Cedar Siding Maintenance
Real wood requires regular maintenance, and cedar siding needs even more than regular pine. Your local climate will affect how often you perform maintenance.
Power wash every two to four years
Both dusty climates and moist climates that foster the growth of mold and moss will require you to wash your cedar siding regularly. For dirt and spider webs, we recommend a non-phosphate detergent with your power washer. For mildew and molds, use oxygen bleach in a mild solution to remove the growth.
Stain or paint as needed, usually every three to five years
It can be tempting to leave your cedar siding to age naturally to a silvery gray. However, this usually means that the wood is left unprotected from the elements, which can eventually cause various pieces to warp or twist. The side of your house that is exposed to direct sun or prevailing weather patterns may need to be cleaned and stained more often. Otherwise, every 3 to 5 years is adequate for staining and painting.
Extractive bleeding
This type of staining is caused by the natural tannins in cedar. It can also be caused by water or by iron that is in contact with the wood. Often, these stains can be rinsed away with a water hose. In other cases, using a mild cleaning solvent will help.
What is Cedar and why is it a Great Building Material?
Cedar wood comes from several different trees known as cedars that grow in different parts of the world. The most common timber imported into New Zealand is Western Red Cedar.
Cedar is a durable softwood timber which has a uniform texture, straight grain, and few knots. It is valued for its distinctive appearance, aroma, and its natural resistance to decay.
Cedar has a high dimensional integrity and is not prone to twisting or warping. Typically, it does not splinter. Filled with natural insecticides the timber is resistant to insects and timber rot. Its light porous texture gives it a high thermal and acoustic insulating value, making it a great cladding for your home.
Cedar is a great finishing product that looks stylish and will stand the test of time when it is properly cared for.