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Natural
Finish
Water-Repellents
Water-repellents and water-repellent preservatives
may be applied to cedar used above ground. These
formulations reduce water absorption in the short
term. The addition of a fungicide that inhibits
the growth of mildew and decay fungi will further
increase wood's durability.
A low-wax-content water-repellent preservative applied
to newly-milled cedar as a single-coat pre-treatment
before painting may help reduce discoloration caused
by bleeding of water-soluble extractives.
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Semi-Transparent
Stains
Semi-transparent stains may be latex or oil-based.
The semi-transparent nature of the stain, due to
its low solids content, does not block all ultraviolet
radiation and some will reach the wood's surface.
Latex stains do not penetrate the surface and are
not as durable.
Caution
Transparent, non-flexible, film-forming finishes
such as lacquer, shellac, urethane, and varnish
are not recommended for exterior use on cedar. Ultraviolet
radiation can penetrate the transparent film and
degrade the wood. Regardless of the number of coats,
the finish will eventually become brittle, develop
severe cracks and then fail.
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Natural appearance and protection
from moisture are advantages provided by penetrating
pigmented stains. Semi-transparent stains are more
durable than transparent finishes. |
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