Elena Rossi
Cedar siding is a popular choice for homes due to its natural beauty and versatility. However, it requires regular maintenance to protect it from the elements and prevent discolouration. When refurbishing cedar siding, you have two main options: staining or painting. Both methods offer their own advantages and considerations, and the best choice depends on your desired aesthetic and maintenance preferences. This guide will explore the key differences between staining and painting cedar siding to help you make an informed decision for your project.
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What You'll Learn
The benefits of staining cedar siding
Cedar siding is a beautiful addition to any home, but it requires protection from the elements. Staining cedar siding is a great way to protect it while maintaining its natural beauty. Here are the benefits of staining cedar siding:
Protection from the Elements
Cedar siding will eventually turn grey if left unprotected. Staining the wood helps to protect it from rain, snow, and ice. The stain penetrates deep into the cedar fibers, waterproofing them and creating a barrier against moisture. This is especially important for cedar siding because, if it has no room to breathe, it can collect moisture and rot.
Durability
Staining cedar siding can make it more durable and long-lasting. The stain seeps into the wood, becoming a part of the cedar fibers. This means that, even if the surface becomes scratched or chipped, the stain will not easily wear off, and touch-ups are easier than with paint. Additionally, stains are less likely to peel or crack, which can be difficult and costly to fix.
Low Maintenance
Staining cedar siding requires less maintenance than painting. Painted cedar siding may need to be sanded down or completely worn off before it can be repainted or stained. Stained cedar siding, on the other hand, can simply be cleaned with a cloth and water and then restained. This is because water-repellent stains dry out quickly, making cleanup easier.
Aesthetic Appeal
Staining allows the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. The translucent nature of stains lets the wood's grain and color show, enhancing its natural beauty rather than concealing it. Stains also come in a variety of colors, allowing you to add character to your home while still maintaining the warmth and texture of the wood.
Environmental Benefits
Cedar is an environmentally friendly choice for siding. It offers great insulation value, and staining the wood can help to extend its lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
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The benefits of painting cedar siding
Cedar siding is a beautiful addition to any home, adding charm and curb appeal. It is also environmentally friendly and offers great insulation. However, cedar siding will eventually turn grey and must be coated to protect it from the elements.
Painting cedar siding is an effective way to protect the wood from UV rays, moisture, and debris. Paint forms a layer over the shingles, concealing the old wood and any imperfections. This makes it a good option for those who want a more uniform look for their home exterior.
Additionally, paint offers a much wider range of colour options than stain, allowing for more customisation. For this reason, paint is often chosen by those who want their home to stand out with a unique colour or design.
Another benefit of painting cedar siding is that softwoods like cedar are ideal for painting due to their ability to accept paint finish well and hold up over time. Cedar, in particular, is a premium choice for painted siding because of its natural resistance to elements and lack of pitch, which is a common issue with other inexpensive softwoods.
However, it is important to note that painting cedar siding can be a lengthy and tedious process, requiring multiple coats and proper surface preparation. It is also important to prime the wood before painting to ensure the paint job lasts for years to come.
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How to stain cedar siding
Cedar siding is a popular choice for homes due to its beauty and durability. To ensure its longevity, it is important to properly finish and maintain it. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to stain cedar siding:
Prepare the Surface:
Before staining, it is crucial to prepare the cedar siding properly. Start by scraping away any loose, cracked, or peeling finish using a tool like a putty knife or a paint scraper. Be careful not to damage the wood surface. After removing the old finish, sand the bare wood and any remaining finish to smooth out the edges. Use a medium-grit sandpaper and sand with the direction of the wood grain. Ensure you wear the appropriate safety gear, such as a respirator and eye protection, during this process.
Clean the Surface:
After sanding, it is essential to clean the surface thoroughly. Use a commercial mildew remover or a diluted solution of liquid household oxygen-based bleach to kill and remove any mildew. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe handling and application. Once the mildew is removed, scrub the surface with a stiff bristle (non-metallic) brush and clean water. Rinse the surface with clean water to remove any residue. Avoid using a wire brush as it can damage the wood.
Allow the Surface to Dry:
Before proceeding to the next step, ensure that the surface is completely dry. This is crucial as staining over a wet surface can affect the adhesion of the stain. Allow adequate time for the surface to air dry, typically 24 to 48 hours, depending on temperature and humidity.
