Cedar Siding: The Longevity Factor

Cedar siding is a popular choice for homeowners due to its natural look and curb appeal. However, it requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. So, how long does cedar siding last on a house?

Well, that depends on several factors, including the type of cedar used, the quality of maintenance, and environmental conditions. Untreated cedar siding will typically last around five years before it starts to rot and soften due to moisture exposure. On the other hand, painted cedar siding can last around 12 to 15 years, while cedar shake siding can endure for 20 to 40 years with proper care. Overall, cedar siding can last anywhere from 5 to 70 years, but a well-maintained cedar siding can generally last between 20 to 40 years.

Cedar siding can last between 5 and 40 years, depending on the type and maintenance

Cedar siding is a popular choice for homeowners due to its natural look and curb appeal. However, the longevity of cedar siding depends on several factors, including the type of cedar used, maintenance, and environmental conditions.

Types of Cedar Siding

Cedar siding is available in various forms, each with its own durability characteristics. Here are some common types:

• Cedar Shake Siding: This is a pricey option, ranging from $6 to $12 per square foot. Well-maintained cedar shake siding can last between 20 to 40 years. To ensure longevity, it's crucial to keep the siding elevated to prevent moisture and insect damage.
• Natural Cedar Siding (Untreated): Leaving cedar untreated can lead to issues such as wood rot and pest infestation. Untreated cedar siding typically lasts for about five years before it starts to deteriorate due to exposure to the elements.
• Painted Cedar Siding: Applying paint is another effective way to protect cedar siding. With the right preparation and high-quality primers, painted cedar siding can last for 12 to 15 years before requiring repainting.

Maintenance and Environmental Factors

Maintaining cedar siding is essential to ensure its longevity. Regular inspections for insects, moisture, and cracks are necessary. Additionally, controlling moisture and preventing wood-destroying insects can help extend the lifespan of cedar siding.

The frequency of maintenance also depends on the local climate. For example, in regions with high moisture levels, such as near the ocean or in areas with frequent rainfall, more frequent maintenance may be required.

Longevity of Cedar Siding

Cedar siding can last anywhere from 5 to 40 years, and in some cases, even up to 60 to 70 years, depending on the type of cedar, the quality of maintenance, and the environmental conditions. Proper installation, regular cleaning, and protection from the elements are key factors in ensuring the longevity of cedar siding.

Untreated cedar siding will begin to rot within 5 years

Cedar siding is a popular choice for homeowners due to its natural look and ability to blend well with the environment. However, untreated cedar siding will begin to rot within 5 years of installation. Here's why:

The Impact of Moisture on Untreated Cedar Siding

Untreated cedar siding that is exposed to moisture, especially in rainy or snowy conditions, will start to soften and rot within 5 years. This is because cedar is a wood siding option, and wood is susceptible to water damage over time. To prevent this, it is recommended to keep the siding elevated and away from direct contact with the ground.

The Importance of Finish for Cedar Siding

Applying a finish to cedar siding is crucial for protecting it from the elements. A finish creates a protective barrier that shields the wood from moisture, pests, and other external factors. Without a finish, untreated cedar siding is vulnerable to rot, warping, and other forms of deterioration.

Maintenance Requirements for Untreated Cedar Siding

Even if you choose to leave your cedar siding untreated, regular maintenance is still necessary to prolong its lifespan. This includes inspecting for insects, moisture, and cracks, as well as cleaning and sealing the siding. While untreated cedar siding may last for a few years, it will require consistent upkeep to prevent premature deterioration.

The Drawbacks of Untreated Cedar Siding

Untreated cedar siding has several disadvantages. Firstly, it is more prone to wood rot, mildew, and insect damage. Secondly, it requires more frequent maintenance, such as restaining or repainting every few years. Additionally, untreated cedar siding may not be suitable for regions with high moisture levels, as it can absorb water and warp.

The Benefits of Treated Cedar Siding

Treating cedar siding with a finish, such as paint or stain, can significantly extend its lifespan. Treated cedar siding can last between 20 to 40 years, or even up to 60 to 70 years in the right conditions. Proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning and sealing, can help achieve this longevity.

In summary, untreated cedar siding will begin to rot within 5 years due to its susceptibility to moisture damage. To avoid this issue and extend the lifespan of your siding, it is recommended to apply a finish, maintain it regularly, and consider the environmental conditions in your region.

