Cedar Siding Installation: A Complete Guide
Cedar siding is one of the most beautiful and durable exterior options available for homeowners who want to add a natural, rustic look to their homes. Known for its stunning aesthetic and long-lasting qualities, cedar siding is an ideal choice for both traditional and contemporary designs. Whether you are considering a new siding installation or replacing old, worn-out material, cedar siding can enhance your home’s curb appeal and increase its overall value.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about cedar siding installation, from the benefits of choosing cedar to the step-by-step process of installing it yourself, or with the help of a professional. We will also highlight some of the best cedar siding products available on the market.
Why Choose Cedar Siding?
Before diving into the installation process, it’s important to understand why cedar is such a popular choice for homeowners. Cedar siding offers numerous advantages that make it one of the best options available for those looking to improve their home’s exterior.
1. Natural Aesthetic and Timeless Beauty
One of the biggest reasons people choose cedar siding is its timeless beauty. Cedar has a rich, warm color and natural texture that can enhance the appearance of almost any home. Over time, the wood weathers to a beautiful silvery-gray patina, adding character and charm. The natural grain of cedar also adds depth and richness to your home’s exterior, making it stand out in the neighborhood.
2. Durability and Longevity
Cedar is known for its natural resistance to decay, rot, and insects. This makes it an ideal choice for homes located in areas with high humidity, or for properties that may be exposed to harsh weather conditions. Cedar wood is naturally resilient, and with proper maintenance, it can last for decades, providing long-term protection for your home.
3. Insulating Properties
Cedar siding provides an added layer of insulation to your home. Its natural fibers help regulate the temperature inside, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This can lead to lower energy bills over time, as your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.
4. Eco-Friendly
Cedar is a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for environmentally-conscious homeowners. Unlike synthetic siding materials, cedar wood is biodegradable, ensuring it won’t contribute to landfill waste when it reaches the end of its life.
5. Customizability and Versatility
Cedar siding is available in a wide variety of styles, including horizontal and vertical planks, shingles, and shakes. This versatility allows you to choose the design that best suits your home’s architectural style. Additionally, cedar siding can be stained or left untreated to preserve its natural color, giving you even more options for customization.
The Cedar Siding Installation Process
Installing cedar siding involves several steps. Depending on your experience and the tools you have available, you may choose to handle the installation yourself or hire a professional contractor to do the job. Either way, understanding the process will help ensure the job is done correctly and efficiently.
Step 1: Preparation
Before starting the installation, you need to prepare the surface of your home. This includes removing any old siding, cleaning the wall, and inspecting the underlying structure for any signs of damage. If the walls are in poor condition, they may need to be repaired before installing the cedar siding.
Insert image of home preparation before cedar siding installation
Step 2: Measuring and Ordering Materials
Accurate measurements are crucial to ensure you order the right amount of cedar siding material. You will need to measure the height and width of your walls to calculate the total square footage. Once you have your measurements, you can order your siding from a supplier. Keep in mind that cedar siding comes in different lengths and finishes, so be sure to choose the right product for your desired look.
Step 3: Installing the Starter Strip
The first step in the actual installation is to attach a starter strip to the base of the wall. This strip will serve as a guide for the first row of siding. It’s important to make sure this strip is level, as it will affect the overall alignment of the rest of the siding.
Step 4: Installing the Siding Panels
Next, you will begin installing the cedar siding panels, starting from the bottom of the wall. Each panel should overlap the one below it to create a tight seal. Cedar siding often comes with interlocking panels, which help prevent water from seeping behind the siding.
Be sure to leave a small gap at the top and sides of the panels to allow for expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
Step 5: Installing Trim and Finishing Touches
Once the siding panels are in place, you will need to install trim pieces around windows, doors, and corners to give the siding a clean and finished look. Caulking and weatherproofing are essential to prevent moisture from getting behind the panels.
Step 6: Final Inspection
After the installation is complete, do a thorough inspection of the siding. Check for any gaps, loose panels, or areas that may need additional caulking or sealing.
Best Cedar Siding Products
When selecting cedar siding, it’s important to choose high-quality materials that will stand the test of time. Below are some of the best cedar siding products available on the market.
1. Timberwolf Western Red Cedar Siding
Timberwolf Western Red Cedar Siding is a premium option known for its stunning appearance and durability. It’s available in both smooth and textured finishes and is perfect for homeowners who want a natural look with minimal maintenance.
- Pros:
- Long-lasting and resistant to rot
- Beautiful, rich color and texture
- Available in different styles and finishes
- Cons:
- Higher initial cost compared to other materials
- Requires periodic maintenance to maintain its appearance
- Price:
- $5 to $8 per square foot
Timberwolf Western Red Cedar Siding
2. CedarMAX Vinyl Siding with Cedar Look
CedarMAX offers a vinyl siding product that mimics the look of real cedar wood but with the durability and low-maintenance benefits of vinyl. This is an excellent option for homeowners who love the look of cedar but want the ease of vinyl siding.
- Pros:
- Resists fading, cracking, and warping
- Low-maintenance and easy to clean
- Energy-efficient options available
- Cons:
- Doesn’t offer the same natural appeal as real cedar
- Limited customization compared to wood cedar
- Price:
- $3 to $6 per square foot
CedarMAX Vinyl Siding with Cedar Look
3. Knotty Pine Cedar Shingles
If you’re looking for a more rustic or traditional look, Knotty Pine Cedar Shingles are a perfect option. These shingles offer a charming and weathered aesthetic while providing the durability of cedar.
- Pros:
- Beautiful, textured appearance
- Great for traditional or rustic home styles
- Environmentally friendly and sustainable
- Cons:
- Higher maintenance than other options
- More expensive installation costs due to custom cutting and fitting
- Price:
- $7 to $12 per square foot
Where to Buy Cedar Siding and How to Purchase
You can purchase cedar siding from several places, including:
- Local Hardware Stores: Major retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer cedar siding options. Many stores allow you to browse online before purchasing.
- Siding Suppliers: Specialized siding suppliers can offer a wider selection of cedar products and help you choose the right material for your project.
- Direct from Manufacturers: Some manufacturers, like Timberwolf and CedarMAX, sell directly to consumers, offering bulk discounts or special promotions.
When buying, make sure to compare prices from different suppliers and inquire about shipping costs, installation fees, and return policies.
Conclusion
Cedar siding is an exceptional choice for homeowners looking to enhance the beauty, durability, and energy efficiency of their homes. While it requires proper care and maintenance, the benefits of cedar siding, including its natural appeal and long lifespan, make it a worthwhile investment.
FAQ
1. How often should cedar siding be treated?
Cedar siding should be treated with a protective finish every 3 to 5 years to preserve its natural beauty and protect it from the elements.
2. Can I install cedar siding myself?
While it is possible to install cedar siding yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional if you lack experience with siding installation. Proper installation is crucial to ensure long-lasting performance.
3. How much does cedar siding installation cost?
Cedar siding installation typically costs between $5 to $12 per square foot, depending on the type of cedar and the complexity of the installation.