Cedar sidings are prominent among homeowners. It is used more than vinyl or aluminum siding.
It is glamorous, considered to be an environment-friendly material, and it is very durable. It helps add a standard and warm look to a home’s exterior look. It has a variety of designs and is an outstanding heat and noise insulator.
Many homeowners who have cedar sidings often wonder between painting or staining, which would be the best. You might choose to give your home a new look, particularly if the exteriors are beginning to look a bit worn out.
Some other relevant questions include; what kind of paint is ideal to use on a cedar siding or if it is okay to paint over a stained cedar.
Paint and stain both have a similar pigmented ingredient that assists in coating the surface of wood furniture. However, the distinction between them is that while one absorbs into the wood, the other simply covers it.
Whether you want to paint or stain, it is best to go through the pros and cons of using one of them, knowing their durability, and then finally making a reasonable choice.
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Using Paint on Cedar Siding
One thing to bear in mind is that not all cedar sidings are acceptable for painting. Before painting, inquire from the manufacturer or check out which paint is decent enough to be used on it. Most cedar sidings are cut and meant to slide off themselves as it ages.
If you are determined to paint, note that the procedure is very crucial. Leaving out corners could result in the paint clasping off poorly. Examine the cedar sidings properly and know what paint to use on them. Acrylic paints are suggested for their tough adhesive nature and protection. Make use of cover wraps to cover areas you are not painting, such as the windows. You can also make use of a primer as it assists in presenting a smooth-looking paint job.
Pros and Cons of Painting Cedar Siding
PROS: Paint can be applied to almost any wooden surface. It is available in variations of colors and even complimentary ones. It is simple to apply and gives you a choice when it comes to choosing which to use. Painting requires easy processes, so you don’t have to worry about getting yourself any complex equipment. All you need are the basic tools like the brush, a rag, and a primer.
CONS: Unlike staining, painting can be costly and time-consuming. It is a several-day job that imposes hours for the coatings on layers to dry. If you are painting for the first time, getting a fresh paint job won’t most likely be feasible. To achieve decent work, practice on other furniture before moving ahead to painting your cedar sidings.
Using Stain on Cedar Siding
Staining is a form of painting. It assists in enhancing the realistic color an item of furniture already has. Plus, it preserves the wood making it appear shiny and flawless. Staining can be done severally. You can apply it on a surface over and over again. When applied, it absorbs itself into the wood and prevents rots or moisture from seeping into it.
Just like how paint isn’t advisable for all cedar sidings, the same goes for staining a surface. While some sidings might handle it well, some might not. And if a stain not compatible is being applied repeatedly when not necessary, it could damage the entire appearance of the cedar siding.
Before staining, ensure that you make use of one decent enough. Ensure the covering you are staining is prepped properly; you can make use of sandpaper to smoothen the surface and then clean off any residues.
Pros and Cons of Staining Cedar Siding
PROS: As mentioned above, staining helps to modify your woodwork and gives it a better look than it had before. Rather than fading off instantly, it does so gradually, and its process leaves behind no defects. It allows re-applying and continues to give your home exterior its shiny appearance. Stains that work well are solid stains or semi-translucent.
CONS: As staining has its pros, it definitely has its cons. And that is its long-lasting duration. As hinted, it requires re-applying. It is something you can keep on applying if you discover that the previous stain is wearing off. While this may seem easy, it cuts down on your cost budget as you would be obliged to get a set of stains over the years.
Which Lasts Longer?
A component that can deduce the durability of these two is their ability to withstand exposure to excessive weather. If you stay in a place where there is an unreasonable amount of sun, painting isn’t advised. Another component is moisture. Stains absorb moisture well while paint does not.
Paint can last up to seven or eight years but is inclined to peel off and leave behind a poor look. Staining requires re-applying and can last up to three or four years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you paint over a stained cedar siding?
Technically, yes. You can. Stained sidings can be painted over. However, this implies that a few examinations will be carried out along with a long-time responsibility. To paint over stained sidings, prime out any leftover residues before you apply paint.
Is it better to use paint or stain?
You can make use of both. Paint aids in blanketing the surface of the wood and needs ample scraping when it begins to peel off. Staining is natural and practical, and it contributes to the protection of the wood’s surface.
Is sanding required before you paint over the stain?
An exaggerated amount of sanding isn’t really necessary. If you don’t want that, you could make use of a stain remover or sandpapers.
Conclusion
Be it painting or staining to help add a distinctive look to your cedar siding, in the end, it all depends on the decision you make and what type of look you want. Either way, both of them work adequately.