How to Treat and Care for Cedar Siding
Cedar siding remains a popular choice for homeowners because it offers a versatile, durable and environmentally-friendly wood exterior option. Depending on the design, cedar siding brings warmth to a rustic retreat or contemporary lines to modern architecture. With routine care and maintenance, cedar siding provides an effective, natural barrier against harsh elements and bug infestation. Treating with a water repellant stain or paint prevents damage to the siding and extends its beauty and function.
Items Needed
- Broom
- Drop cloths
- Mild detergent
- Bucket
- Scrub brush
- Water hose
- Mildew remover
- Caulk
- Stain or paint
- Water-repellant coating
Instructions
- Move outside decorations, pots and patio furniture away from the house. Close windows and doors to prevent dirt and water from entering the house. Use a broom or telescoping brush to sweep cobwebs and loose dirt from the siding and eaves. Cover delicate landscape plants with drop cloths.
- Mix a cleaning solution of water and mild detergent together in a bucket. Use a soft-bristle brush to scrub dirt and grime from the siding. Start at the top of the house and work to the bottom. Rinse siding with a garden hose as you go to keep the soap from drying on the siding.
- Treat mildew with a commercial mildew remover or a diluted bleach solution of 2 cups oxygen bleach and 1 gallon of water. Do not use chlorine bleach on cedar siding. Dip a brush into the mildew-remover solution and scrub effected areas. Rinse with a garden hose before the bleach dries on the siding.
- Fill cracks and gaps in the siding with exterior caulk. Inspect areas around the eaves and corners for gaps. Use caulk on cracks and gaps on the top and sides of the siding. Leave space on the bottom side of the siding to allow moisture to escape. Hammer loose nails back into place.
- Apply a water-repellant coating to natural or lightly-stained cedar siding. Keeping water from soaking into the cedar prevents costly damage. Use a brush to coat the siding with the water-repellant coating. Reapply as directed by the manufacturer, usually once every few years.
- Cedar siding that is painted or stained dark requires additional maintenance. Inspect the siding annually for fading, blistering, chipping or peeling. Scrape loose paint with a putty knife to remove it from the surface. Touch up the siding with new paint or stain.