How To Lighten Dark Cedar Siding
Removal can be done with a commercial mildew remover or with dilute solutions of liquid household oxygen based bleach followed by thorough rinsing with clean water.
How to lighten dark cedar siding. Shingles if needed can go architectural and stand out a bit more. Paint s solids ward off light and light is the main contributor to the deterioration of cedar. Rinse the sponge in clear water before dipping it again in the neutralizing solution. Mix the oxygen bleach in a ratio of 2 cups of powdered granules to 1 gallon of water or based on the product and manufacturer s instructions on the label pour the mixture into a cleaned out lawn and garden sprayer.
We have a home that has stained wood siding. We would like to change the color of the siding to a lighter more neutral color like gray or beige. Treating cedar with primer and paint. Change the color of your cedar siding go lighter with new stain or change it out and go maintenance free with a lighter colored lp smartside siding.
You could use a white wash by mixing 1 part paint with 3 parts water add more water for less color test on a small area. One part white vinegar to 3 or 4 parts water is fine. Brush or roll on and wipe off excess until it looks how you want. The stain is a deep red stain and it is rather dark.
After these preparations scrub the surface with a stiff bristle not wire brush and water and rinse with clean water. Dip a sponge in the vinegar solution and wipe it on the bleached wood. Brighten the surface of the cedar siding with deck and fence brightener or apply a new coat of stain to restore a vivid color and luster to the siding. Tips for restoring blackened cedar shake siding.
Lighter colors last longer since they reflect light more efficiently than darker colors. Add some bolder trim not sure what s there now and let it accent the rest of the house. Paint is your best option for treating cedar if your only intent is protection. Use a synthetic cedar siding stain to prevent.
Once the cedar is dry you can leave it as is or apply the finish of your choice.