Q: Do I need to apply a stain to my cedar product?
A: If left unfinished, cedar will develop a silver-greyish appearance giving it a weathered look, which some clients prefer, but may put the cedar in danger of decay. A quality stain can assist the durability and enhance the beauty of your cedar product. We recommend an  oil-based stain in your choice of tinted transparent finishes for a subtle, natural look, or lightly pigmented semi-transparent finish for a more finished appearance.. A finish that provides mildewcide and ultraviolet shielding properties, in addition to other preservatives will protect the wood's natural attractiveness. Varnishes and other film-forming coatings which may result in cracking and peeling of the surface treatment are not recommended for use on cedar.

Q: What is the best way to apply stain to my new cedar product?
A: Allow your fence, deck, or furniture to set in the warm weather so that any moisture in the wood will evaporate first. If your cedar product is installed in the poor weather you would be best to wait until after a few days of warm, sunshine before applying the stain. It's the sun that causes the most distress to untreated wood, not the rain. You can use a brush, roller or spray canister, with appropriate safety precautions as indicated on the container of stain. Don't hurry the job, apply stain to a small area and wipe off the excess before moving on.

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