Understanding Cedar's Characteristics

Cedar is a popular choice for your outdoor projects due to its natural beauty and durability. Western Red Cedar, for instance, has a distinct reddish hue and a pleasant scent that adds character to outdoor spaces.

Durability: Cedar wood contains natural oils that resist decay, making it a long-lasting option for outdoor use. You don’t have to worry as much about rot or insect damage compared to other woods.

Grain and Texture: Cedar has a straight grain and a medium to fine texture which contributes to its aesthetic appeal and makes it a good choice for a smooth finish.

Weight and Density: Cedar is a lightweight wood, which makes it easy to work with. Its low density, however, means that it can be prone to dents and scratches.

Property	Description
Rot Resistance	High—due to natural oils.
Workability	Easy to cut, shape, and finish.
Stability	Cedar has minimal shrinkage and swelling.
Maintenance	Requires periodic treatment to maintain appearance.

Keep in mind that while cedar is naturally resistant to the elements, it can benefit from a protective finish to maintain its color and texture over time. Properly finishing cedar will enhance its resistance to water, UV light, and wear from regular use.

Selecting the Right Type of Cedar

When choosing cedar for outdoor projects, you'll encounter two predominant types: Western Red Cedar and Eastern White Cedar. Each offers unique properties suitable for various applications.

• Western Red Cedar

  • Durability: Naturally resistant to rot and decay, making it ideal for outdoor use.
  • Color: Rich reddish-brown hues that can weather to a silver-grey if untreated.
  • Grain: Straight grain and uniform texture allows for a smooth finish.
  • Workability: Soft wood that's easy to work with both hand and power tools.
  • Availability: Widely available across North America.
  • Cost: Generally more expensive due to its superior qualities.

• Eastern White Cedar

  • Durability: Good resistance to decay, less than Western Red but sufficient for outdoor use.
  • Color: Lighter in color, typically tan to white, can fade to a silver-grey.
  • Grain: Fine grain which can have knots, offering a more rustic appearance.
  • Workability: More brittle than Western Red, requires care when working to avoid splitting.
  • Availability: Common in the Eastern United States and Canada.
  • Cost: Usually less expensive than Western Red Cedar.

Property	Western Red Cedar	Eastern White Cedar
Durability	High	Good
Color	Reddish-brown	Tan to white
Grain	Straight and uniform	Fine with possible knots
Workability	Easy	Requires care
Availability	Wide	Regional
Cost	Higher	Lower

When selecting cedar wood, consider the specific needs of your project. Evaluate aspects like climate, project type, and budget. If longevity and aesthetics are top priorities, Western Red Cedar may be the better choice. For projects where cost is more critical, or a rustic look is desired, Eastern White Cedar could be the suitable option. Remember that regardless of type, proper finishing and maintenance will extend the life and beauty of your cedar outdoor project.

Preparing the Cedar for Finishing

Proper preparation ensures the cedar's longevity and beauty when exposed to outdoor elements. This stage is crucial for achieving a high-quality finish.

Sanding the Surface

Begin by sanding the cedar wood to create a smooth surface, which will help the finish adhere properly. Use 120-grit sandpaper for the initial sanding and progress to a finer 220-grit for the final pass. Always sand in the direction of the grain to avoid scratches.

Cleaning the Wood

After sanding, remove all dust and debris from the cedar’s surface. A tack cloth works well for picking up fine particles, followed by wiping the wood with a damp cloth. Allow the wood to dry completely before proceeding to avoid trapping moisture under the finish.

Repairing Imperfections

Inspect the wood for any cracks or holes. Use wood filler to repair these imperfections, and ensure it is suitable for exterior use. Once filled, sand the areas smooth to match the surrounding surface. This step is essential to prevent future moisture penetration and decay.

Choosing the Finish for Cedar

When selecting a finish for your cedar, it's important to consider the durability and aesthetic you want to achieve. Outdoor cedar faces elements like UV rays and moisture, so choose a finish that provides protection and enhances the wood's natural beauty.

Oil-Based Finishes

Oil-based finishes penetrate deeply into cedar, offering enhanced water repellency and UV protection. Teak oil and linseed oil are commonly used, with the former providing a rich, golden hue and the latter a slightly amber tone. These finishes need reapplication every few years to maintain their effectiveness.

• Pros:
  • Deep penetration for protection
  • Natural wood look
• Cons:
  • Regular maintenance required
  • Longer drying times

Acrylic-Based Finishes

Acrylic-based finishes form a protective film on the surface of the cedar. They're available in a variety of colors and can mimic the look of natural wood. These finishes are often favored for their ease of application and quick drying times, but they may require more frequent reapplication in harsh climates.

• Pros:
  • Quick drying
  • Variety of color options
• Cons:
  • Surface film can peel over time
  • Less penetration than oil-based

Epoxy Resin Finishes

Epoxy resin finishes in outdoor settings provide a tough, clear, and waterproof layer that showcases the cedar's grain. It is particularly effective in sealing and protecting from rot, pests, and heavy wear. However, it can be more involved to apply and may yellow over time under UV exposure.

