If you’re planning to install cedar wood shingles or a wooden deck, one of the most common questions is whether you should install the wood first and then stain it, or stain the wood before installation. I’m Paul from Trusted House Painter, and after years of experience working with homeowners and contractors, I want to share the best approach to ensure your wood shingles or decking last longer and look stunning.
Why Pre-Stain Wood Shingles and Boards Before Installation?
My advice is simple: always pre-stain all six sides of the shingles or boards before installing them. You might wonder why six sides when a shingle sometimes has a very thin edge. Even if you consider that edge as just one side, it’s crucial to coat every surface. This thorough coating helps protect the wood from moisture and environmental damage from every angle.
At a recent work site, I observed siding being removed to be replaced with beautiful West Coast Cedar shingles. The difference pre-staining makes in protecting and enhancing the wood’s natural look is remarkable. Pre-staining sets the foundation for a durable, elegant finish that enhances the wood’s natural beauty.
Choosing the Right Stain: Oil-Based vs. Acrylic Waterborne
When it comes to selecting a stain, the choice often comes down to oil-based versus acrylic waterborne stains. Here’s my take:
- Oil-Based Stains: I recommend oil-based stains 90% of the time. They provide superior longevity and are easier to maintain over time. Pre-coating shingles with oil-based stain before installation helps the wood resist weathering and wear much better.
- Acrylic Waterborne Stains: These stains tend to have better color retention and require less frequent maintenance. However, they don’t offer the same level of long-term protection as oil-based stains.
One challenge with staining after installation is that wood shingles can flex, move, or concave due to heat and temperature changes. This movement can prevent the stain from properly adhering and coating the wood evenly. Pre-staining all sides ensures the wood is fully protected before it faces these stresses.
Maintenance and Longevity of Wood Stains
Oil-based stains might require a bit more maintenance than acrylic coatings, but their durability makes them worth it. Once the shingles or boards are pre-stained on all sides, painters can come back later to apply a topcoat or simply maintain the stain with a fresh coat every few years.
Keep in mind that the direction your house faces impacts stain longevity. Houses with south, west, or east-facing wood surfaces receive more intense UV exposure. This increased sun exposure accelerates stain fading and may require more frequent maintenance compared to north-facing sides.
The Beauty and Elegance of Cedar Wood Stain
Besides protection, wood stain offers a timeless, elegant aesthetic. With cedar wood, you can achieve a natural warm tone or customize the color to your preference. Stained cedar shingles add character and charm to any home exterior without complicated upkeep.
Maintaining the stain is straightforward: a simple maintenance coat every few years keeps your shingles looking fresh and vibrant. This easy care routine is a small investment for the long-lasting beauty and protection it provides.
Find Trusted Professionals to Help You
If you’re looking for trusted local professionals to assist with your siding installation or staining project, visit TrustedHousePainter.com. It’s an online directory where you can:
- Find experienced local painters anywhere in the world
- Post your project and receive competitive quotes
- Download a free homeowner toolkit to guide you through the painting and staining process
This toolkit helps you avoid common pitfalls like rushing the project or hiring the lowest bid without considering quality. Taking the time to plan and hire the right professionals ensures your home looks great and the work lasts.
Let’s paint the world a better place—starting with your beautiful cedar shingles.
— Paul, Trusted House Painter
