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Exterior stains are an essential part of maintaining the beauty and durability of cedar siding. They protect the siding from the elements and provide a rich, beautiful color that lasts for years. With so many options available, it can be difficult to determine which exterior stain is the best for your cedar siding. In this article, we’ll review the top 7 best exterior stains for cedar siding, as well as provide a buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
What Is an Exterior Stain?
Exterior stains are products that are specifically designed to protect the exterior of your home from the elements. They are formulated to resist moisture, mildew, and UV rays, which can cause the siding to fade, rot, and crack over time. Exterior stains come in a variety of colors and finishes, including semi-transparent, semi-solid, and solid colors. The type of stain you choose will depend on the look you’re trying to achieve and the level of protection you need for your siding.
What Is Resin?
Resin is a key ingredient in exterior stains that provides the protective qualities necessary to keep your siding looking great for years to come. There are two types of resin used in exterior stains: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based stains are made with natural oils, such as linseed or tung oil, that penetrate the wood and provide a long-lasting, water-resistant finish. Water-based stains are made with synthetic resins that provide a more environmentally friendly option.
Importance Of Exterior Stain
- It protects against rot, mold and mildew.
- It holds the color of your siding for a long period of time.
- Provides UV protection from sunlight.
- Homeowners can choose from a variety of colors, which makes it possible to match their home’s color.
- It protects the wood from moisture and ultraviolet rays. This will prevent aging as well as damage caused by insects or fungus.
Cedar Siding Preparation
1. Power Wash
Over time, siding can become dingy and stained. To ensure your new stain will adhere properly and look its best, start with a power washing. You’ll want to remove any mildew, dirt, or other debris that may be on the surface. A power washer can also help to rough up the surface of the wood, giving the stain something to grip onto. Just be careful not to power wash too aggressively, or you could end up damaging the wood.
2. Let Dry
After power washing, it’s important to let your siding dry completely before moving on to staining. If the wood is even slightly damp, it could affect how well the stain adheres. Depending on the weather and humidity levels, it may take a day or two for your siding to completely dry.
3. Sanding
Once your siding is dry, you’ll want to give it a light sanding. This will help to create an even surface for the stain to adhere to. Be sure to use a product like a DeWalt orbital sander for best results. It’s also important to use the proper sandpaper grit. For cedar siding, we recommend using 120-grit sandpaper to ensure even coverage.
4. Spot Prime Wood Knots
Products like KILZ 2 All-Purpose Primer, Interior/Exterior, 1 Gallon can be used to spot prime any wood knots. This will help to prevent the knots from bleeding through your final coat of stain. The last thing you want is for your beautiful cedar siding to be marred by unsightly wood knots.
5. Spray the Stain
Airless sprayers like the Graco Magnum ProX17 can be used to apply the stain evenly. When using an airless sprayer, it’s important to back-brush the stain after spraying. This will help to ensure even coverage and prevent any drips or runs.
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Top 6 Best Exterior Stain for Cedar
1. General Finishes Exterior 450 Water Based Wood Stain, 1 Quart, Cedar
This is one of the best exterior stains for cedar siding because it contains a 100% acrylic resin formula that resists mildew, mold and moisture while providing protection from ultraviolet rays. It will retain its color longer than other types of paint or stain due to its water-based formulation. This also means you can use it on all exterior surfaces, including wood, metal and masonry.
It is available in a variety of colors that will match your home’s color scheme. Another benefit to this stain is how easy it is to apply with no need for primer or top coat application. It only requires one coat and dries within an hour so you can recoat it quickly.
Pros
- It is available in a variety of colors
- Water-based stain that cleans up easily with soap and water
- Dries quickly
- It’s durable
- UV Protection
Cons
- Requires several coats for complete coverage
- It is expensive compared to other brands of stain
- Some people also complain that this exterior stain doesn’t last as long as they would like
2. Olympic Stain Maximum Wood Stain and Sealer, Semi-Transparent Stain,1 Gal, Redwood
- Weather-ready application allows you to clean and stain on the same day in temperatures down to 35 degrees fahrenheight, deck is ready for rain in 8 hours
- Durable formula features advanced SunBlock UV defense and enhanced water proofing protection
- Exclusive Scuff Guard technology and cleans easily with soap and water, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals
- Durable wood stain and sealant protects and beautifies in one step
- Recommended for use on exterior wood decks, fences, siding, railings, outdoor furniture and other wood surfaces.
