Differentiating between Cedar Shingles and Shakes

Western Red Cedar is the most widely used wood in America. It's used in pencils, poles, fences, cabinets, interior finish, and cooperage. However, it's most popular use is for roof shingles and shakes. Due to its durability, cut, and many color varieties, cedar wood is a highly preferred roofing material option. Both cedar shingles and shakes are widely used on commercial and residential structures alike. Cedar shingles Cedar shingles generally come in uniform thickness, appearance, and width (except for custom orders). They come in two...

Basic Facts About Staining Your Cedar Siding

Cedar siding needs to be stained to protect and preserve the wood and enhance its natural beauty. Stains for cedar siding range from deep stains that protect the material from harmful UV rays, to clear coats that showcase its natural color. Here are some details you need to know if you're having your cedar siding stained. Additional protection Staining helps the wood become more resistant to weather, insects, and other conditions. Keeping moisture to a minimum is the key to preserving wood products, and stains do a great job in this regard....

How to Maintain and Restore Cedar Siding

The use of cedar siding in your home exterior is an excellent way to protect it from the elements since the material is naturally durable and can withstand heavy storms. However, despite its durability, cedar is bound to fade, making your home look old and worn. Here are some helpful tips to restore it to its original state. First, cover the areas below the part where you plan to restore by placing tarps and dropcloths over plants, glass and other fixtures. Apply an even coating of paint stripper to your cedar siding and leave it on as per...

Treatments for Prolonging Cedar Shake Life

For hundreds of years, cedar has been one of the most used types of wooden roofing, thanks to the material's inherent durability and elegance. Today, there are many wood roofing treatments that you can apply to even further this durability, as well as reinforce its resistance to rot and weather damage. You can find many commercial chemical products in your local store that can be used to treat your cedar shake roof against fungus that can cause decay. For extra safety, be sure that the chemical that you use is specifically for cedar shake,...