How long does it take for cedar wood to turn grey?
Sometimes its as early as 2 months, and other times it takes a year for the grey to set in. This is why stain is so necessary for your cedar wood. It keeps out the water, so those cells can keep doing their thing.
Why does my cedar fence turn gray?
There are many reasons cedar fences turn gray, but also many things you can do to prevent this Water is absorbs into the outer layers of your wood. in the process, it washes away the outer layer of cells in the cedar. These cells are still alive on the plank, and are the reason your fence looked so great when it was installed.
How long does it take to stain a cedar fence?
To be on the safe side I recommend taking care of the staining process just as soon as your cedar “dries out.” This is a process that takes about 5 weeks under normal circumstances. The good news is that you can repair the damage if your fence has already gone grey.
What color will my cedar wood fence turn?
New cedar wood fencing features a natural reddish coloring – a desired characteristic for most people who choose to build with cedar. If left untreated, over time that red weathers to light gray.
How long does it take for cedar wood to turn grey?
After installing your exterior cedar, you have about a two week grace period until the wood starts to discolor. After that, the color will rapidly change from red to gray.
How do I keep my cedar fence from turning grey?
How to Prevent a Cedar Fence From GrayingClear Weeds and Plants. Clear away any weeds along the fence line, and tie back any plants growing in front of the fence. ... Mix Cleaning Solution. ... Scrub Fence with Cleaning Solution. ... Wash Debris from Fence. ... Let Fence Dry. ... Apply Cedar Fence Stain. ... Reapply Stain as Necessary.
How long does it take cedar to fade?
However, even with the proper maintenance, cedar will eventually succumb to fading—usually after about 10 years—and lose its natural tone for good.
How do you gray out cedar?
Iron vinegar on cedar - cheap, easy and fast! Soak some steel wool in white vinegar for a few hours or a few days - the longer it steeps, the darker the aged effect will be.
How long should I wait to seal my new cedar fence?
A good rule of thumb is to wait four to eight weeks after the fence has been installed before staining and sealing it. During this period of time, the moisture content of the wood will decrease.
Can I leave cedar fence untreated?
Fences made of untreated cedar can last between 15 and 30 years, depending on how well you care for it and the specific cedar species used. If it's treated, a cedar fence may last up to 40 years. Cedar consistently outlasts other wood species. A spruce fence typically lasts only four to seven years.
Can you stop cedar going grey?
To let your wood go grey gracefully, a gentle scrub followed by a coat of transparent, water-repellent preservative will keep the cedar in great condition and protect against splitting and cracking.
Does cedar darken with age?
If left in its natural state, some darkening of the wood can be expected as it ages and the color variation will become less pronounced. Application of transparent finishes will also darken western red cedar to some degree but they form a protective surface that is easier to maintain.
Does cedar fade in sun?
But a major downside, for many, is that cedar can easily turn a dull gray without proper care, and once it goes gray it stays that way. But there are some things you can do to keep your cedar fence from fading in the sun.
Should you seal a new cedar fence?
Cleaning and general maintenance is necessary to preserve cedar wood fences. If cared for properly, a cedar fence will remain attractive and structurally sound for many years to come. Apply a waterproofing sealer to the cedar fence to protect the wood from splintering, cracking and warping due to the weather elements.
Why does cedar gray?
The combination of water and UV exposure causes the cedar to lose it's scent and colour, turning it into a dull grey. The wood rot on the cedar creates an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew, which is both unattractive and detrimental.
Why do Fences turn grey?
One of the biggest reasons for your fence turning gray is the sun. The sun's UV rays erode the outer layer of the wood, which gives it its lovely color. Once the outer layer of the wood has started to decay, it makes it difficult for the wood to produce its natural oils, so it will begin to dry out and lose color.
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How do I get a free price quote?
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How long does it take for cedar to dry out?
To be on the safe side I recommend taking care of the staining process just as soon as your cedar “dries out.”. This is a process that takes about 5 weeks under normal circumstances. The good news is that you can repair the damage if your fence has already gone grey. It just takes a little bit of effort on your part.
How long does it take for a fence to start to get problems?
Some people have seen trouble start in less than six weeks. Others can wait a year or more before they see problems. A fence that lives beneath full shade in dry conditions is going to last longer than a fence that lives in full sun, or a fence which is exposed to several months of heavy rain or snow.
How often should I reapply cedar stain?
And remember, you should reapply your stain every 2 years. If you do, your cedar should keep looking nice as long as the fence stands!