Painted cedar siding can last 12-15 years

Painted cedar siding is a great way to protect cedar wood, much like staining. If done correctly, painted cedar siding can be long-lasting and last around 12-15 years. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your painted cedar siding:

Primer and Paint Selection

Cedar is a porous wood that will soak up standard paint. Therefore, it is important to prime the siding with a stain-blocking primer. If possible, remove the siding and apply a coat of primer to all six sides of the slats. If not, ensure that all exposed areas are coated evenly. For the top coat, use 100% acrylic-latex paint, a thick and weather-resistant paint that will fill in any pores or imperfections in the wood.

Application

You can use a brush, sprayer, or roller to apply the paint. Using a brush will allow for the thickest coat but will be time-consuming. If you spray or roll the paint, go back over it with a brush while it is still wet to ensure the paint gets deep into the porous wood. If your cedar siding is new, be sure to paint it within two weeks of installation. The sun and weather will affect its ability to hold the coating.

Timing

The timing of your paint job is important. If your cedar siding is exposed to large amounts of sunlight, it will start to turn grey and become dry and brittle, affecting the longevity of the paint job. In addition, cedar siding is susceptible to damage from the elements, so it is crucial to prepare and paint it with high-quality products.

Maintenance

To ensure your cedar siding lasts as long as possible, regular maintenance is required. This includes checking for pests, insect damage, moisture, and water damage. In addition, the siding should be cleaned of dirt and debris and may need to be repainted or restained. Proper installation and quality maintenance will help extend the life of your cedar siding.

Cedar siding requires regular maintenance to check for pests, moisture and cracks

Cedar siding is a popular choice for homeowners due to its natural look and warmth. However, it requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and to prevent damage caused by pests, moisture, and cracks.

Pests such as termites, carpenter bees, ants, and rodents can wreak havoc on cedar siding. Termites, for example, can eat away at the wood that holds the siding in place, causing structural damage. Carpenter bees may drill holes in the siding, resulting in unsightly damage. Regular inspections for pest activity and taking preventive measures, such as using pest-specific insecticides, are crucial to protect your siding.

Moisture is another significant threat to cedar siding. Water vapour from inside the house, leaking roofs, or missing/damaged flashing can all contribute to moisture problems. To mitigate this, it is essential to ensure proper ventilation, address any roof leaks, and maintain the flashing. Using a moisture meter to monitor moisture levels is advisable, and keeping the moisture in your home well-insulated and controlled is essential.

Additionally, cedar siding is susceptible to cracking. UV rays can cause the wood to expand and contract, leading to cracks. Regular inspections and prompt sealing of any cracks with appropriate sealants or paint can help prevent further damage and reduce moisture infiltration.

To summarise, cedar siding is a beautiful and robust option for homes, but it requires diligent maintenance. Regular checks for pests, moisture, and cracks, followed by appropriate remedial actions, are vital to ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your cedar siding.

Cedar siding is a costly option

The price of cedar siding depends on several factors, including the type and grade of wood, the style of siding, and the cost of labor. The type of cedar selected for siding significantly affects the overall cost. Sourcing certain types of cedar can be difficult and therefore more expensive. For example, Alaskan yellow cedar is harder to source and costs $9 to $11 per square foot, while western red cedar is easier to source and costs $3 to $5 per square foot.

The grade of the wood also impacts the price, with premium-grade wood being the most expensive option at $10 to $30 per square foot. This type of wood comes from more mature trees, resulting in better texture and color consistency and fewer natural imperfections. On the other hand, knotty-grade wood is less expensive at $2.50 to $5 per square foot but contains many natural imperfections.

The style of siding can also affect the cost. More elaborate styles, such as shingle or shake cedar siding, are trickier to install and, therefore, more expensive. The labor for cedar siding installation typically accounts for 15% to 40% of the total cost, but it can go up to 50% or more in some cases.

In addition to the primary cost factors, there are also additional costs to consider, such as the removal of existing siding, staining or painting, repairs, and ongoing maintenance. For example, staining or painting cedar siding can cost $3 to $6 per square foot for both materials and labor.

While cedar siding is a costly option, it offers a natural look to your home and blends well with the environment. It is also durable, sustainable, and resistant to rot and pests. Proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning and sealing, can help extend the lifespan of cedar siding to 20 to 40 years.

Frequently asked questions