Isabella Flores
Cedar shake siding is a common feature of many homes, but it can be tricky to paint. Cedar bleed, or tannin bleed, is a common issue that occurs when natural tannins are drawn to the surface of the wood, resulting in reddish-brown discolouration. This can be prevented by using a stain-blocking primer and allowing the siding to dry completely before painting. Power washing, caulking, and proper venting are also important steps to take before painting cedar shake to ensure the paint adheres properly and to prevent moisture problems that can worsen cedar bleed.
How to stop cedar shake from bleeding through paint
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause of cedar bleed | Moisture leaching the natural tannins in red cedar to the surface of the painted area |
| Common causes | Insufficient venting, leaks, caulking, flashing, and other problems that allow moisture to permeate or get behind the wood |
| Installation | Properly cure cedar to a moisture content of 8-15% before treatment, prime and seal all surfaces, use stainless steel ring shank or hot-dipped galvanized nails, use a stain-resistant primer |
| Prevention | Power wash, caulk any areas that might allow moisture in, ensure proper venting and flashing in soffits, siding, and roof, apply a coat of oil-based stain stopper primer and a coat of acrylic solid stain, or apply two coats of a premium stain-blocking acrylic solid stain |
| Priming | Use a high-quality, quick-dry, stain-blocking oil-based primer, use a paintbrush to reach between individual shingles, use a cedar bleed-blocking oil primer or an acrylic primer with cedar bleed-blocking properties |
| Paint | Top coat with exterior acrylic-latex paint, use a two-coat system, back-brush when spray painting |
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What You'll Learn
Use a stain-blocking primer
If you're experiencing cedar bleed, you can use a stain-blocking primer to prevent the natural tannins in the wood from reaching the surface and protect your paint job.
Cedar bleed occurs when the natural tannins in the wood are drawn to the surface of the substrate, often as a result of moisture. This process results in a reddish-brown discolouration. While it does not cause long-term damage to your paint job, it can be frustrating to deal with, especially on a freshly painted surface.
To prevent cedar bleed, you should prime the affected areas with a stain-blocking primer. It is important to note that the primer should be rated as stain-resistant to tannins. Oil-based primers are often recommended for this purpose, as they can lock in the tannin bleed. However, it is crucial to ensure that the primer is compatible with the type of paint you intend to use. For example, an oil-based primer may not be suitable for use with latex paint. You can also use an acrylic primer with specific cedar bleed-blocking properties.
When priming, it is important to prepare the surface properly. This includes scraping, sanding, and power washing the siding to remove any failing paint and expose the raw wood. You should also check the moisture content of the bare siding with a moisture meter to ensure that it is dry before priming and painting. Additionally, make sure to prime all sides of the cedar, including the cut ends and edges, to prevent bleeding.
By following these steps and using a stain-blocking primer, you can effectively prevent and minimise cedar bleed on your cedar shake.
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Power wash and dry the siding
Power washing and drying the siding is an important step in preparing cedar shakes for painting and preventing cedar bleed. Cedar bleed occurs when the natural tannins in the wood are drawn to the surface, resulting in a reddish-brown discolouration. This is often due to moisture issues, such as improper venting, insufficient caulking, leaks, or other situations that allow moisture to penetrate the wood.
To effectively power wash the siding, it is recommended to use a cleaning agent, such as a bleach and water solution, or commercially prepared products designed for this purpose. The siding should be thoroughly wetted, and the cleaning solution should be sprayed on and allowed to set without drying before rinsing with a pressure washer. Stubborn areas may require a second treatment or scrubbing.
After power washing, it is crucial to let the siding dry completely. This drying process can take around 5 to 10 days. During this time, it is important to monitor the moisture content of the bare siding using a moisture meter. Ensuring that the siding is thoroughly dry before proceeding to the next steps is essential for optimal results.
Once the siding is dry, it is important to caulk any areas on and around the trim that could allow moisture to infiltrate the substrate. Proper caulking helps prevent moisture-related issues that can contribute to cedar bleed. Additionally, it is advisable to check for proper venting and flashing in the soffits, siding, and roof to mitigate moisture-related concerns.
By thoroughly power washing and drying the siding, you create a clean and moisture-resistant surface that is better prepared for the subsequent steps of priming and painting. These steps are crucial in preventing cedar bleed and ensuring a high-quality finish when painting cedar shake siding.
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Seal cut ends and edges
To prevent cedar bleed, it is crucial that every surface of the cedar, including cut ends and edges, is primed and sealed. This is because cedar bleed occurs when the natural tannins in the wood are drawn to the surface of the substrate, resulting in a reddish-brown discolouration.
To seal the cut ends and edges of cedar shakes, you should first ensure that the siding is installed properly, including the priming of cut ends. After installation, power wash the siding thoroughly and allow it to dry completely (this can take up to 5-10 days). Once the siding is dry, caulk any areas on and around the trim that might allow moisture to penetrate the substrate.
