The texture, grain, fragrant scent… cedar siding is a perennial favorite when it comes to wood siding. Adding that touch of warmth and natural beauty can really provide a home with a ton of visual appeal. Whether you’re deciding between completely different types of siding options, or you just want to learn more about cedar, we’re here to help!
In this article, CLAD Siding will go over the specific reasons why cedar has captured the hearts of so many happy folks (keeps doing so), as well as the most common problems that come with cedar wood siding.
Common Issues with Cedar Siding
Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room first. Like any other type of wood or siding option, there is always a list of pros and cons. Whether you’re deciding between different wood options or completely different types of siding, it pays to know what to expect. The key is to understand what you’re dealing potentially with and if that works for your needs. That being said, here are the most common problems with cedar siding.
Material Cost
Is cedar siding expensive? Simply put, yes. The bright side is that installation is not so demanding, which lowers the cost a bit. However, when you factor in routine maintenance expenses – this mainly consists of having to repaint or restain your cedar siding every few years – the savings enjoyed during installation wash away. Cedar is beautiful, but it’s not cheap.
More Maintenance
In general, wood siding requires proper maintenance in order to last longer. This type of siding is susceptible to moisture and insect infestation. Cedar, in particular, has a reputation for chipping, peeling, and fading. What that means is you’ll need to repaint – it also requires priming – or restain every few years. This can require a lot of time, effort, and money. And that doesn’t take into account having to replace damaged panels.
Durability Problems
Though it’s not the most problematic type of wood siding – pine is actually less durable – cedar cladding still has its issues. For instance, if it’s installed too close to the ground, cedar can suck up moisture. This leads to rotting issues. The same problem can also occur when placed close to doors and windows. If paint or stain is not maintained, it can come off and result in major peeling, warping, and rotting of the wood.
Shorter Lifespan
When installing new siding, you want to know that it will stand the test of time. How long does cedar wood siding last? Though cedar can last for decades with proper maintenance, many panels can require replacement within only 10 or 15 years. Of course, considering the cost of cedar cladding, this can be quite an expensive undertaking. If you’re looking for siding that will definitely last longer than this, you might need to look at some other options.
Environmental Issues
Though it is a natural product, cedar can present problems with respect to sustainability and eco-friendliness. The majority of the time, it’s sourced via an ethical process, but that’s not always the case. The wood also has a shorter lifespan (as addressed above), which results in more frequent replacement. On top of that, cedar requires finishing and reapplication of paint or stain. This leads to the release of harmful chemicals into the atmosphere.
Limited Options
Cedar is a highly attractive and popular siding choice. But you might not be especially thrilled with the lack of options compared to other woods. Depending on the shape and architectural elements of your home, you might want to go with a panel that either isn’t readily available or virtually impossible to source. The two most common types of cedar cladding are shingles and horizontal laps, so if you want something else, you might be in for a letdown.
Reasons Why Cedar Siding is So Popular
Is cedar good for siding? Yes! Cedar has a plethora of super attractive characteristics that make it an outstanding choice for wood siding. Below, you’ll find the top 5 reasons why cedar siding is one of the most coveted wood sidings.
Beauty
Above anything else, cedar offers stunning looks! Sought after for its natural texture and grain, the wood can be either stained or painted. This offers a custom touch to your property, while still retaining the rich grain quality that shines through it. From white hues to rich reds and browns, cedar exudes an undeniable character. On top of that, cedar offers that quintessential fragrant scent, one that is actually desired more by some than its actual aesthetic appeal!
Efficient Insulation
A lot of siding options provide little to virtually no insulation. Cedar, however, is an exception. Due to its light weight and density qualities, the wood siding actually offers a nice amount of heat retention. It does this by trapping air and not allowing it to seep out from the home. Along with heat efficiency, cedar siding also acts as a decent sound insulator. So if you decide to go with this fantastic cladding, you get the best of both worlds!
Durability
Yes, this was mentioned in the cons section. But hear us out. Cedar siding, with proper maintenance, can last for many decades. And unlike other kinds of wood, it offers a level of longevity and hardiness that (when considered with its aesthetic appeal) is more than reasonable. No, it’s not the most durable of wood siding, but it offers a great balance of long-lasting use and visual curbside appeal that will make any home shine!
Versatility
Cedar siding typically comes in two types – shingles and laps – but it still offers a bunch of flexibility. When it comes to pairing with a particular architectural design, the wood works well with everything from seaside rustic to modern. Plus, as previously mentioned, cedar allows for myriad color options via stain and paint. Whatever your type of property, visual tastes, or scope of project, cedar siding can be an amazing addition to your home!
Renewability
Unlike engineered siding materials – this includes vinyl, which requires the use of fossil fuels – cedar is a naturally grown and renewable option. Of course, you have to factor in the use of stain or paint, but the siding itself is relatively eco-friendly. Just make sure that you’re sourcing it from a company that follows environmental protocols. When it’s responsibly sourced and replenished, cedar can offer both sustainability and biodegradability benefits.
That concludes our rundown of cedar siding! Beautiful, benefit-filled, and fragrant, this wood has captured the hearts of many. With a nice selection of panels, a standard house can be transformed into a warm and inviting home. Of course, it’s not an absolutely “perfect” option. There are plenty of disadvantages, as there are with other materials. But if the scale tips more towards the end of making it your next siding choice, then you’ll be pleased with years of gorgeous cladding. We hope this article has helped you get closer to making a great pick!
***
Need a pro? From residential to commercial, CLAD Siding connects you with affordable, fully licensed wood siding contractors right in your area! Click here, learn more, and request your comprehensive quote today!
