How to Water Proof Cedar Lumber
Cedar is wonderful lumber and can be used for a wide variety of projects. If you are making things for outdoor use, you may want preserve or waterproof the cedar. Not only does waterproofing cedar make it last longer, it also enhances the appearance of the wood. Cedar is naturally bug and rot resistant, but adding a protective treatment to the wood will increase its moisture resistance. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Hand held sander
- 150-200 grit sandpaper
- Brush
- Vacuum
- Water sealant
- Brush, roller or sprayer
- Clean rag
Instructions
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1
Clean the cedar to remove all dirt and and debris.
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2
Sand the surface of the cedar if it has been planed or if it has spent two weeks or more outdoors. Use a hand-held sander equipped with 150 to 200 grit sandpaper or fold the sandpaper around a small wood block and sand by hand.
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3
Brush or vacuum the sawdust from the wood so it is dust free. Sawdust will interfere with finishing the wood.
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4
Shake the waterproofing solution to ensure it is mixed well. If the project requires several cans, consider mixing them all together for a uniform finish.
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5
Apply the waterproofing material with a brush, roller or sprayer.
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6
Remove excess finish within 15 minutes of application, and redistribute it over dry areas. If you have no dry areas, simply wipe it off.
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7
Allow 48 hours for the wood to dry. It may require more time depending on the weather and humidity.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure the cedar dry before application of water treatment. If you have washed it, or it rain has fallen on the cedar, wait at least 48 hours before applying the sealant.
One coat is normally all that you need, but if you apply multiple coats, wait 12 hours between applications.
Apply on days when the temperature is above 50 degrees. Do not apply if rain is forecast within the next 24 hours.
Re-apply every one to two years depending on the outdoor elements.
Work in a well ventilated area.
