by a brushed-on coat of oil-based primer such as cover-stain.