Which Exterior Paint Is Best For Cedar Siding?

When selecting primer and paint for cedar, it is essential to use high-quality materials. A heavy, stain-blocking primer should be used on raw cedar, followed by at least two coats of premium 100 acrylic-latex exterior paint. Avoid using oil-based paints with cedar as they can cause damage and have poor adhesion properties. Acrylic paint is the best choice for cedar siding as it offers protection and a fresh look to trim, siding, decks, and more.

For cedar siding, an alkyd-oil primer is recommended, but it should not be used as a topcoat. Instead, opt for a high-quality acrylic-latex paint for exterior applications. Exterior Western Red Cedar surfaces only need to be refinished when the old coating has worn thin and no longer provides wood protection. Home Shield Coating® is ideal for Cedar Siding, Hardie Board, Aluminum Siding, Brick, and Stucco and is available in any color.

A professional painter can help choose the right kind of acrylic-latex paint based on the condition of your siding, ensuring up to 10 years of protection. The type of finish selected depends on style and the type of finish being chosen. Alkyd-oil primers are recommended, but high-quality latex primers can be used as long as they contain stain blockers.

In conclusion, choosing high-quality materials for cedar primer and paint is crucial for its longevity and appearance. Choose a heavy, stain-blocking primer on raw cedar and apply at least two coats of premium 100 acrylic-latex exterior paint. Avoid using oil-based paints with cedar, as they can change slightly with weather and weather conditions.

Is painting cedar siding a good idea?

Cedar siding should be painted or stained to protect it from the elements. The choice depends on your familiarity with each technique and desired final look. Paint and stain offer years of protection, but they differ in application and results. Paint is a pigment-based, opaque coating that forms a layer over shingles, concealing old wood and allowing grain to show through. It sits on the surface of shingles, causing it to peel and need to be scraped off and reapplied, which can be costly.

How do you paint weathered cedar siding?

To paint cedar siding, follow these four steps: pressure wash the siding, scrape off the peeling paint, prime the bare wood with an oil-based primer, and paint the siding with an all-in-one exterior paint and primer. For a pristine finish, sand the siding after scraping to level out the paint ridges. If pressure washing is too much, sand the frayed wood or apply an exterior spackling compound like DAP Platinum Patch, let it dry, and sand it smooth. While this method turned out beautifully on a few pieces, it may not be suitable for all cedar siding. The author may earn a small commission if you click on the link and/or purchase from that site.

What is the best paint for exterior cedar?

To protect cedar siding, use exterior acrylic-latex paint and avoid oil-based paint. Choose a color that suits your design preferences and avoid using a two-for-one primer. If cedar siding is new, skip this step. However, installed cedar siding may require cleaning before painting. Check for oil, dirt, or mildew staining and wash or rinse it down. If oil stains are deep or the board is old, replace the siding before proceeding. If the siding is too old or oil-based, it may be necessary to replace the piece of siding. If the siding is new and not yet installed, skip this step.

What type of paint is best for cedar siding?

Cedar siding is susceptible to the effects of weather and other external factors. Therefore, it is essential to protect it through the application of a high-quality paint coating. A comprehensive primer coat and 100% acrylic latex paint can safeguard the wood from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation and preserve its natural appearance. Five Star Painting provides expert exterior painting services to assist clients in selecting the optimal paint and ensuring its proper application, thereby preserving the beauty of the siding for years to come.

Why does paint peel off cedar siding?

Paint peeling from siding boards can be caused by moisture from the interior working its way to the exterior, pushing paint off the wood. This can be seen in steamy bathrooms with lack of ventilation, where the shape of the bathroom can be outlined on the exterior wall. Paint typically begins to peel first in areas that are most prone to staying wet, such as the lower edges of boards and ends of boards.

However, peeling paint that’s just a few years old also indicates poor preparation, as the new paint likely didn’t stick well to those areas due to older paint, worn-out paint, or unclean and dry lower edges.

To fix the issue, fix any underlying problems, such as adding a fan vented to the outdoors, channeling gutter water away from the house, or trimming or removing shrubs and vines close to the wall. This will help prevent the peeling and ensure the paint remains applied properly.

What are the best exterior paints for cedar siding?

To paint cedar siding, use 100 acrylic-latex paint, a thick, weather-resistant coating, to cover the wood and fill in any imperfections. A professional painter can choose the right type based on the siding’s condition, ensuring up to 10 years of service. Apply the paint using a brush, sprayer, or roller, with a hand brush for the thickest coat. However, this process is time-consuming. If applying the paint yourself, backroll it while it’s still wet to get the paint deep into the porous wood.

If your cedar siding is new, paint within two weeks of installation, as weathered cedar may not hold onto the coating as well. Hiring a professional is recommended for older cedar siding, as they can remove mold, dirt, and loose wood fibers.

Should you brush or spray cedar siding?

Brushing and rolling is a traditional method of exterior painting that involves applying two coats of paint to meet manufacturer specifications. This method is particularly beneficial for certain siding surfaces like cedar shakes or T-111, as it allows for thorough penetration of the paint, providing protection and durability. It also ensures control, providing an even coat and desired thickness. This method is suitable for rough surfaces like cedar shakes or T-111, where precision is crucial.

Properly applied, it can extend the paint job’s life and enhance the appearance of the home. However, for homes with smooth, non-porous hardy plank construction, back brushing or rolling may not be necessary. However, eaves, corner boards, and trim typically require two coats with back-brushing or rolling for an even, appealing paint application.

Do I need to prime cedar siding before painting?

Cedar siding is a durable and attractive material due to its rich oils and tannins, which give it its appearance and durability. To prevent stains and tannins from bleeding onto the topcoat, it is essential to prime the siding with an oil-based stain-blocking primer before top-coating with exterior paint. This primer ensures proper sealing of tannins, oils, and mill glaze on the siding. It is not recommended to use latex or water-based primers.

To paint old cedar siding, it should be cleaned first by pressure washing and allowed to dry before applying a solid stain. Alternatively, it can be primed and painted with the best exterior paint available, allowing the wood’s texture to show. However, primed siding may lose the natural wood grain look.

Does cedar need to be sealed for outdoor use?

Sealing cedar wood is of paramount importance for the protection of furniture against the damaging effects of weather, including the absorption of moisture and the prevention of mold growth. This process also serves to extend the longevity of the furniture. Nevertheless, it is imperative to refrain from utilizing teak or linseed oil on exterior cedar furnishings, as these oils have the potential to impair the wood’s inherent characteristics.

How long will paint last on cedar siding?

Painted cedar siding can last 12-15 years if done correctly. To ensure longevity, use high-quality primers and finishes with mold and mildew inhibitors, an alkyd-oil-based primer, a darker colored paint, and high-elasticity paint. Apply two coats and wait for the cedar’s moisture content to stabilize before applying any coatings. Elite Home Exteriors offers siding installation services, with their team of professionals performing inspections, recommending the best approach, and completing the installation promptly.

To optimize the longevity of cedarwood siding, it is essential to stay on top of maintenance, such as cleaning and sealing, to keep it in its best condition. Elite Home Exteriors can help with installation and maintenance.