Cedar is a popular choice for exterior cladding, valued for its natural beauty, colour and distinctive grain.
Like all exterior timber, cedar is exposed to sun, rain, moisture and changing weather conditions, which can affect its appearance over time. Regular cleaning, inspection and maintenance coating can help protect the timber and maintain its appearance.
Dryden Woodcare products are designed to help protect and enhance exterior cedar in New Zealand conditions.
Cedar Cladding
Regular maintenance helps keep cedar cladding looking its best. Over time, exposure to the elements can contribute to:
Weathering
Discolouration
Silvering
Darkening
Moisture-related timber movement
Dirt, mould and surface contamination
Dryden WoodOil is a penetrating oil coating suitable for timber cladding, including cedar. It helps reduce water absorption and protect the timber from weathering, while maintaining its natural appearance.
For additional colour and UV protection, Dryden Colourtone+ can be added to Dryden WoodOil.
Choosing the Right Cedar Maintenance Products
Dryden offers a range of products for cleaning, protecting and maintaining cedar timber.
Depending on the condition of the timber and its existing coating, you may need:
WoodOil for protecting and maintaining compatible exterior timber
OilStain Exterior where a suitable exterior stain is required
Liquid Timber Cleaner for weathered, grey or stained timber requiring restoration before coating
Choosing the right product starts with understanding the condition of your timber and its existing coating.
Protecting Cedar from the Elements
Exterior cedar is continually exposed to moisture and UV. Dryden WoodOil penetrates into the timber and provides water repellency, helping reduce water absorption while enhancing the timber's natural grain.
For added colour and UV protection, Dryden Colourtone+ can be used with Dryden WoodOil.
What's Your Current Coating?
Before recoating cedar, it is important to understand what coating is already on the timber.
Dryden WoodOil may be suitable where the existing coating is a compatible penetrating or migrating oil. Timber previously coated with other coating types may require a different product.
If you are unsure of the existing coating, seek professional advice before recoating.
How to Identify the Existing Coating
The appearance of your cladding can provide an indication of the type of coating currently applied. For example, a shiny, plastic-like or flaking surface may indicate a film-forming coating.
Tests such as a methylated spirits test or dry-rub test may also help indicate the coating type. However, these methods are indicative only.
If you are unsure, consult a professional before selecting a new coating.
Choosing a Colour for Cedar
A semi-transparent coating allows the natural grain and character of cedar to remain visible while adding colour.
The final appearance can vary depending on the timber's natural colour, texture, grain, porosity and application.
When using multiple containers of tinted product, blend them together during application to help maintain a consistent colour.
Applying Dryden WoodOil
Dryden WoodOil can be applied to suitable cedar using the recommended application method for your project.
Different areas of a house can weather at different rates depending on their exposure. Inspect each elevation individually and maintain it when required, rather than assuming every side needs recoating at the same time.
Always follow the Dryden WoodOil application instructions and product data sheet.
Cedar Maintenance
Exterior cedar should be regularly inspected and cleaned to assess the condition of both the timber and its coating.
Maintenance requirements will vary depending on factors such as:
Exposure to sun and weather
Timber condition
Existing coating
Orientation of the surface
Recoat when required in accordance with the relevant product recommendations.
Common Questions About Cedar Maintenance
Cedar cladding should be regularly cleaned and inspected to keep it looking its best.
Maintenance requirements vary depending on the coating used, condition of the timber and exposure to the weather. Areas exposed to more sun and weather may require maintenance more frequently.
Recoat when required, following the recommendations for the product used.
Yes. Exterior cedar is exposed to weathering and requires ongoing inspection, cleaning and appropriate coating maintenance.
Regular maintenance helps protect the timber and maintain its appearance.
Because Cedar cladding is exposed to the elements, it’s recommended that you give it a soft wash every year and apply a coat of wood oil or 1-2 coats of stain every few years – but this depends on the product used and the timber’s condition.
The timing and number of coats depend on the timber’s natural variations and the weather in your area. Generally, more direct sun means more frequent maintenance is needed.
Regular checks and appropriate maintenance coats will not only maintain its weather-resistant properties but also keep it looking impeccable.
If you’re building with fresh cedar and started with Dryden WoodOil, it’s recommended to apply a “top-up” coat of WoodOil (maybe combined with Colourtone+) within 30-90 days of the first coat. After that, an annual soft wash and inspection are perfect, with standard maintenance every 12-36 months.
This process will maximise the oil’s protective qualities and ultimately extend the lifespan of your investment.
Exposure to weather and UV can cause cedar to grey over time.
Using an appropriate coating can help maintain the appearance of cedar and slow weathering. Dryden WoodOil can be combined with Colourtone+ where additional colour and UV protection is required.
TIMBER MAINTENANCE GUIDES
PINE MAINTENANCE
KWILA DECK MAINTENANCE
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