Exterior Cedar Siding Maintenance

Although pressure washers are a great way of cleaning cedar siding they can be overwhelming for beginners.

Exterior cedar siding maintenance.

Cedar siding is prone to dust and dirt accumulation just like other types of exterior siding. A mild non phosphate detergent is recommended. If you do decide to color your wood there are several options. Prone to dust and dirt accumulation cedar exterior siding receives a good pressure wash on the lowest setting well.

After that the color will rapidly change from red to gray. Basic items required for cleaning cedar siding are. These natural elements slowly erode the finishes and as a result all finishes applied to cedar require regular cleaning and maintenance to perform. Cedar maintenance you don t have to do much to cedar shingle siding if you prefer its weathered gray look other than clean and coat it with a clear water resistant preservative and inspect it for rot and damage periodically.

It does weather though changing color throughout time offering a much more rugged look than stained cedar siding offers. If you are attracted to this look keep in mind that it requires periodic maintenance chalking and painting or staining to prevent weather damage and is susceptible to insect or rodent attacks. Cleaning away the age is the first step in caring for cedar shingles. Apply it with a pump sprayerlet it sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing it off with with a garden hose.

The surfaces of finished western red cedar decks siding and trim boards exposed outdoors inevitably become dirty and can also be discolored by mildew algae and moss. You must clean it twice a year so that it s easier to maintain. Repairs to wood siding require the expertise to remove the damaged siding while leaving surrounding siding intact. Dusty climates will require more frequent washing.

You must be careful and only use a pressure washer on its lowest setting. Be sure to keep the hose pointed downward to avoid forcing water up behind the shingles. Bleaching oil clear coat paint detergent and sealer. Power wash every two to four years.

Expect to pay 200 300 to replace a damaged siding panel or two. Depending on maintenance your rich wood siding can last from 10 to sometimes 100 years. Coating the cedar shingles with a water resistant product helps to preserve the wood against moisture damage. Unless you have the skills hire a professional carpenter or siding contractor.

The cedar bureau recommends using a solution of 1 part bleach to 3 parts water. Your climate and landscape will determine how often these processes are required. Genuine cedar siding is going to require washing and staining sealing or painting on a regular basis.