Finding the right exterior finish and siding to mimic or complement cedar can boost curb appeal while protecting your home from the elements. This guide reviews five top picks that work well on exterior vertical applications, including semi-transparent stains, solid finishes, and cedar-look vinyl options. Each recommended product is evaluated for durability, weather resistance, and ease of installation, helping you choose a solution that fits your climate and maintenance preferences.
| Product | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Olympic WaterGuard 11.75 oz Woodland Cedar | Semi-Transparent Stain & Sealer | Natural cedar look with protection |
| Flood Easy Seal 1 gal Natural Cedar | Oil-Based Wood Finish & Sealer | One-coat finish with deep penetration |
| Polaris Homeside Select Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding (Granite Gray) | Vinyl Siding | Low maintenance cedar shake look |
| Polaris Homeside Select Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding (Savannah Wicker) | Vinyl Siding | Color variety with authentic texture |
| Sikkens ProLuxe Log & Siding 077 Cedar | Wood Finish | High solids, UV protection, flexibility |
Note: All product details come from listed features and descriptions. Choose based on whether you prefer a natural cedar look with stain protection, a high-durability vinyl option, or a wood-finish coating for a traditional exterior. The following sections provide deeper dives into each product.
Olympic WaterGuard Cedar Stain & Sealer
Olympic WaterGuard 11.75 oz Woodland Cedar offers a ready mix, ready-to-use semi-transparent wood stain and sealer in one. It provides waterproof protection for exterior wood surfaces such as decks and fences, delivering a resistant stain coating with a seal. Ideal for vertical cedar siding projects where a natural cedar tone is desired while maintaining weather resistance. This product reduces maintenance frequency by combining coloring and sealing in a single application, which can simplify exterior staining projects for homeowners and contractors alike. Possible application considerations include ensuring even coverage and allowing adequate drying time between coats if a second coat is recommended by the manufacturer.
Flood Easy Seal Natural Cedar Finish
Flood Easy Seal 1 gal Natural Cedar Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Finish combines premium oil-based wood finish with a sealer, designed for a one-coat application. The finish is fortified with a PENETROL additive to promote deep penetration for a flawless appearance. It minimizes runs, laps, and back-brushing, contributing to a smooth, uniform look on vertical cedar siding. This product suits projects where rapid protection is required and a traditional cedar color is preferred, offering enhanced depth and UV protection to preserve the wood’s natural warmth.
Polaris Homeside Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding Granite Gray
Polaris Homeside Select Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding Granite Gray uses a Tru-Lock locking system to ensure secure installation with random seams that mimic natural cedar shakes. It provides a low-maintenance exterior option that resists fading and does not require staining or sealing. The product is sold in boxes with a coverage rate designed for exterior vertical siding applications, delivering a durable cedar-inspired look with consistent color and texture. Its lightweight vinyl composition reduces installation effort and ongoing maintenance needs, making it suitable for homeowners seeking long-term ease of care.
Polaris Homeside Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding Savannah Wicker
The Savannah Wicker option from Polaris Homeside Select Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding expands color choices for exterior cedar-appearing vinyl siding. With the same Tru-Lock locking system and textured finish that mirrors real cedar shakes, this option offers versatile aesthetics for modern homes while retaining the low-maintenance benefits of vinyl siding. It is well-suited for homeowners who desire a cedar-inspired appearance without the upkeep of real wood and without staining every few years.
Sikkens ProLuxe Log & Siding 077 Cedar
Sikkens ProLuxe Log & Siding 077 Cedar is a high solids alkyd wood finish designed for exterior siding, offering translucent iron oxide pigments and UV absorbers to protect cedar from sun damage. Its microporosity and excellent flexibility help maintain adhesion and resist cracking on vertical surfaces subjected to temperature changes and weather exposure. This finish is suited for homeowners who want a premium, durable coating that preserves the wood’s warmth while delivering long-term color retention and weather protection.
Siding Mounting Block and Accessories
While not a siding itself, the Siding Mounting Block kit by Dremica supports proper installation of vertical siding and fixtures. It features a textured surface with durable plastic construction and paint-ready finish to match vinyl or cedar exteriors. Easy to install and designed for 1/2 inch lap siding, this kit helps ensure clean, professional mounting for exterior lighting or small fixtures, while providing weather-resistant sealing when combined with proper caulking and sealing methods.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations for Exterior Cedar Siding
- Material type and appearance: Decide between real-wood finishes (olympic stain, Flood sealer, Sikkens) for authentic cedar look and natural aging versus vinyl cedar shake siding for low maintenance and consistent appearance.
- Durability and weather resistance: Consider UV protection, water resistance, and flexibility to accommodate expansion and contraction with temperature changes.
- Application and maintenance: One-coat finishes can save time, while paints and stains may require periodic re-coating. Vinyl siding offers longer intervals between maintenance but may lack the richness of wood finishes.
- Color stability and realism: Choose products with color options and realistic textures if you want a faithful cedar appearance on vertical siding.
- Installation considerations: For vinyl siding, confirm compatibility with your home’s wall structure and existing trim. For wood finishes, ensure proper surface preparation and drying times between coats.
- Environmental and safety factors: Oil-based finishes may have higher VOC content; assess environmental impact and indoor air quality during application, as well as popcorn or air-drying requirements.
- Local climate fit: Harsh winters, high humidity, or coastal salt exposure may influence the choice of sealer, stain, or vinyl siding with stronger warranties and longer lifespans.
- Warranty and brand support: Review manufacturer warranties, color retention guarantees, and availability of color-matching or touch-up products for future maintenance.
Together these considerations help homeowners choose between a traditional cedar look with protective finishes and a low-maintenance vinyl alternative, balancing aesthetics, budget, and long-term upkeep. When evaluating products, test a small area to ensure color and finish meet expectations before committing to a full exterior application.