Apply a Primer:
Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a suitable primer designed for use on cedar siding. Primers help the stain adhere better and can enhance the colour and durability of the stain. Choose a primer that complements the type of stain you intend to use (e.g., oil-based or water-based). Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application, as different primers may have specific requirements.
Stain Application:
Select a high-quality stain designed for cedar siding. You can choose between semi-transparent stains that showcase the wood's natural grain or solid-colour stains that provide heavier coverage. Stir the stain thoroughly during application to prevent settling and colour change. Apply the stain using a brush, roller, pad, or spray. Brush application is generally recommended for better penetration and performance. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application techniques and safety precautions.
Apply a Second Coat (Optional):
Depending on the type of stain and the condition of the wood, you may consider applying a second coat. A second coat of penetrating oil-based stain can provide longer service life, but ensure the wood can accept the additional coat. If using a semi-transparent stain, follow the procedures suggested by the manufacturer to prevent lap marks.
Seal the Surface:
Once the stain has dried, apply a sealer to protect the cedar siding from moisture and UV damage. Choose a sealer specifically designed for cedar, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. Regular maintenance of the finish is essential to maintain the beauty and protection of your cedar siding. Reapply the sealer as recommended, typically every 1-2 years.
Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and follow all safety instructions when working with stains and sealers. With proper preparation, staining, and maintenance, your cedar siding will retain its beauty and durability for years to come.
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How to paint cedar siding
Cedar siding is a classic, durable option for protecting the exterior of your home. It is important to coat cedar siding to protect it from the elements, and you can choose to paint or stain it.
If you want to paint your cedar siding, it is important to first prepare the surface. This includes carefully pressure washing the siding to remove dirt, grime, mildew, and spiderwebs. It is recommended to use a lower-pressure washer with a max PSI of 1600 to avoid damaging the wood. After pressure washing, you should thoroughly scrape off any peeling paint using a sharp tool, such as a scraper or a window glazing tool. If there are any remaining paint ridges, you can sand the siding to create a smooth surface.
Once the surface is prepared, the next step is to prime the cedar siding. Priming is crucial as it protects the raw wood and ensures that the paint adheres properly. Look for a stain-blocking primer, such as an alkyd-oil primer or an oil-based primer with tannin blockers. If the siding is not yet installed, prime all six sides of the board. If it is already installed, apply the primer to as many sides as possible.
After priming, you can finally start applying the paint. It is recommended to hand-brush the paint on rather than spraying or rolling it. Choose a high-quality exterior paint, and consider using an all-in-one paint and primer for added convenience and protection. Apply at least one coat of paint, but preferably two coats for better coverage and longevity.
It is important to note that painting cedar siding may require more maintenance than staining. Paint sits on the surface of the shingles and will eventually peel, requiring scraping and reapplication. Additionally, once the shingles are painted, they can no longer be stained unless the paint is completely removed.
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The disadvantages of painting and staining cedar siding
Cedar siding is a popular material for decks, fences, and outdoor furniture. It is important to coat cedar siding to protect it from the elements. Both paint and stain offer years of protection, but there are some disadvantages to both methods.
Disadvantages of Painting Cedar Siding
Painting cedar siding can be a lengthy and tedious process. It requires multiple coats of paint and primer to ensure that the paint job is of good quality and will last for years. Even with proper preparation, a quality paint job will eventually start to show signs of wear and will need to be repainted every five to ten years. The paint will eventually peel and will need to be scraped off and reapplied, which can be a costly process. Power washing, a common method of cleaning siding, should never be used on cedar siding as it can damage the wood fibers and make it difficult for new finishes to adhere.
Disadvantages of Staining Cedar Siding
Staining cedar siding is easier to touch up if it becomes scratched or chipped and requires less maintenance than painting. However, staining may not be the best option if you want your home to have a unique color or design, as the stain will allow the natural grain of the wood to show through. Additionally, cedar siding that has been painted before cannot be stained unless the paint has been completely sanded down or worn off.
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Frequently asked questions
Staining your cedar siding will allow the natural grain of the wood to show through, showcasing its natural beauty. It is also easier to touch up if it becomes scratched or chipped and requires less maintenance than painting.
Painting cedar siding gives it a more uniform look and allows for a unique colour or design. Paint also offers better protection against the elements and lasts longer than stain.
Painting cedar siding will require more maintenance and upkeep as it will need to be repainted every three to five years. Staining, on the other hand, may require frequent maintenance that is more difficult to tolerate for some homeowners.