• Pros:
  • Excellent moisture barrier
  • High durability and clear finish
• Cons:
  • Complex application process
  • Potential for yellowing with UV exposure

Applying the Finish

Proper application of finish on cedar is crucial for its durability when used outdoors. The techniques below help ensure the finish adheres well and provides lasting protection.

Brush Application

For brush application, use a high-quality brush to ensure a smooth and even coat. Apply the finish along the grain of the wood. Begin with a thin layer, allowing it to penetrate into the cedar. Once dry, add a second, heavier coat for additional protection. Ensure no drips or uneven spots remain.

Spray Application

When using a spray system, maintain a constant motion to prevent runs. Hold the sprayer about 6 to 8 inches from the surface and apply in a consistent, overlapping pattern. Cover the surface with a light first coat and let it dry. Subsequent coats can be slightly heavier, but avoid applying too much at once to prevent sagging.

Wiping Technique

Wiping finish onto cedar is an effective method for intricate pieces. Soak a clean, lint-free cloth in the finish and apply it generously over the cedar surface. Wipe in the direction of the grain, ensuring complete coverage. Once the surface is wet, wipe off any excess to avoid a sticky residue. This technique provides a hand-rubbed look that emphasizes the natural beauty of cedar.

Maintenance and Care

To ensure long-lasting beauty and durability of your cedar, regular maintenance and due care are essential. Here's how you can keep your cedar looking great year-round.

Routine Cleaning

You should clean your cedar items a couple of times a year to remove dirt, debris, and any mildew. Use a soft bristle brush and a mixture of mild detergent and water to gently scrub the surface. Rinse thoroughly with a hose afterwards.

• Materials Needed:
  • Soft bristle brush
  • Mild detergent
  • Water
  • Hose or bucket for rinsing

Reapplying Finish Periodically

Over time, the finish on cedar will wear down due to exposure to the elements. You'll need to reapply a protective finish every 2 to 3 years, depending on weather conditions and the current state of the wood.

1. Clean the wood surface.
2. Sand lightly if necessary.
3. Apply an even coat of exterior-grade product, such as a stain with UV blockers or a clear wood preservative.

Protecting from Direct Sunlight

While cedar is naturally resistant to sun damage, prolonged exposure to UV rays can degrade the wood and its finish. Consider positioning your cedar items in a shaded area or using UV-resistant finishes to prolong the life of your cedar's appearance.

• Tips:
  • Position furniture under a canopy or trees.
  • Use umbrellas or awnings for additional protection.
  • Reapply UV-resistant finishes as part of your regular maintenance cycle.

Seasonal Considerations for Cedar Care

When preparing cedar for outdoor use, it's crucial to consider the changing seasons, as weather conditions affect wood maintenance requirements. Here's how you can keep your cedar in top condition throughout the year:

Spring:

• Begin with a thorough inspection of your cedar structures post-winter. Look for any signs of damage or wear.
• Wash the surfaces with a mild soap solution to remove dirt and grime accumulated over winter.
• Apply a light coat of wood brightener to restore cedar’s natural color.

Summer:

• Ensure cedar has a protective finish, as UV rays can cause discoloration. A UV-resistant sealant is recommended.
• Regularly check for moisture intrusion, especially after rains, as cedar is prone to mildew during high humidity.

Season	Maintenance Task
Fall	Clear debris and apply a water-repellent finish to prepare for wet conditions.
Winter	Periodically remove snow from cedar surfaces to reduce moisture contact.

Fall:

• Clean off leaves and debris that can trap moisture and cause rot.
• Check the integrity of any sealants and reapply if necessary to protect against the coming cold and moisture.

Winter:

• Promptly shovel snow off cedar surfaces to prevent prolonged contact with moisture.
• If cedar is used for decking, avoid harsh ice-melt chemicals that may damage the wood. Sand can provide traction without harming the surface.

Regular seasonal maintenance will prolong the life and beauty of your cedar, ensuring it withstands the elements year-round.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When finishing cedar for outdoor use, you might encounter several common issues such as discoloration, wood rot, and peeling and flaking. Proper troubleshooting can ensure the longevity and beauty of your cedar projects.

Discoloration

Cedar wood can discolor for several reasons including exposure to UV light, moisture, and the presence of metal fasteners.

• UV Light: To combat fading from UV exposure, apply a UV-inhibitor sealer regularly.
• Moisture: Ensure cedar has adequate drainage and airflow to prevent moisture build-up.
• Metal Reaction: Use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners to prevent stains from metal corrosion.

Wood Rot

Wood rot is a serious concern and is caused by fungi due to excess moisture.

• Prevention: Keep the cedar dry, especially at cut ends and joints.
• Treatment: At the first sign of rot, remove the affected section and treat with a fungicidal wood preservative.

Peeling and Flaking

Finish peeling and flaking occur when the sealant fails to adhere properly to the wood surface.

• Surface Preparation: Before applying a new finish, always sand the cedar to remove old finishes and open up the wood pores.
• Quality Products: Use high-quality stains and sealants designed for outdoor wood to reduce the risk of peeling and flaking.