Cedar Siding: When and How to Restain It

Cedar siding is one of the most popular and elegant exterior siding materials available on the market today. However, it’s also one that requires a fair amount of maintenance, as every now and then you’ll need to restain the material. While some homeowners are uncertain of when they should do this, experts actually recommend that you restain cedar siding every three to five years, depending on your area’s weather conditions. But how exactly does one restain cedar siding?

In this article, S.I.S. Exterior Renovations gives you tips on how to restain cedar siding.

Clean the Siding

The first thing you need to do when restaining cedar siding is to clean the surface. Mix one part bleach with four parts water and use it to wash the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dirt and reveal the wood finish. Afterwards, rinse the surface with a second damp cloth and pat the siding dry with a dry cloth.

Remove the Finish

Once you’ve cleaned the siding, remove the existing finish with a power sander and 220-grit sandpaper. Sand the wood in small, circular motions until the protective finish is removed and the siding’s natural grain is revealed. Once this is done, remove any remaining sawdust with a clean cloth.

Apply Stain

After the prior finish has been removed, you can start applying fresh stain to the siding. For an even coat, experts recommend that you apply multiple thin layers of stain. Try to prevent the stain from pooling, as this will leave visible brush marks. Then allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Apply a second coat of stain if a deeper color is desired. If you aren’t certain about doing this on your own, don’t hesitate to approach S.I.S. Exterior Renovations, the expert installers of doors and siding, for help.

Seal It

Once you’ve finished applying the new stain, the next step is to seal it with a coat of polyurethane finish. When applying, make sure to follow the grain of the wood, then allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Is your cedar siding too damaged to restain? Ask us about James Hardie® siding! When it comes to siding and window installation projects, S.I.S. Exterior Renovations is your leading service provider, and we won’t let you down! Give us a call at (403) 640-1334 or fill out our contact form to get in touch with us. We serve homeowners in Calgary and other nearby areas.