Why does cedar fade?
Why does this happen? There are two culprits: water and sun. Water erodes the outer layer of the wood cells that are still alive and well in a plank of cedar. They are busy producing the natural oils which gives cedar its nice color and smell.
Can UV rays fade cedar?
UV rays can also fade the colors of just about anything over time. That’s why as I evaluated the best stain brand for a cedar fence I spent a lot of time looking at how well any given stain resisted the sun’s UV rays. Then water moves back in. Now it’s eroding dead cell tissue, producing wood rot. It also turns your fence into a breeding ground ...
Why is my cedar fence turning gray?
There are many reasons cedar fences turn gray, but also many things you can do to prevent this. Water is absorbs into the outer layers of your wood. in the process, it washes away the outer layer of cells in the cedar.
What color is cedar fencing in CT?
That being said, your cedar needs to be maintained in order to keep it with that great red color and strength that it was when it was installed. But for most cedar fences, both water and sun can destroy the look of the wood.
How to get rid of grayed cells on fence?
By simply power-washing your fence, you can remove the grayed cells and mildew on your fence. Next, apply a wood brightener (available at any hardware store) which will restore the red color. Finally, don’t make the same mistake twice. Stain your fence and seal it with a polyurethane.
How long does it take for Cedar to dry out before staining?
But remember: Once your fence is installed, it can’t be treated right away. Cedar has to dry out before you stain it, which can take up to 5 weeks. Stain can drastically improve the longevity of your fence, so it is well worth the money!
How long does it take for cedar wood to stain?
It depends on your area and where your fence is in the ground. Sometimes its as early as 2 months, and other times it takes a year for the grey to set in. This is why stain is so necessary for your cedar wood. It keeps out the water, so those cells can keep doing their thing.
What happens to cedar after water is absorbed?
After the water finishes up its damage, UV rays come in to play. They dry out those natural juices the cedar produces, which kills the color of the wood. After that, the water is absorbed into the inner cells of the wood.
How long does cedar wood take to dry?
If you are working with a small area or are under a time crunch, you can use fans to speed the process up, placing them so they blow air over the wood. Plan to allow the wood to dry for at least 48 hours.
How long does cedar need to be outside before being finished?
Cedar, however, should not be finished right after it is installed or placed outside, but should be allowed to get used to the new environment for at least two weeks before being finished. Advertisement.
What is red cedar?
Cedar is a beautiful red wood, but can turn gray if not properly cared for. Cedar wood is a red-colored aromatic wood that can be used for decks, furniture, siding and even to line closets. According to Cedar Wood Information, what is commonly referred to as red cedar is actually a species of juniper that grows throughout North America north ...
How long does it take for cedar to stain?
If we were forced to give a time table we would recommend around 60 days. Also, how do you prepare cedar for staining?
How can I keep cedar from fading?
To prevent the cedar from fading to gray, you need to treat the fence with a stain that blocks ultraviolet light and contains a mildewcide. The stain should be transparent or semi-transparent to let the natural wood coloring show, and oil-based so the stain will penetrate into the wood.
How long should I wait to stain a cedar fence?
Do not stain a cedar fence for at least two months after installation. Instructions on application may vary with the type and brand of stain you choose, so always read the manufacturer's instructions. Use a pressure washer that operates at 1,500 PSI or less.
How can I prevent cedar from turning gray?
To prevent cedar from fading to gray, you need to seal cedar fence with a stain that blocks ultraviolet light and contains a mildewcide, according to Family Handyman. In terms of cedar fence stain colors and types of stains, the stain should be transparent or semi-transparent – ...
How often should I reapply cedar fence stain?
Reapply Stain as Necessary. Reapply the stain every one to five years, de pending on the type of stain, type of wood, sun exposure and the stain manufacturer's recommendation. Cedar fence stain colors and type of stain are also factors; a transparent stain may need reapplied yearly, while a semi-transparent stain may last three years.
How to make a fence with bleach?
Mix a solution of 1 cup bleach and 3 cups water in a bucket. Test a small , inconspicuous area of the fence with the solution to make sure the bleach does not discolor the wood. Dilute the solution further if necessary.
How do I spray a fence?
To spray fence with a pressure washer, start at the bottom and work your way toward the top. Use an even, wide spray, holding the washer tip about 18 inches from the surface . Move on to a new section of fence once the wood's color stops changing as you wash. According to United Fence and Deck, a psi of 1,500 to 2,000 and a 25-degree tip are best ...
