Cedar Siding in the Wet Valley
Cedar siding costs about 9 to 16 dollars per square foot installed and offers a warm, natural look that no other material matches. The trade off in the wet valley is upkeep. Cedar needs regular sealing or staining and is prone to moss, rot, and insect damage on shaded, damp walls. Engineered wood gives a similar look with far less maintenance.
Cedar siding cost and styles
Cedar is a premium natural product, priced above vinyl, engineered wood, and most fiber cement.
| Cedar style | Cost per sq ft installed |
|---|---|
| Bevel or lap | 9 to 14 dollars |
| Shingle or shake | 11 to 16 dollars |
| Board and batten | 10 to 15 dollars |
Pros and cons in a wet climate
Cedar's beauty and natural character are unmatched, and it can last decades when maintained. But the valley's moisture and shade are hard on it. Without regular sealing, cedar grows moss, absorbs water, and can rot or attract insects. It is the highest maintenance siding you can choose here.
- Pro: warm, natural look with real grain
- Pro: long life when properly maintained
- Con: needs sealing or staining every few years
- Con: moss, rot, and insect risk on shaded wet walls
- Con: highest maintenance of the common sidings
A lower maintenance alternative
If you love the cedar look but not the upkeep, engineered wood like LP SmartSide gives a very similar wood grain with far better moisture and insect resistance and a factory finish. Fiber cement can also be made to mimic cedar shingles. Both are better suited to the wet valley than natural cedar for most homeowners.
Frequently asked questions
How much does cedar siding cost?
About 9 to 16 dollars per square foot installed, making it one of the priciest siding options, above vinyl, engineered wood, and most fiber cement.
Is cedar siding good for wet climates?
Cedar can work but needs regular sealing and is prone to moss and rot on shaded, damp valley walls. Engineered wood offers a similar look with less upkeep.
How long does cedar siding last?
20 to 40 years or more when properly maintained, but far less if it is not sealed and kept clear of moss in the wet valley.
What looks like cedar but lasts longer?
Engineered wood like LP SmartSide gives a similar wood grain with better moisture resistance and a factory finish, and some fiber cement mimics cedar shingles.