Product Description
This product contains a 100% acrylic resin formula that protects wood against various conditions such as water damage, insects, fungus rot or mildew. It will protect your home’s exterior from UV rays to prevent color fade due to constant exposure of sunlight over time.
It’s water-based so it will clean up easily with soap and water. It also contains no VOCs or chemical solvents, which means it is environmentally safe for your home as well as the environment around you. This stain can be used on all exterior surfaces including wood decks, vinyl fences, concrete patios and masonry.
Pros
- Available in a variety of colors
- Protects wood against water damage that will cause warp or crack the material
- UV resistant to prevent color fade
- It is durable and long-lasting
- Its 100% acrylic resin formula
Cons
- Requires several coats for complete coverage
- It is expensive compared to other brands of stain
3. DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain, Cedar Tone 1 Gallon
- Water-Based Semi-Transparent Wood Stain – This water-based deck stain allows the wood grain to show through with a beautiful semi-transparent, natural matte finish. It's great for staining wood decks, fences, siding, playsets, outdoor patio furniture, and more.
- Fortified With Zinc Nano-Particle Technology – It’s like sunscreen for your wood. Tiny zinc particles dispersed throughout the stain reflect damaging UV rays, preventing premature graying and color loss.
- Durable Quality That Lasts – DEFY Extreme wood stains are made with the highest quality resins available that have better resistance to fading and darkening.
- Easy to Maintain - DEFY is easy to apply and maintain by applying a single maintenance coat of DEFY Extreme Wood Stain when the wood starts to show signs of wear.
- 250 VOC Compliant - Water based and VOC compliant everywhere except California.
This water-based stain contains a 100% acrylic resin formula that resists insects, fungus rot or mildew for durability. It will also protect your home’s exterior from exposure to ultraviolet rays with its UV resistant properties while retaining the color of the wood longer than other types of paint or stains. It can be used on all exterior surfaces including vinyl fences, concrete patios, decks and masonry.
This stain also contains no VOCs or chemical solvents so it is environmentally friendly for your home as well as the environment around you. It cleans up with soap and water to remove any residue left behind after use. It only requires one coat unless you are trying to achieve a darker color, in which case it will require two or more coats.
Pros
- Available in a variety of colors
- Water-based that is environmentally safe
- One coat unless you want darker colors in which case it requires two or more coats
- Requires little effort to apply
Cons
- Less durable than other brands of stain
- It doesn’t come in larger quantities
4. Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood
- Requires no primer. Ready Seal is darkest when first applied. It reaches its true color in approximately 14 days. Do not apply Ready Seal over painted or newly stained surfaces. Sealed surfaces inhibit penetration.
- May be applied using sprayer, roller or brush onto the woods surface.
- Requires no back brushing and will nerver leave runs, laps, or streaks.
- Requires no wet-line application, the product will blend itself and can be applied in any temperature range for proper application.
- Requires no diluting or thinning prior to spray applications.
Product Description
It’s eco-friendly and non-toxic so you can use it where ever your heart desires without the worry of harsh chemicals leaching into the soil. It can be used on both indoor and outdoor hardwood floors or cabinets that are in good condition without any chipping of peeling layers of paint or varnish. This stain is low odor so you can use it indoors without the worry of a strong chemical scent disrupting your home’s interior or having fumes escape through an open window and enter into another room.
Pros
- It’s eco-friendly
- Non-toxic so you can use it where ever your heart desires
- Easy cleanup
- It can be used to protect wood against harsh weathering, rot, mildew and insects
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- Not as durable
- Requires multiple coats to be thicker
5. Cabot 140.0016316.007 Semi-Transparent Deck & Siding Low VOC Exterior Stain, Gallon, New Cedar
- OIL-BASED WOOD STAIN - Cabot Semi-Transparent Stain + Wood Sealer is formulated to provide long lasting beauty and wood protection. The wood sealant highlights the grain of your wood with protective color.
