Things to Know Before You Install Cedar Cladding

Cedar has long been a favourite in residential and commercial architecture, and it is easy to see why. There is something about the way it catches the evening light that stops people mid-stride. Its warm tones, natural grain, and subtle fragrance give buildings a character that synthetic materials struggle to replicate.

But while it may look like a simple design choice from the outside, installing cedar cladding involves several practical considerations that can affect performance, longevity, and overall cost. Before you commit to the material, it helps to understand how it behaves, what it demands in terms of maintenance, and how to get the best results from your investment.

1. Not All Cedar Is the Same

When people talk about cedar, they often assume it is a single, uniform product, but there are different species and grades that can significantly affect appearance and durability. Western Red Cedar is found both in Canada and in the UK. The Canadian WRC is more widely used because of its natural resistance to moisture, decay, and insects, while other varieties may differ slightly in tone, knot content and performance.

The grade you select will determine how many knots, colour variations, or imperfections are visible, which directly influences the final aesthetic of your façade. Clear grades provide a sleek, modern finish, whereas knotty grades create a more rustic and textured look that suits traditional or country-style homes.

Beyond appearance, kilning also matters more than most buyers realise. Timber that has been properly kiln-dried will perform more consistently over time, reducing the risk of warping or excessive movement. It is worth asking suppliers about moisture content and storage conditions before delivery, as improperly stored boards can lead to installation headaches later on.

2. Installation Technique Makes a Huge Difference

Even the highest-quality cladding will not perform well if it is installed incorrectly, and this is where many projects run into trouble. Proper ventilation behind the boards is essential to allow moisture to escape, which helps prevent rot and prolongs the life of the timber. A properly spaced rainscreen system is often recommended, especially in regions with high rainfall or humidity, because it creates a drainage and airflow gap that protects the structure underneath.

Fixings are another detail that should not be overlooked, as cedar contains natural compounds that can react with certain metals. Stainless steel screws are generally preferred because they resist corrosion and prevent unsightly staining on the wood surface. Attention to spacing is equally important, since timber naturally expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity, and leaving adequate gaps ensures the boards can move without cracking or buckling.

3. Weathering Is Part of the Process

One of the most common surprises for homeowners is how cedar changes colour over time. Freshly installed boards typically display rich reddish-brown or honey tones, but exposure to sunlight gradually transforms the surface into a soft silver-grey patina. Some people love this weathered look and consider it one of the material’s greatest strengths, while others prefer to maintain the original warmth through staining or oiling.

If you choose to preserve the original colour, you will need to apply a suitable UV-protective finish and maintain it regularly, as coatings naturally degrade with exposure to the elements. On the other hand, allowing the timber to weather naturally reduces ongoing maintenance but requires you to embrace tonal variation, especially on elevations that receive uneven sunlight.

4. Long-Term Costs Go Beyond the Initial Price

While cedar cladding is often considered a premium exterior finish, the upfront material cost is only part of the overall equation. Installation labour, substructure preparation, ventilation systems, and protective treatments all contribute to the total project budget. In addition, ongoing maintenance, whether that means periodic cleaning, resealing, or inspections for wear, should be factored into your long-term planning.

That said, cedar’s natural durability and insulation properties can add value in ways that are less obvious at first glance. Its lightweight nature makes it easier to work with compared to heavier alternatives, and its natural resistance to decay can reduce the need for frequent replacements. When installed correctly and maintained thoughtfully, it offers a balance of beauty and performance that many synthetic materials struggle to match.

Author Profile

Adam Regan: Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com