Next, apply a coat of primer to the cut ends and edges of the cedar shakes. It is important to use a high-quality, quick-dry, stain-blocking oil-based primer or an acrylic primer with cedar bleed-blocking properties. Make sure to get the primer into the spaces between individual shakes so that the inside edges are also covered. Allow the primer to dry completely before applying a top coat of paint.
If you are dealing with old cedar shakes that are already painted and experiencing cedar bleed, you will need to remove the failing paint by scraping, sanding, and power washing the siding. You can then apply a coat of primer to the exposed wood, followed by a top coat of paint.
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Use a water-repellent product and wood filler
Cedar bleed is a common problem in the residential painting industry. It occurs when the natural tannins in the wood are drawn to the surface of the substrate, resulting in a reddish-brown discolouration. This is often due to moisture problems caused by improper venting, leaks, insufficient caulking, or other issues that allow moisture to get behind the wood.
To address this issue, it is recommended to use a water-repellent product and wood filler. Here are the steps you can take:
Firstly, it is important to properly install the siding, including priming cut ends, ensuring proper flashing, and using the correct fasteners. Power wash the surface thoroughly and allow it to dry completely for 5-10 days.
Next, caulk any areas on and around the trim that might allow moisture into the substrate. Pay close attention to areas between clapboards and trim, ensuring proper breathing and moisture escape. Make sure there is adequate venting and flashing in the soffits, siding, and roof.
After preparing the surface, apply a water-repellent product to the affected areas. Look for products specifically designed to repel water and protect wood from moisture infiltration. This will help create a barrier against moisture, reducing the likelihood of cedar bleed.
Once the water-repellent product has dried, use a wood filler to fill in any nail holes or imperfections in the wood. Spot prime each area with a primer suitable for cedar bleed, such as a oil-based primer or an acrylic primer with cedar bleed-blocking properties. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Finally, apply your chosen paint or finish to the surface, following the appropriate application techniques and allowing for adequate drying time between coats.
By following these steps and using a water-repellent product and wood filler, you can effectively address cedar bleed and create a long-lasting finish. Remember that preventative maintenance is key, and proper preparation before painting is essential to achieving the best results.
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Apply two coats of paint
Applying two coats of paint is a crucial step in the process of preventing cedar bleed and ensuring the longevity of your paint job. Cedar bleed occurs when the natural tannins in the wood are drawn to the surface, resulting in unsightly reddish-brown discolouration. While it does not cause long-term damage to the paint, it can be challenging to rectify once it occurs.
To effectively apply two coats of paint and prevent cedar bleed, follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Before applying any paint, ensure the cedar shake is properly prepared. Start by removing any failing paint through scraping, sanding, or power washing. This step is crucial as it exposes the raw wood, providing a fresh surface for the primer and paint to adhere to. Pay close attention to the clapboard overlaps and shadow lines, ensuring there is no paint build-up that could hinder the building's breathing.
Step 2: Prime the Surface
Priming is essential to preventing cedar bleed. Choose a high-quality, oil-based, or acrylic stain-blocking primer with specific cedar bleed-blocking properties. Apply at least two coats of primer to the bare wood, ensuring all surfaces, including cut ends and edges, are thoroughly covered. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Choose the Right Paint
Select a top-quality exterior acrylic-latex paint for your cedar shake. Factory-applied finishes that include a stain-blocking primer and a top coat of 100% acrylic-latex paint are also available and can provide excellent protection. Avoid using a one-coat paint system, as it is not suitable for raw wood or weathered wood and will not provide adequate protection.
Step 4: Apply the First Coat
When applying the first coat of paint, use a 1" nap roller or a brush for detailed work. Ensure the bristles of your brush are filled with paint at least 3/4 of their length to avoid constant dipping and reduce the risk of making a mess. Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 5: Apply the Second Coat
Once the first coat is dry, apply the second coat of paint following the same application method as the first. The second coat provides an additional layer of protection and helps to ensure a uniform finish.
Remember, it is essential to work within the narrow painting window for cedar. Ideally, you should not paint cedar within the first two weeks of installation, and you should not wait longer than 12 weeks before painting.
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Frequently asked questions
Cedar bleed occurs when the natural tannins in the wood are drawn to the surface and deposited on the exterior face of the substrate. These tannins are often observed as a reddish-brown discoloration.
To prevent cedar bleed, you can prime the wood with a cedar bleed-blocking oil primer or an acrylic primer with cedar bleed-blocking properties. You can also use a premium stain-blocking product like Woodscapes by Sherwin-Williams.
To remove cedar bleed, you must first remove the failing paint by scraping, sanding, and power washing the siding. Then, use a wire brush and a 50/50 mixture of water and denatured alcohol to scour the stained paint. Rinse and allow the surface to dry completely before priming and painting.
