How to Take Care of Cedar Siding
Cedar siding can fall victim to the same culprit that ruins other types of wood siding: moisture. Water can find the smallest cracks and crevices to seep into, which can cause mold and warp and damage the wood.
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Things You'll Need
- Pressure washer
- 1/2 cup bleach
- 2 tbsp. trisodium phosphate (TSP)
- 1 gal. water
- Soft-bristled brush
- Distilled white vinegar
Instructions
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Routinely inspect the cedar siding's flashing and caulking, making sure moisture doesn't have a way to get in.
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Use a pressure washer to clean your cedar siding. Use the washer on its lowest setting and make sure you don't spray water behind the panels or shingles.
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If you're not comfortable introducing that much water to your cedar siding, you can make a homemade solvent to clean it. Mix the bleach, TSP and water and scrub the solvent into the cedar siding using a soft-bristled brush.
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If your cedar siding has mold or mildew, mix about 2 cups of vinegar into 1 gal. of water and scrub the area clean. Vinegar easily removes mold and mildew, and it will make your siding look new again.
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If you live in a damp climate, you'll have to be extra vigilant when it comes to caring for your cedar siding. It will require periodic maintenance, such as treating and repainting, along with regular cleanings.
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Tips & Warnings
To avoid cedar rot, keep your home's indoor humidity at about 40 percent. Install heating wires as a preventative measure. They will melt ice and keep water from getting under your roof shingles.
