Clapboard Siding Maintenance

If you find damaged areas in your paint scrape them off then sand the edges smooth.

Clapboard siding maintenance.

Genuine cedar siding is going to require washing and staining sealing or painting on a regular basis. If you d like to avoid repairs that could cost thousands of dollars and you d like to keep your clapboard shingles or board and batten lasting for decades regular upkeep and maintenance is critical. The paint or stain coating the wood must be. It acts as a protective barrier.

It s easier to replace a few damaged clapboards than to backpedal after your siding has begun to rot from moisture exposure. Inspect your home regularly to make sure the paint isn t cracking blistering or peeling. Pay special attention to siding located near the ground and at junctures where the siding meets other building materials. If you have mold and mildew problems you can use some bleach.

The paint that covers your siding is the most important part of protecting your clapboard siding from rain snow and the heat of the sun. Power wash every two to four years. It s best to hire a siding company or a carpenter to replace the broken sections. A mild non phosphate detergent is recommended.

Minor damage next look for more subtle telltale signs of deterioration problems such as discoloration rusted nails. Compared to today s vinyl siding wooden clapboards are high maintenance. Your climate and landscape will determine how often these processes are required. Allow the primer to dry and you re ready for the final coat of paint.

Choosing the right sealer. When you notice a crack or a hole from a thrown rock or even a large hailstone you ll need to get the section repaired. Caulk the end joint and prime the front of each clapboard image 3. For general cleaning use a soap and water solution to scrub the siding and then wash it down.

You need to check the clapboard siding routinely for cracked or broken boards. Dusty climates will require more frequent washing.