- SUPERIOR PROTECTION – Also a wood protector, the semi-transparent finish provides powerful resistance to moisture and UV damage. Our one-coat finish won’t show brush marks, giving you long-lasting protection that resists fading.
- EASY TO APPLY – With just one deck staining coat needed, this natural wood stain lets you finish your projects quicker and get back to enjoying the outdoors.
- IDEAL FOR - Use as a deck stain, wood fence stain and sealer, and much more. It’s ideal for decks, siding, and fencing.
- CABOT STAIN – Since 1877, Cabot has been a leader in wood care with easy-to-use prep products, long-lasting deck staining products, durable topcoats and more. At Cabot, we do wood care. And we’re here to help.
Product Description
Cabot 140.0016316.007 Semi-Transparent Deck & Siding Low VOC Exterior Stain, Gallon, New Cedar is an easy-to-use, high-performing stain that offers great UV protection for your outdoor surfaces. This product is ideal for decks, siding, and other exterior surfaces. It is made with a high-quality, oil-based formula that provides long-lasting protection from the elements. This stain is also resistant to mildew and fading, so your surfaces will look great for years to come.
Pros
- Easy to use
- UV protection
- Water repellant
- Long-lasting protection
Cons
- May require more than one coat for desired opacity
- Can be difficult to remove if you change your mind about the color
6. Krylon K03604000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain, Redwood, 12 Ounc
- Premium, durable stain
- Water repellent and UV fade protection
- Fast, even coverage
- Fast, even coverage
Product Description
Krylon’s Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain in Redwood is perfect for adding a touch of color to your cedar siding while still allowing the wood’s natural grain to show through. This stain is easy to apply and provides long-lasting protection against the elements. Plus, it comes in a handy 12 oz. can, so you’ll have plenty to work with. It offers UV fade protection and water repellent to ensure a durable finish. This exterior stain is also semi-transparent, so it won’t entirely cover up the wood’s natural grain and beauty.
Pros
- UV fade protection
- Water repellent
- Durable finish
- Long-lasting protection
- Easy to apply
Cons
- May not completely cover the wood’s grain
Related: Can You Stain MDF Board?
FAQs On Best Exterior Stain for Cedar Siding
What Should I Use to Apply Exterior Stain for Cedar Siding?
You will need a paint roller, brush or sponge depending on the type of application you would like to do, as well as a pail and scoop. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific brand of stain.
How Long Can I Leave Exterior Stain on My Cedar Siding Before Reapplication?
It is recommended to use a paintbrush or roller for application and then let it sit at least 24 hours before you begin the process again of applying another coat of stain. If this time frame has passed, wait at least 72 hours from your last application.
What Is the Average Cost of Exterior Stain for Cedar Siding?
For a gallon, you can expect to pay around $20 on Amazon while one quart will set you back about $50. A five-gallon pail starts at about $95 with an additional shipping fee based on location and weight.
How Long Should I Wait to Use My Cedar Siding After Applying Exterior Stain?
You need to allow a good amount of time for the wood to dry. Once you have applied your first coat, let it sit at least 24 hours before reapplication or allowing other people on your property such as children and pets near the area that has been stained.
Conclusion
Exterior stains are an essential part of maintaining the beauty and durability of cedar siding. They protect the siding from the elements and provide a rich, beautiful color that lasts for years. When choosing the best exterior stain for your cedar siding, it’s important to consider the type of stain, the level of protection you need, and the look you’re trying to achieve. The top 6 best exterior stains for cedar siding, as well as the buying guide, should help you make an informed decision when it comes to protecting and enhancing the look of your cedar siding. Whether you prefer a solid color stain that hides imperfections, a semi-transparent stain that allows the natural beauty of the wood to show through, or an oil-based stain that provides a classic look, there’s a product out there that will meet your needs.
