Cedar Siding

Cedar siding is a popular exterior finish, especially in the Pacific Northwest, where cedar is plentiful. Resistant to warping, rot, and insect damage, cedar siding is available in several grades, types, and finishes.

Cedar offers many benefits when compared with other woods used for exterior applications.

Cedar seldom warps, splits, or cups. It is easy to work with, and less likely to split or check when compared to other woods, and it also has a low density and is less prone to shrinkage.

The oil in cedar resists rot, making it an excellent choice for outdoor applications such as siding. Some homeowners use cedar siding in the interior of their spa or when they install a jacuzzi tub because it resists humidity. It doesn't require extra preservatives to prevent rot unless the cedar touches the ground.

Natural oils in cedar work to repel insects. Older wood is more potent than newly formed cedar, making the heartwood the most desirable part for exterior use. For this reason, cedar siding made primarily of heartwood fetches a premium price.

Cedar siding, like all wood, is rated by appearance and quality. This rating system is called grading. Grade A lumber is more expensive than lower grades, but it has a more uniform appearance. Some homeowners prefer lower grades of lumber because of its rustic appeal. In addition to having specific grades of cedar, siding is further divided into clear and knotty varieties.

Clear cedar siding has the most uniform appearance, with almost no knots or imperfections. For exterior applications, clear siding ranges from top grade heartwood to B grade wood. Grade A and top grade heartwood siding can only use pieces of wood that have an excellent appearance. Even B grade clear siding will have very few knots or other imperfections.

Cedar often attracts homeowners who are seeking a rustic appearance. Some cedar manufacturers use different terminology to grade cedar. Instead of issuing letter grades, the wood is divided into select and quality grades. Select knotty siding is the most desirable: the knots are small and tight within the wood. Quality knotty cedar is also fine for exterior use, but it may have larger knots in the wood.

Cedar siding is available in many exterior forms, ranging from the traditional bevel siding, to the more uncommon board and batten. Which type you choose will depend on the appearance you wish to create as well as any special structural considerations specific to your home.

Beveled siding is the most common type of cedar siding available today. It is created by splitting a piece of lumber into two pieces with a narrow and wide side, making a wedge shape. The pieces are then installed so they overlap slightly, encouraging water to shed from the exterior surface.

Tongue and groove siding has joints on each side which fit together when installed. The width of the individual pieces and type of joint being used can cause the appearance of this type of siding to vary widely. Tongue and groove siding in clear grades is often found on the exterior of more contemporary homes.

Channel siding patterns vary greatly, from traditional lap siding to profiles that mimic logs. It can be installed horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, and is available in all grades. Channel siding can be found in both seasoned and green varieties.

Board and batten consists of wide boards with the joints covered by narrower pieces of cedar trim. It is always installed vertically, and can be made to fit any dimension or desired proportion.

Choosing cedar siding for an exterior home renovation can be costly, so be sure to do your research before committing to a specific grade and type of wood. It is best to see the wood in person so you can weigh the differences in grade and cost before placing an order. Keep in mind you will also need an excellent contractor who will be comfortable working with the wood you have chosen. An experienced contractor should also be able to make recommendations that fit with your budget and exterior. For this reason, consider involving the contractor before making any materials purchase.

• Apron Sinks
• Interior Painting Techniques
• Front Entry Porch Pictures

• Glass Tile Backsplash Ideas
• How to Install a Bathtub
• Build a Kitchen Banquette
• Sliding Wood Closet Doors
• Wood Plank Look Ceramic Tile

• Attic Insulation Dangers
• Basement Wall Systems
• Wood Paneling
• Beadboard Paneling
• Category:Misc. Home Improvement