The upside is that solid color stains will block most damaging ultraviolet light.
Caulking prior to staining cedar siding.
In my opinion caulking between the seams in any lapped siding either horizontal or vertical is not good practice but not just because of any potential vapor barrier effect.
The layering of siding panels acts as a natural waterproofing that will allow precipitation to fall off naturally so caulking would stop the normal movement and function of your panels.
Pressure washing can damage cedar so if possible wash by hand.
What you get is a very uniform opaque color.
Think of a wood home as a living thing.
7 tips painting or staining cedar wood siding walking into a paint store can be overwhelming trying to decide which paint or stain coating you wish to provide your exterior cedar wood and siding as there are many varieties.
Find siding contractors near you.
After you have washed it wait for it to dry before applying any stain to the cedar.
The non milled wood surface creates a rustic appearance but it can present some challenges when it comes to finishing.
Finally you should refrain from caulking the bottoms of horizontal siding sheets or the edges of the tongue and groove panels.
While paint does tend to somewhat glue these pieces together caulking them is never advised and can cause permanent damage.
Wash part of a wall and allow it to dry thoroughly before applying the sealant.
The following outline is intended to prepare you before buying any such products knowing exactly which type fits your final outcome.
You have two choices go to sherwin williams or your local paint store and buy cedar colored caulk go for it or stain let dry a couple of days caulk with a clear caulking not silicone your.
Prepare your cedar siding by washing it with soapy water to remove any dirt or dust if any has accumulated.
The siding expands and contracts with temperature and humidity.
Staining cedar with a solid color stain.
How to seal cedar siding.
Because it tends not to be as absorbent as a more traditional milled siding stains can have trouble penetrating.
One of the most thorough methods when staining is to use a thick natural bristle brush.
Solid color stains have solid particles but not nearly as many as paint.
It needs to move and breathe.
Thus solid color stains let some of the cedar s grain show through but none of the color.
Caulking them is a mistake and the caulking is likely to fail prematurely.
Use a thick brush when staining.
