Wood Shake Siding Maintenance

Experts suggest the following routine maintenance for cedar siding.

Wood shake siding maintenance.

Genuine cedar siding is going to require washing and staining sealing or painting on a regular basis. Coating the cedar shingles with a water resistant product helps to preserve the wood against moisture damage. Choosing to work on cloudy days allows the solutions to work more effectively because it evaporates slowly. Trim overhanging branches that drop pine needles or leaves on the roof.

Nail down or replace as needed. Trees can trap moisture against the siding. Ensure adequate year round ventilation of the attic or roof assembly. Cedar maintenance you don t have to do much to cedar shingle siding if you prefer its weathered gray look other than clean and coat it with a clear water resistant preservative and inspect it for rot and damage periodically.

Before applying stain or paint secure loose shakes replace rotten or damaged ones and fill blemishes with putty or caulk. Tive treated shakes and shingles are also available. Check periodically for damaged or loose boards. Four ounces to one cup of water.

Even if not required cca pressure impregnation of shakes and shingles can dra matically extend their service life especially in areas where. To remove the stain clean with a solution of oxalic acid dissolved in warm water. A garden hose can do an adequate job. Give it at least 24 hrs drying time before further handling.

This is probably not required for shakes and shingles used in siding applications but it is prudent to check. Avoid splashing the mixture onto adjacent surfaces. That applies not just to the air temperature but to the surface temperature of the shingles themselves. Wash once a year.

Contact with moisture causes the fastener to oxidize leaving streaks. Using a pump sprayer and a 4 or 5 paint brush you can cover a wide area by spraying and then back brushing the surface to work the stain into the wood. Your climate and landscape will determine how often these processes are required. The areas where siding meets the roof windows or trim can be the most susceptible to damage because water can pool here more easily.

A garden hose may be sufficient. Clean debris out of gutters and off the roof both the surface areas and the keyways between shakes or shingles. A mild non phosphate detergent is recommended. A good seal around these areas helps to keep your siding dry.

Wear eye protection and acid proof gloves. Dusty climates will require more frequent washing. Power wash every two to four years.