Best Wood For Exterior Siding (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best wood for exterior siding, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. One should consider the durability, resistance to pests and weather, and level of maintenance required for the wood. Additionally, it's important to ensure that the wood meets local building codes and regulations.
Before investing in the best wood for exterior siding, it's critical to understand the environmental factors that can impact the performance of the wood. Regions with high levels of moisture or insect activity may require more resistant wood such as cedar or redwood. But, if you live in an area with more moderate weather, pine can be an affordable and durable option.
Is your home at risk of termite infestations? Are you looking for a low-maintenance wood option? What is your budget for exterior siding? These are some questions that can help you determine the best wood for exterior siding. Additionally, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional contractor or builder who can provide an expert opinion on the suitability of specific wood types for your home's location and design.
10 Best Wood For Exterior Siding
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Ideal for protecting and enhancing the natural beauty of wood used in log homes, siding, decks, and other exterior structures.
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2
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This product is ideal for staining wood decks, fences, and siding with a high-quality semi-transparent finish.
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3
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It is ideal for staining wood decks, fences, and siding with a semi-transparent color.
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4
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This product is ideal for enhancing the exterior appearance of homes with a rustic, cedar shake-inspired design.
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5
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Ideal for finishing and protecting wooden logs and sidings on homes or cabins.
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6
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This product is ideal for painting exterior siding, fences, and barns with both oil and water-based paints.
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7
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It is ideal for cleaning and removing dirt and green growth from exterior wood surfaces such as decks, siding, and furniture.
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8
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This product is ideal for use as siding on homes or other buildings, providing a durable and attractive exterior.
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9
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The product is ideal for cleaning and stripping wood decks, fences, siding, and log cabins to prepare for sealing and staining.
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10
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The product is ideal for cleaning various exterior surfaces such as roofs, vinyl siding, wood, decks, and concrete.
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1. #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain For Decks, Fences, & Siding – 2.5 Gallon (Dark Walnut)
Looking for a high-quality protective coating for your wood deck? Look no further than #1 Deck. This versatile deck stain and sealant is designed to protect your wood from the elements, preventing fading, graying, and other forms of damage. Whether you have pressure-treated pine, cedar, fir, redwood, or another type of softwood, #1 Deck is the perfect choice.
Dual-Purpose Stain and Sealer
Not only does #1 Deck protect your wood from damage, but it also adds color and seals it against water penetration. This dual-purpose stain and sealer is the perfect solution for anyone who wants to keep their deck looking great for years to come.
Semi-Transparent Colors
Available in five beautiful, semi-transparent colors, #1 Deck allows the natural wood grain to show through, enhancing the beauty of your exterior wood. The finishes dry to a flat, natural look that will complement any outdoor space.
Eco-Friendly and Easy to Clean
With less than 50 g/L VOC content, #1 Deck is better for the planet than many other deck stains and sealants on the market. Plus, cleanup is a breeze – just use soap and water. You'll love how easy it is to maintain your deck with #1 Deck.
Works on Damp Wood
One of the best things about #1 Deck is that it works on damp wood, minimizing the wait time between cleaning and staining. Once your wood deck is visibly dry, it's ready to be stained with #1 Deck.
2. Cottage Gray Wood Stain: Revive Your Outdoors
Looking to protect your wood surfaces from the wear and tear of daily use? Look no further than this easy-to-apply wood stain! With deep penetration into the wood grain, this stain ensures a long-lasting finish that won't easily fade or scratch.
Choose from five beautiful semi-transparent finishes – Natural, Cedar, Light Walnut, Dark Walnut, and Cottage Gray – to match your decor and taste. And with eco-safe, water-based formulas, cleanup is a breeze.
But this stain doesn't just look good – it also provides protection from damaging UV oxidation and graying. So whether you're staining a deck, fence, or other outdoor structure, you can trust this stain to keep your wood looking great for years to come.
Don't settle for a subpar wood stain – choose this high-quality option for a beautiful, long-lasting finish that's also easy on the environment.
