How To Stain Cedar Siding Shakes

How to stain cedar shake siding.

How to stain cedar siding shakes.

The brush bristles distribute the stain evenly into the wood grain reaching into the small undulations on the surface of the cedar planking. If you apply oil stain to cedar siding with a roller or a spray unit be sure to backbrush it while it is still quite wet to help it penetrate the wood more effectively. Staining helps keep wood protected and looking beautiful. Cedar shingles contain extractives that bleed to the surface when the wood becomes wet and then darken as the wood dries.

First remove any mill glaze a hard shiny surface on one side of the siding by sanding. If possible stain all sides of the siding before installation. Stains dry rapidly and fresh stain applied over dried stain will show lap marks. Staining cedar siding differs from application of paint and other finishes.

Cedar shingles can also grow moss and algae or develop iron staining which requires periodic cleaning. Cedar siding shingles provide beauty for any home but they must be properly coated to ensure a long life. 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. Those extractives can even bleed through many types of paint.

However with semi transparent stains you will need to take care with the application. Semi transparent stains are your best bet when you want the real look of slightly weathered cedar with protection. 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. The few solid particles in this mix will not significantly obscure cedar s wood grain.

Although some people enjoy this weathered look the chances of wood rotting rises after just a few years. Prevent lapping of the stain. Why stain cedar siding. If cedar planks shingles or shakes are left untreated the wood fades over time.

Those who want a more rustic appearance often lean toward a transparent or. But weather and sunlight take their toll and not everyone is fond of the.