Leaving Cedar Siding Untreated

Too much direct sun causes the siding to dry out warp and crack.

Leaving cedar siding untreated.

Untreated cedar fences can go for many years before they need to be replaced. However the natural rich coloring can be preserved with routine power washing and a fresh coat of stain or sealant. However it will lose its typically golden brown color. Stained cedar siding requires more maintenance than other woods but also lasts longer.

Horizontal installation is most common but clapboard siding can be used vertically too and diagonal installation in gables and other locations produces interesting aesthetics such as a sunburst design. All cedars tend to turn a satin gray with age if left untreated. While untreated cedar siding shingles offer an attractive weathered look they are more prone to damage caused by weather insects and other conditions. As albany fence designs mentions the natural forces of nature such as wind and rain will slowly cause untreated cedar wood structures such as fences and furniture to fade.

If you leave cedar wood untreated it will not succumb to the devastating effects of mold rot and insect damage. Boards used for clapboard siding have a uniform thickness and they are overlapped to leave no exposed gaps. From a structural standpoint cedar more than holds its own. To avoid this type of damage an option for you is to pick cedar siding shingles that have been factory treated or sealed.

Although weathering begins immediately with cedar it quickly slows to a crawl. It does weather though changing color throughout time offering a much more rugged look than stained cedar siding offers. Untreated cedar siding weathers over time without excessive warping and cracking but still requires care. Cedar wood deteriorates slowly due to its abundance of natural oils.

Other types of siding can only hope to imitate the timeless beauty of cedar and its rich textures and grain. Cedar has natural antibacterial and anti fungal properties allowing you to leave the wood untreated without worry of excess warping rotting and cracking.