Natural
Water-Repellents
Water-repellents and water-repellent
preservatives may be applied to cedar
used above ground. These formulations
reduce water absorption in the short
term. The addition of a fungicide that
inhibits the growth of mildew and decay
fungi will further increase wood's durability.
A low wax content water-repellent preservative
applied to newly-milled cedar as a single-coat
pre-treatment before painting may help
reduce discoloration caused by bleeding
of water-soluble extractives. |
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| A natural-tone,
semi-transparent stain on this
board-and-batten siding protects
the wood yet reveals the innate
beauty of cedar's grain and texture.
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Semi-Transparent Stains
Semi-transparent stains may be latex or oil-based.
The semi-transparent nature of the stain,
due to its low solids content, does not block
all ultraviolet radiation and some will reach
the wood's surface. Latex stains do not penetrate
the surface and are not as durable.
Caution
Transparent, non-flexible, film-forming
finishes such as lacquer, shellac, urethane,
and varnish are not recommended for exterior
use on cedar. Ultraviolet radiation can
penetrate the transparent film and degrade
the wood. Regardless of the number of coats,
the finish will eventually become brittle,
develop severe cracks and then fail.
Natural appearance
and protection from moisture are advantages
provided by penetrating pigmented stains.
Semi-transparent stains are more durable
than transparent finishes. |
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