3. Polaris Homeside Select Double 7in. Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding (1/2 Square) Savannah Wicker
The Tru-Lock state-of-the-art locking system is a revolutionary product that provides a secure and reliable solution for your home or office. Its random seams add a unique and authentic touch to the textured finish, which is modeled after dozens of real cedar shakes.
With low maintenance requirements, this product is perfect for those who want to save time and money on upkeep. Each box contains 10 pieces, which covers a total of 50 square feet. The linear footage per box is 480 feet, and it weighs 37 pounds.
This product's height measures 15-3/8 inches with an exposure of 17 inches overall. The width measures 48 inches with an exposure of 50-7/8 inches overall. It's double 7 inches thick and 1/8 inch in thickness. It's recommended to allow about 20% of the product for waste.
For best results, the CertainTeed 3/4 inch Savannah Wicker J Channel is the recommended color and size for J channel installation.
4. Ppg Proluxe Log And Siding Wood Finish, 1 Gallon, 005 Natural Oak
Introducing the High Solids Alkyd paint, a premium quality paint perfect for exterior use. This paint features Translucent Iron Oxide Pigments and UV Absorbers, which protect your surfaces from the harmful effects of UV rays and provide a long-lasting finish.
One of the standout features of this paint is its Microporosity, which allows the surface to breathe naturally and prevent moisture buildup. This ensures that your surfaces remain free from mold and mildew, and the paint stays intact for a long time.
The High Solids Alkyd paint also boasts excellent flexibility, which means that it can easily adapt to any surface movement without cracking or peeling. This is particularly useful for surfaces that experience frequent temperature fluctuations or movement, such as doors and windows.
Furthermore, this paint offers a beautiful Satin Finish, which gives your surfaces a sleek and modern look. You can use this paint on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and masonry.
In terms of specifications, the High Solids Alkyd paint has a high solids content, which means that it provides excellent coverage and durability. This paint is available in a range of colors, making it easy to find the perfect shade for your project.
5. Kilz 1682863 1 Gal Oil & Water-Based Siding Fence & Barn Paint Exterior White – Pack Of 4
Introducing the Dry Ice Antiperspirant & Deodorant, a pack of four that promises to keep you feeling fresh and confident all day long. This innovative product is designed to provide maximum protection against sweat and odor, making it an essential addition to your daily grooming routine.
Crafted in a classic white color, this antiperspirant and deodorant combination is an excellent choice for both men and women. The product's unique formula is specially formulated to combat sweat and odor, ensuring that you stay dry and comfortable throughout the day.
Cleaning up after using the Dry Ice Antiperspirant & Deodorant is a breeze. Simply use soap and water to remove any residue left behind. The product's coating material, made from high-quality latex, ensures that it stays in place and provides long-lasting protection.
Each pack contains four of these amazing antiperspirant and deodorant combinations, making it an excellent value for money. Whether you're a busy professional, an athlete, or simply someone who wants to stay fresh and confident, the Dry Ice Antiperspirant & Deodorant is the perfect choice for you.
6. Woca Exterior Wood Cleaner – Dirt & Growth Remover
The WOCA Exterior Wood Cleaner is a versatile and effective solution for all species of wood, including pressure treated, redwood, cedar, pine, fir, and exotic woods like teak, Ipé, mahogany, garapa, balau, and tigerwood. It is specially designed to clean and prepare outdoor wood surfaces for subsequent treatment with exterior wood finishes.
This product is easy to use – simply dilute it with tap water and spray the solution onto an already wet surface or apply it with a scrubber. Leave it to work for 5-10 minutes, then rinse it off with clean water. The solution is highly concentrated, and once diluted, it makes up to 6 gallons of cleaner, making it a cost-effective solution for cleaning large areas.
In addition to cleaning, the WOCA Exterior Wood Cleaner also penetrates the wood, providing a deep clean that removes dirt, oil, dark stains, and grime. This ensures that the surface is ready for subsequent treatment, allowing for better adhesion and durability of the finish.
