Caulking Stained Cedar Siding
Other technical resources can be found elsewhere on their website.
Caulking stained cedar siding. While cedar stands up to the elements fairly well on its own putting a seal or a coat of paint on it can enhance the color and protect the wood from inclement weather. Below is a link to their installation guide. The answer depends on the manufacturer and installation method used when the siding was first installed. Stained cedar siding has a tendency to discolor over time.
The black coloring or darkening of the cedar siding is caused by mold growth. The most common are 3 4 inch or 1 1 4 inches thick. Recommendations for caulks are located on page 10. Thickness of the corner board will depend on the thickness of the siding.
Generally we do not recommend caulking butt joints on cedar siding. Me i would powerwash the house let dry overnight caulk the seams and around the edges with cedar colored caulk then stain. Left unstained cedar s red hue will fade to gray within about a year. Because the staing will tint the caulk slightly.
If i am installing a prefinished product which i do mostly i use a color osi match caulk. Don t use a filler like wood filler as it will not move with the cedar siding. Natural siding boards are designed to expand and contract with the elements and we do not want any adhesive to prevent their natural movement. If i install a non finished product i usually go with a 3m paintable caulk.
Corner boards are applied to the sheathing with siding fitting tightly against the narrow edge of the boards allowing for expansion and an adequate caulking bead. I m not a painter but i do install cedar siding and i always caulk all the joints. Width is a matter of taste and proper proportion. The western red cedar lumber association publishes a number of downloadable booklets concerning the design installation and finishing of cedar siding.
How to clean stained cedar siding. Oil stains that are. Giving your cedar siding a nice tint will add beauty durability and value to your home.