Your Cedar Siding Isn’t Ruined—It’s Just Dirty
That beautiful cedar shake siding that made your home stand out? It might be looking a little rough around the edges right now—but don’t worry, it’s not beyond saving.
Discoloration, streaks, and weathered patches might look like serious damage, but in most cases, it’s just built-up organic matter: dirt, pollen, mildew, and the natural wear of Long Island weather. Before you call a contractor for a costly replacement, consider this: a gentle, professional cleaning might be all it takes to make it look brand new again.
Why Cedar Siding Ages the Way It Does
Cedar is one of the most beautiful natural siding materials out there—but it’s also one of the most exposed. It absorbs moisture, traps grime, and fades in sunlight. If left untreated, these conditions cause it to lose color and texture. That doesn’t mean your siding is “damaged”—it means it needs a reset.
Cedar doesn’t respond well to traditional pressure washing. The wood is soft, and high pressure can gouge, splinter, or fray the fibers. What you need is a safer solution designed with cedar in mind—like the soft washing process used by Exoclean’s House Washing Services.
Cleaning Cedar Siding Without Ruining It
We use a gentle soft washing method—a low-pressure application of biodegradable cleaning solutions that safely remove organic buildup without harming the wood. It works like this:
The solution breaks the bond between dirt, mildew, and the wood.
Low-pressure water rinses it clean without damaging the surface.
The cedar’s natural tone and texture are restored without stripping or scraping.
This process not only revives the look—it helps prevent long-term rot and extends the life of the siding.
What About Painted Cedar?
If your cedar siding is painted or stained, cleaning still matters. Paint fades, peels, and traps dirt, giving your home a neglected look. A proper wash revives the color, removes surface debris, and preps the siding for any touch-ups you’re planning.
💡 Pro Tip: If you plan to repaint or restain your cedar siding, a soft wash is the best way to prep it—ensuring new paint adheres smoothly and lasts longer.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
We get it—DIY is tempting. But cedar is delicate. Harsh chemicals, too much pressure, or the wrong brush can do more harm than good. One wrong move, and you’re looking at sanding, patching, or even replacing sections of siding.
If you do try to clean it yourself:
Use low pressure only.
Avoid bleach or high-pH products that can dry out the wood.
Work in sections and rinse thoroughly to prevent streaks or residue.
Use a soft blue bristle brush on a telescopic pole—and always scrub with the grain.
Still, your safest option? Hiring a professional who knows how to care for cedar without compromising its natural look.
Final Thoughts: A Clean Home Tells a Better Story
Whether you're staying long-term or planning to sell, clean cedar siding sends a message: this home is cared for.
It’s one of the first things buyers and neighbors notice, and one of the easiest ways to elevate your curb appeal. You don’t have to replace your siding—you just have to reveal the beauty that’s been hiding underneath the grime.
📞 Ready to Bring Your Cedar Siding Back to Life?
Call Exoclean today for professional cedar siding cleaning in Suffolk County. We treat your home like it’s our own—carefully, thoroughly, and with real results. You can also explore more services on our Home Page or check out what your neighbors are saying on our Google Business Profile.