Natural wood siding, such as Redwood, is a common choice because of its attractive red-brown color, natural appearance and long-lasting character. Redwood requires periodic maintenance to keep it looking new, however. A number of finishes are used to preserve both the surface appearance as well as the structural integrity of the wood.
Redwood offers many advantages as a siding material. The natural reddish color fits well into wooded environments and gradually weathers to a gray color. At any stage in the aging process, it is possible to preserve the color you like by applying a sealer. With regular maintenance redwood siding can last up to 30 years!
However, constant exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun can deteriorate redwood siding, drying out the wood and making it vulnerable to environmental damage. Mildew can often grow on the wood surfaces, leaving dark discolorations. This mildew growth can be removed with household chlorine bleach or oxalic acid, available at hardware stores. Iron nails can also rust and discolor the wood siding. Use aluminum, stainless steel, or good-quality hot-dipped galvanized nails.
Redwood offers many advantages as a siding material. The natural reddish color fits well into wooded environments and gradually weathers to a gray color. At any stage in the aging process, it is possible to preserve the color you like by applying a sealer. With regular maintenance redwood siding can last up to 30 years!
However, constant exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun can deteriorate redwood siding, drying out the wood and making it vulnerable to environmental damage. Mildew can often grow on the wood surfaces, leaving dark discolorations. This mildew growth can be removed with household chlorine bleach or oxalic acid, available at hardware stores. Iron nails can also rust and discolor the wood siding. Use aluminum, stainless steel, or good-quality hot-dipped galvanized nails.
Regular cleaning of the surface of the redwood with water will remove surface dirt and stains from tree sap. Pressure washing is often used on siding, but should be done carefully to avoid pitting the wood and dislodging the siding from its position. Hire a pressure-washing company experienced in working with wood siding materials like Oakland Shingle Siding Preservation. If you attempt to clean the siding yourself, use a low pressure setting on the sprayer. Painting wood siding offers a good protective coating for the redwood siding and helps to eliminate mildew growth. Oil-based are recommended to redwood siding as these protect the wood better than latex paints, which form a thicker coating over the wood. Organic matter like branches and leaves that lie on cedar for a long time can grow mold and mildew, which will in turn seep in the cedar and cause its quality to deteriorate. Clear the shingles approximately every 2 weeks, and remember to remove any debris after rainstorms. This is extremely important for longevity.
