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 manufacturer's instructions. Then, use a paint scraper to gently remove any signs of the original stain.

Using a fine-grit sandpaper, rub the siding surface, particularly focusing on any areas that still have stain. Next, look for signs of chips or cracks in the wood. Fill the damaged areas with epoxy filler, let dry completely, and sand the surface again.

Apply a coat of paint preservative with the use of a paintbrush and let it dry thoroughly. Use caulk on any exposed nails in the siding as well as in the larger cracks you can find. When the caulk dries up, paint the siding with a primer, and then a layer of siding paint. Make sure the preceding coat has already completely dried before you apply more coats