Cedar shakes bring natural beauty to homes, but they require proper cleaning to preserve their appearance and longevity. This guide outlines a practical, safe approach using common tools and products, with emphasis on gentle cleaning to avoid damaging the wood.
Quick Answer
For most cedar shake cleaning tasks, start with a soft-bristle brush and a mild wood cleaner designed for cedar. Wash with a low-pressure sprayer or garden sprayer, rinse thoroughly, and repeat only if necessary. Avoid high-pressure washing on cedar shakes to prevent damage and splintering.
What You’ll Need
- cedar shake cleaning brush soft bristle
- wood cleaner for cedar shakes concentrate
- cedar shake cleaning spray bottle with wood detergent
- low pressure garden sprayer for cedar shake cleaning
- pressure washer detergent for cedar shakes
Before You Start
Prep the area by covering plants or landscaping and protecting windows or doors. Test a small, inconspicuous area of the cedar shake for colorfastness and surface reaction before applying cleaner widely. Wear eye protection and gloves, and work in mild weather with no plan to rain for at least 24 hours.
Safety cautions: Do not use bleach-based cleaners on cedar shakes; they can cause discoloration and damage. Avoid aggressive scrubbing that might gouge or roughen the surface.
Time estimate: 2–6 hours depending on the extent of staining and the size of the cedar shake area.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Cedar Shakes
- Inspect the cedar shakes for damaged areas and replace any severely weathered pieces before cleaning.
- Mix a concentrated wood cleaner for cedar shakes according to the product label in a cedar shake cleaning spray bottle with wood detergent for easy application.
- Fill a low pressure garden sprayer for cedar shake cleaning with the cleaner and apply to dampen the surface evenly.
- Allow the cleaner to dwell for 5–10 minutes to loosen dirt, mold, and mildew; do not let it dry on the surface.
- Use a cedar shake cleaning brush soft bristle to gently scrub in a circular motion, targeting any stubborn stains without applying excessive force.
- Rinse thoroughly with a low pressure garden sprayer for cedar shake cleaning or a hose using a gentle spray pattern. Avoid high-pressure streams that can scar the wood.
- For persistent stains, reapply the cleaner in small sections and repeat the scrubbing process, then rinse completely.
- Dry the cedar shakes naturally, ensuring good airflow around the surface. If needed, sweep or blow dry with a leaf blower set to cool air.
- Optional: If residue remains, apply a second light rinse and inspect for uniform cleanliness across the surface.
- Inspect after drying to determine if any spots require a second gentle cleaning pass; avoid repeated aggressive scrubbing.
- Consider applying a protective finish or stain according to manufacturer recommendations after the wood is fully dry to help resist future staining.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stains persist after cleaning | Mold or mildew deeply embedded | Spot-treat with a cedar-safe mold remover and repeat cleaning | Regular cleaning and ventilation to prevent moisture buildup |
| Bleaching or discoloration | Bleach-based products or harsh cleaners | Stop and rinse; switch to a cedar-safe cleaner | Test on a hidden area first |
| Wood fibers rough or damaged after cleaning | Scrubbing too hard or high-pressure rinse | Gentle brushing; use low-pressure rinse only | Use soft-bristle brush and appropriate pressure |
| Uneven color after cleaning | Uneven cleaning or sun exposure | Re-clean with consistent technique | Maintain even application across surfaces |
Common Mistakes
- Using a high-pressure washer on cedar shakes, which can gouge wood fibers
- Choosing a harsh chemical cleaner that fades or damages cedar
- Allowing cleaner to dry on the surface instead of rinsing promptly
- Scrubbing aggressively, causing scratches or raised grain
Tips For Best Results
- Test cleaners in a hidden area first to confirm colorfastness and finish compatibility
- Work from the bottom up to avoid dirty runoff staining cleaned areas
- Use a soft-bristle brush to lift dirt without harming the wood surface
- Rinse thoroughly and ensure complete drying before applying any sealant or stain
- Schedule annual or semiannual cleanings to prevent buildup and maintain cedar’s natural beauty
Call A Professional
Seek professional help if cedar shakes show extensive rot, soft spots, or structural damage. Stop cleaning projects if you notice large areas of delamination, suspect fungal growth beyond surface mold, or if cleaning could compromise the roof line or flashing. A pro can assess underlying issues and perform restoration with proper treatments and finishes.
FAQ
Can I use a pressure washer to clean cedar shakes?
Avoid high-pressure washing; use low pressure or a garden sprayer with a gentle rinse to prevent damage.
What cleaner is safe for cedar shakes?
Use a wood cleaner for cedar shakes concentrate designed specifically for cedar surfaces.
How often should cedar shakes be cleaned?
Most homes benefit from cleaning every 1–3 years, depending on climate and exposure to mildew and dirt.
Do I need to seal cedar shakes after cleaning?
Yes, after thorough drying and if weathered, applying a protective finish or stain helps preserve color and durability.
Is it okay to mix cleaners?
Avoid mixing cleaners; follow label directions for the specific product to prevent chemical reactions.
Buying Guide
When choosing tools and products for cleaning cedar shakes, consider size, ease of use, and compatibility with cedar. A soft-bristle brush is essential for gentle scrubbing, and a cedar-safe wood cleaner concentrates provides effective cleaning without harming the wood. A spray bottle keeps application controlled, while a low-pressure sprayer ensures even coverage without damage. For stubborn areas, a dedicated pressure washer detergent for cedar shakes can help, but always opt for low-pressure settings and test first. Size and layout of your siding will influence how much cleaner you need and how many applications are required. Noise, energy efficiency, and ease of storage also matter for regular maintenance routines. Consider a kit that includes a soft brush, cedar-safe cleaner, and a reusable sprayer to simplify future cleanings. If you have a large façade or multiple stories, evaluate whether a professional service offers value for high sections or persistent staining. Finally, verify that products are formulated for cedar and labeled safe for wood to avoid unintended damage.