One of the most significant advantages of the WOCA Exterior Wood Cleaner is that it is plant safe. When diluted as instructed, it is safe to use around plants in your garden, making it an environmentally friendly option. The formulation is VOC-free, which means it does not release harmful gases into the air during use.
7. Cedar Impressions Double 7in. Straight Edge Perfection Shingles Siding (1/2 Square) Colonial White
This product boasts a limited lifetime warranty and is proudly made in the USA. It is designed in accordance with various building codes, including IBS, IRC, Florida Building code, and National Building Code of Canada. The panel features TrueTexture technology and comes equipped with a Panel Thermometer for added convenience.
The panel lock is a Molded Continuous Perimeter Lock, ensuring a secure fit and easy installation. Each carton contains 11 pieces of this high-quality product.
With a width of 14 inches and a depth of 7 inches, this panel has a length of 47 inches and a thickness of .090 inches. The panel projection is 3/4 inch, providing a sleek and modern appearance.
This panel is compatible with a 3/4 inch J-channel and has a Flame Spread Index of less than 25, making it a safe and reliable choice for any building project.
Investing in this product means investing in a durable, reliable, and visually appealing solution for your building needs.
8. Woodrich Hd80 Heavy Duty Wood Stripper & Cleaner
The Heavy Duty Wood Stripper is a specially formulated solution designed to remove semi-transparent and solid deck stains and sealers, effectively stripping most exterior wood finishes. It cleans and conditions wood for staining by removing dirt, grime, and any existing stain or sealer.
This wood stripper is safe for use on all species of wood and any type of wood surface, making it a versatile option for restoring wood to its original condition. For the best results, it is recommended to use it alongside the Citralic Brightener and Neutralizer in a two-step process that can restore virtually any exterior wood surface to a fresh cut condition.
With excellent and affordable coverage, the Heavy Duty Wood Stripper can cover up to 3000 square feet of wood, making it a cost-effective solution at only $0.023 per square foot. This product is a great investment for anyone looking to restore their deck or other exterior wood surfaces, as it provides a reliable and efficient solution to remove existing stains and prepare the wood for a fresh new finish.
9. Organic Wash Safe For All-Purpose Exterior Cleaning
Introducing Wash Safe Supreme – the professional power washing formula that safely and effectively cleans an array of outdoor surfaces. This powerful formula is designed to eliminate ugly black and green stains, dirt and debris from your home's exterior without the use of harsh chemicals or bleach.
Safe, effective and easy to use, Wash Safe Supreme is powered by hydrogen peroxide, making it safe to use around grass and plants. Unlike chlorine bleach and TSP, Supreme will not harm vegetation around the house or people and pets with chemical odors or fumes. Plus, it's safe to use over water.
The power of oxygen is showcased in Supreme's ability to brighten wood siding, prepare siding for painting, make roofs look like new, clean and deodorize musty surfaces and so much more without the worry of staining or permanently bleaching surfaces. Use it to clean and deodorize items like garbage cans, litter boxes and other dirty jobs. The uses for this formula are endless, and the results are amazing. It can be used on nearly everything, except leather and suede.
Wash Safe Supreme is a professional strength, oxygen-based formula that ensures transformative cleaning results without compromise. The concentrated solution allows you to clean up to 10,000 sq. ft. with just a 10LB container. It is perfect for cleaning roofs, decks, siding, awnings, pergolas, blue stone, pavers, patios, deck furniture, concrete, vinyl, stucco, boats, sails, wood siding, RV’s, tents, and much more.
With an active life of 4-6 short hours before biodegrading, Wash Safe Supreme is by far the conscientious choice for professional power washing. Stains easily rinse right off with Supreme, a pressure washer and an easy spray on and rinse application. Say goodbye to chemical odors and fumes and hello to a clean, bright and fresh outdoor space with Wash Safe Supreme.
Best Wood For Exterior Siding FAQs
Are there any environmental concerns with using wood for exterior siding?
