Treating Cedar Wood: Protect It With These Easy Steps

Treating Cedar Wood: Protect It With These Easy Steps

Cedar wood, known for its beautiful grain, natural oils, and resistance to insects, is a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor projects. However, even cedar benefits from proper treatment to maximize its lifespan and maintain its aesthetic appeal. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps for effectively treating cedar wood.

Why Treat Cedar Wood?

While cedar boasts natural protective qualities, treating it amplifies these advantages and addresses specific concerns:

• Enhanced Weather Resistance: Cedar can withstand considerable weather exposure, but sealant application significantly improves its resistance to rain, sun (UV damage), and temperature fluctuations.
• Color Preservation: Untreated cedar will naturally weather to a silver-gray color. Treatment can help retain its original reddish-brown hue.
• Reduced Cracking and Warping: Sealants regulate moisture absorption, minimizing the risk of the wood expanding and contracting excessively, leading to cracks and warping.
• Increased Lifespan: Proper treatment extends the life of cedar wood, protecting your investment.

Preparing Cedar Wood for Treatment

Proper preparation is crucial for ensuring the treatment adheres correctly and provides optimal protection.

Cleaning the Cedar Wood

1. Remove Dirt and Debris: Begin by using a brush or broom to remove any loose dirt, dust, cobwebs, or other debris from the surface of the cedar wood.
2. Wash the Surface:
   • For light cleaning, mix a mild soap (like dish soap) with water.
   • For heavier cleaning, use a specialized wood cleaner or a solution of TSP (trisodium phosphate) following the manufacturer’s instructions. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, when handling TSP.
   • Apply the cleaning solution with a sponge or soft brush, scrubbing gently to remove any stains or mildew.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the cedar wood thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining soap or cleaning solution.
4. Allow to Dry Completely: Allow the cedar wood to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. This may take several hours or even a full day, depending on the weather conditions.

Sanding the Cedar Wood

Sanding provides a smooth surface for better sealant adhesion.

1. Assess the Surface: Determine if sanding is necessary. New cedar may not require heavy sanding, while weathered cedar might need more attention.
2. Choose the Correct Grit: Start with a coarser grit sandpaper (80-120 grit) for rough surfaces and gradually move to a finer grit (180-220 grit) for a smooth finish.
3. Sand with the Grain: Always sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratching.
4. Remove Sanding Dust: Use a tack cloth or vacuum to thoroughly remove all sanding dust before applying the sealant.

Choosing the Right Treatment for Cedar Wood

Selecting the correct treatment depends on the project type, desired aesthetic, and level of protection needed.

Types of Treatments

• Penetrating Oil Finishes: These oils soak into the wood, providing protection from within. They are often preferred for their natural look and ease of application. Examples include:
  • Linseed Oil: A traditional option, linseed oil provides good protection but requires regular reapplication.
  • Tung Oil: Tung oil offers better water resistance than linseed oil and creates a slightly harder finish.
  • Cedar Oil: Specifically formulated for cedar, this oil helps to enhance the wood’s natural properties.
• Film-Forming Sealants: These sealants create a protective layer on the surface of the wood. They offer excellent weather protection but can sometimes look less natural. Examples include:
  • Spar Urethane: Highly durable and water-resistant, spar urethane is ideal for outdoor projects exposed to harsh conditions.
  • Exterior Wood Sealants: These sealants come in a variety of formulations, offering different levels of protection and aesthetic finishes.
• Stains: Stains add color to the cedar wood while also providing some level of protection. Many stains contain UV inhibitors to help prevent fading.

Factors to Consider

The following table can help you decide which treatment is most suitable for your project.

Factor	Penetrating Oil Finishes	Film-Forming Sealants	Stains
Appearance	Natural, Matte	Glossy, Can be Tinted	Adds Color, Various Finishes
Protection Level	Moderate	High	Moderate
Durability	Moderate	High	Moderate
Ease of Application	Easy	Moderate	Easy
Reapplication	More Frequent	Less Frequent	Varies

Applying the Treatment to Cedar Wood

Follow these steps for successful application, regardless of the chosen treatment.

1. Read the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific product you are using.
2. Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying the treatment to the entire project, test it in a small, hidden area to ensure you like the color and finish.
3. Apply Evenly: Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the treatment evenly, following the direction of the wood grain.
4. Allow to Dry: Allow the treatment to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Apply Additional Coats (if needed): Depending on the product and the desired level of protection, you may need to apply additional coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
6. Clean Your Tools: Clean your brushes, rollers, or sprayer immediately after use with the appropriate solvent.

Maintaining Treated Cedar Wood

Regular maintenance will help to prolong the life of the treatment and keep your cedar wood looking its best.

• Regular Cleaning: Clean the cedar wood regularly with a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt and debris.
• Inspect for Damage: Inspect the cedar wood regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, warping, or discoloration.
• Reapply Treatment as Needed: Reapply the treatment as needed, following the manufacturer’s instructions. The frequency of reapplication will depend on the type of treatment used and the level of exposure to the elements. Generally penetrating oils need more frequent reapplication (yearly) than film-forming sealants (every 2-3 years).

And that’s how you can keep your cedar looking great! Remember, treating cedar wood the right way will keep it protected for the long haul. Hope these tips were helpful!