Quck answer
Cedar wood can be sealed to protect it from moisture, sunlight, and pests. Here are the steps to seal cedar wood:
1. Clean the wood: Remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the cedar wood using a brush or vacuum cleaner.
2. Sand the wood: Use sandpaper to smooth the surface of the wood and remove any rough spots or imperfections.
3. Choose a sealant: Select a sealant suitable for cedar wood, such as an oil-based or water-based sealant. Consider factors like durability and UV protection.
4. Apply the sealant: Using a brush or roller, apply a thin and even coat of sealant to the cedar wood. Make sure to cover all sides and edges.
5. Let it dry: Allow the sealant to dry completely as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes a few hours or overnight.
6. Apply additional coats: Depending on the level of protection desired, apply additional coats of sealant, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.
By following these steps, you can effectively seal cedar wood and extend its lifespan.
To preserve the durability of cedar wood in both outdoor and indoor construction projects, it is optional to apply a protective finish. If you wish to enjoy the natural scent of cedar varieties like Western red cedar and incense cedar, it is best to leave the wood unsealed. However, if you are using cedar for an outdoor project, it is recommended to apply a light seal coat to protect it against moisture and sunlight.
The Advantages of Cedar
Cedar wood naturally resists rot, but its benefits as a building material extend beyond that. It is lightweight yet harder than most other softwoods, including fir and pine. Cedar is also structurally more stable than many other wood species, reducing the likelihood of cracks and splits. Additionally, the rot-resistant oils found in cedar emit a strong aroma that acts as an effective insect repellent. Western red cedar, a common species, has a high thermal coefficient, keeping structures made from it cool on hot days.
Protecting Exterior Cedar
Cedar used for outdoor projects, such as furniture, fences, siding, and play structures, can last for years without any finish due to its natural resistance to rot and stability. However, when exposed to direct sunlight, cedar will only retain its natural color for a few months. To prevent it from turning gray, it is recommended to apply a finish that reflects ultraviolet sunlight, which breaks down the surface fibers.
An effective option is to use a semitransparent stain that contains cedar-colored pigments. This can be refreshed as needed to maintain the natural colors. If weather resistance is the main concern and color is not an issue, a water-sealing finish can be used. These finishes often contain paraffin, which creates a light coating within the grain and repels water.
Follow these steps to protect exterior cedar:
- Apply the sealant or stain to clean, dry cedar. It is not recommended to apply the coating to wet wood, as it may not adhere properly. Additionally, ensure that the wood surface is free of dirt or grime, as this can affect the finish.
- Prior to application, wash the wood using a gentle hand wash instead of a power washer, which can cause damage. Allow the wood to fully dry before starting the sealing process.
- The sealant can be applied with a brush or roller. For smaller areas, a brush is recommended to ensure an even coat, especially in the grooves. Pay special attention to joints, edges, and board ends, as these areas are more susceptible to moisture. The sealant will typically need to be reapplied every one to two years.
Protecting Interior Cedar
When preserving cedar’s aromatic qualities is not a priority for interior woodwork, applying a seal coat can make the wood easier to clean. For surfaces that require a hard glossy finish, such as tabletops or window ledges, a seal coat of thinned varnish or lacquer sanding sealer can be applied to make cedar smoother and ready for one or two top coats of varnish or lacquer. Cedar accepts most finishes well, including penetrating oils like tung oil and linseed oil, which are effective for sealing the grain while maintaining a raw and natural appearance.
Just like with exterior applications, it is important to start interior sealing projects with clean cedar. To aid ventilation, open a window or door in the room. Brush or roll the chosen sealant onto the interior cedar piece, allowing each coat to fully dry before applying another one.
Preparing Cedar for Painting
Cedar can be painted, but it requires a layer of primer before painting, especially because of its high oil content. The natural oils in cedar can seep through paint and create dark spots around knots and areas with rich sap. To avoid this, it is recommended to use a high-solid primer. An alkyd oil-based primer is particularly effective in preventing discoloration. Using a primer with a high pigment concentration not only prevents bleed-through, but also improves the coverage of the top coat and reduces the application time.
The primer can be applied to the cedar using either a brush or a roller. As with any coating, it is important to start with a clean surface. If the cedar has been previously painted, any loose or peeling paint should be removed before applying the primer. Ensure that the cedar is completely covered with the primer before applying the paint.