Yes, there are environmental concerns with using wood for exterior siding. Wood is a natural and renewable resource, but the harvesting and processing of wood can have negative impacts on the environment. Deforestation, soil erosion, and loss of habitat are some of the environmental issues associated with the harvesting of wood. Additionally, the use of chemicals to treat and preserve wood can also have harmful effects on the environment and human health.
However, there are also sustainable ways to use wood for exterior siding. Choosing wood that is certified by organizations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) ensures that the wood comes from responsibly managed forests. Using reclaimed wood or wood from salvaged structures is another eco-friendly option.
It is important to weigh the environmental pros and cons of using wood for exterior siding and make informed decisions that prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Can treated wood be used for exterior siding?
Yes, treated wood can be used for exterior siding. Treated wood is specifically designed to resist decay, insects, and other natural elements that can cause damage to wood over time. It is commonly used for outdoor projects such as decking, fencing, and siding. However, it is important to use the appropriate type of treated wood for your specific project. For example, if you are using treated wood for exterior siding, you should choose a product that is designed for above-ground use. This will ensure that the wood is able to withstand exposure to moisture and other weather conditions. Additionally, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and maintenance to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the treated wood siding. Overall, treated wood can be a durable and cost-effective option for exterior siding if used correctly.
How do I choose the right wood for my climate and environment?
Choosing the right wood for your climate and environment is an essential element in ensuring that your wood projects last a long time. To select the right wood, you need to consider the weather conditions in your area and the location of your project. Some woods are more durable and weather-resistant than others.
In humid and hot climates, woods like teak, cedar, and redwood are ideal. These woods have natural oils that protect them against rot, decay, and insect infestations. They are also resistant to warping, splitting, and cracking.
In dry and hot climates, woods like oak, walnut, and cherry are ideal. These woods are less likely to expand and contract due to changes in humidity levels. They are also resistant to decay and insect infestations.
In areas with harsh winters, woods like redwood, cedar, and teak are ideal. These woods can withstand extreme cold temperatures and are less likely to crack or split.
When selecting wood, you should also consider the location of your project. If your project is exposed to direct sunlight, you should choose a wood that is resistant to UV rays. If your project is near water, you should choose a wood that is resistant to moisture.
Overall, it's essential to choose the right wood for your climate and environment to ensure that your wood projects last a long time.
How does the cost of wood siding compare to other materials?
Wood siding is a popular choice among homeowners due to its natural beauty and durability. However, the cost of wood siding can vary greatly depending on the type of wood used, the size of the project, and the location of the home. In general, wood siding is more expensive than vinyl or aluminum siding, but less expensive than brick or stone.
The cost of wood siding can also be affected by factors such as the quality of the wood, the finish applied, and the installation method. Cedar and redwood are popular choices for wood siding due to their resistance to rot and insect damage, but they can be more expensive than other types of wood.
Overall, the cost of wood siding can range from $6 to $12 per square foot, including materials and installation. While it may be more expensive than some other siding options, many homeowners find that the natural beauty and durability of wood siding is worth the investment.
How long can I expect wood siding to last before it needs to be replaced?
The lifespan of wood siding can vary depending on several factors. The type of wood, the quality of the installation, and the level of maintenance can all affect how long your wood siding will last.
In general, wood siding can last anywhere from 10 to 100 years. Cedar and redwood siding, for example, are known for their durability and can last up to 50 years or more. However, if the siding is exposed to harsh weather conditions or is not properly maintained, it can deteriorate much faster.
It's important to regularly inspect your wood siding for signs of damage or wear, such as cracking, warping, or rotting. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning, staining or painting, and sealing, can also help extend the lifespan of your siding.
Ultimately, the lifespan of your wood siding will depend on a variety of factors, and it's important to consult with a professional if you are unsure about the condition of your siding or when it may need to be replaced.
What are some popular wood siding styles for modern homes?
