A mild non phosphate detergent is recommended.
Does cedar siding need to be treated.
Any exposed wood is susceptible to the elements that cause mildew swelling splitting and cracking.
Lighter colors last longer since they reflect light more efficiently than darker colors.
Paint is your best option for treating cedar if your only intent is protection.
Moisture remains a common enemy and the engineered wood siding industry has suffered a number of class action lawsuits due.
Genuine cedar siding is going to require washing and staining sealing or painting on a regular basis.
Cedar siding should be covered with a stain a clear treatment or paint.
Cedar siding is very durable against the elements but still requires regular maintenance and depending on the climate should be restained every few years.
Cedar wood siding should be painted or stained every 6 years or sooner depending on the level of uv exposure in order to reduce the costs of repainting.
Wash wait for it to dry.
Dusty climates will require more frequent washing.
Otherwise it will discolor and may eventually rot.
Be sure to keep the hose pointed downward to avoid forcing water up behind the shingles.
Power wash every two to four years.
Siding requires restaining and regular maintenance.
Although cedar is naturally resistant to rot and decay staining your siding promptly will help in the preventing of deterioration.
Cedar has natural antibacterial and anti fungal properties allowing you to leave the wood untreated without worry of excess warping rotting and cracking.
Your climate and landscape will determine how often these processes are required.
Paint s solids ward off light and light is the main contributor to the deterioration of cedar.
Treating cedar with primer and paint.
Apply it with a pump sprayer let it sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing it off with with a garden hose.
Cedar accepts sealers and stains beautifully and should be refinished every two to three years.
If you plan to keep your cedar s natural color note that cedar can darken dramatically when exposed to sunlight.
Engineered wood siding drawbacks.
Engineered siding does have its flaws.
It does weather though changing color throughout time offering a much more rugged look than stained cedar siding offers.