Hello,
Our house has, what we were told, old growth Canadian cedar siding. We stained it with Penofin’s Redwood originally. It is in need of restraining, but we don’t want a darker color. Penofin has a clear stain but say it doesn’t give much protection.
Are there any other stains that will not darken the color yet provide protection?
Thank you
Replies
ice
For the longest time, clear base exterior coatings have the disclaimer-won't hold up as long and one that is pigmented. Beats me why-but that is the story. So, it protects but recoat time is shorter.
You might find something from Sikkens that carries a better "warranty.
Pigments in the finish protect it from UV damage.
To expand on this..
Dan's right. The pigments actually protect the wood below from UV damage. UV deteriorates the lignins that glue the cellulose fibers together and make wood what it is. When the lignins deteriorate, the cellulose detaches and takes the finish above with it. Removing the loose cellulose fibers is why wood that has been exposed to UV for more than a few weeks (varies with the climate - Tucson is more severe than Seattle) should be sanded before being stained or painted.