There are several popular wood siding styles for modern homes that can provide a natural and timeless aesthetic appeal. One of the most popular styles is vertical board and batten siding, which features long, narrow boards with a raised batten seam that creates a striking vertical pattern. Another option is shiplap siding, which features overlapping horizontal boards with a small gap between them, giving a clean and modern look. Tongue and groove siding is also a popular choice, where each board interlocks with the one next to it, creating a smooth and uniform look. Additionally, channel siding is another option, where the boards are cut with grooves that allow them to overlap and create a channel effect. Ultimately, the choice of wood siding style will depend on the homeowner's preference, the architectural style of the home, and the overall design aesthetic. It is essential to choose high-quality wood siding materials and hire a professional installer to ensure long-lasting durability and performance.
What are the benefits of using wood for exterior siding?
Wood is a popular choice for exterior siding because of its natural beauty, durability, and versatility. There are several benefits of using wood for exterior siding, including:
1. Aesthetics: Wood siding provides a natural and warm look that can enhance the curb appeal of any home. It comes in a variety of finishes, stains, and textures, making it easy to match any architectural style.
2. Durability: With proper installation and maintenance, wood siding can last for decades. It is resistant to impact and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
3. Energy efficiency: Wood siding provides excellent insulation, helping to keep the home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This can lead to lower energy bills and a more comfortable home.
4. Sustainability: Wood is a renewable resource that can be sustainably harvested. It is also biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly choice.
5. Versatility: Wood siding can be cut and shaped into various sizes and styles, making it easy to create a custom look for any home.
In summary, wood siding offers a combination of beauty, durability, energy efficiency, sustainability, and versatility that make it a popular choice for homeowners.
What are the maintenance requirements for wood siding?
Wood siding is a popular choice for homeowners due to its natural beauty and versatility. However, it requires regular maintenance to keep it looking great and protected from the elements. The maintenance requirements for wood siding vary depending on the type of wood, climate, and level of exposure to the sun and moisture.
To maintain wood siding, it is recommended to clean it at least once a year. Use a soft-bristled brush or a power washer with low pressure to remove dirt, grime, and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the wood.
Inspect the wood siding for signs of rot, decay, or insect infestation regularly. Repair or replace any damaged or rotten boards as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Apply a protective finish to the wood siding every 3-5 years to protect it from moisture and UV rays. There are different types of finishes available, including stains, paints, and clear sealers.
In summary, maintaining wood siding requires regular cleaning, inspection, and protective finishing. By following these simple steps, you can keep your wood siding looking great for years to come.
What types of wood are commonly used for exterior siding?
There are several types of wood that are commonly used for exterior siding. Cedar is a popular choice due to its natural resistance to decay and insects, as well as its attractive appearance. Redwood is another durable and attractive option that is known for its resistance to warping and splitting. Pine is a more affordable choice that can also be treated to resist decay and insects. Cypress is a rot-resistant wood that is commonly used in coastal areas. Finally, spruce and fir are also popular choices due to their availability and affordability, but they require regular maintenance to prevent decay and insect damage. Ultimately, the type of wood used for exterior siding will depend on factors such as climate, budget, and personal preference. It is important to choose a wood that is suitable for the specific environmental conditions of the home's location, and to properly maintain the siding to ensure its longevity.
Which wood species offer the best durability for exterior siding?
When it comes to exterior siding, durability is a crucial factor to consider. There are several wood species that offer excellent durability for exterior siding, such as cedar, redwood, and cypress.
Cedar is a popular choice for its natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage. Its lightweight and easy-to-work-with properties also make it a preferred material for siding. Redwood, on the other hand, is known for its natural beauty and durability. It has a higher resistance to decay and insect damage than cedar, making it a top choice for many homeowners.
Cypress is another wood species that offers excellent durability for exterior siding. It is naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage, and its distinctive grain patterns give it a unique look.
In addition to these wood species, there are also engineered wood products available that offer enhanced durability and resistance to moisture and decay. It's important to choose a wood species or engineered wood product that is specifically designed for exterior use and is properly maintained to ensure long-lasting durability.
