Cedar siding. Just the phrase conjures images of rustic cabins nestled in the woods, charming coastal homes weathered by the sea, and sophisticated modern residences exuding natural elegance. But cedar siding is more than just a pretty face. It’s a durable, sustainable, and versatile material that can elevate the curb appeal of any home. If you’re considering cedar siding for your next project, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide is packed with cedar siding design ideas to inspire you and help you create the home of your dreams. We’ll explore different cedar types, profiles, finishes, and design styles, providing you with the knowledge and inspiration to make informed decisions.
Why Choose Cedar Siding?
Before we dive into the design ideas, let’s quickly recap why cedar siding is such a popular choice among homeowners and builders alike.
- Natural Beauty: Cedar boasts a rich, warm color and a distinctive grain pattern that adds character and visual interest to any home.
- Durability: Cedar is naturally resistant to decay, insects, and moisture, making it a long-lasting and low-maintenance siding option.
- Sustainability: Cedar is a renewable resource, and its production requires less energy than many other siding materials.
- Versatility: Cedar can be used in a variety of architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary.
- Insulation: Cedar provides excellent insulation, helping to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
- Curb Appeal: Cedar siding instantly boosts the curb appeal of your home, increasing its value and making it more attractive to potential buyers.
Types of Cedar Siding
Not all cedar is created equal. There are several different types of cedar siding, each with its own unique characteristics and price point. Here are some of the most common types:
- Western Red Cedar: This is the most popular type of cedar siding, known for its rich color, durability, and resistance to decay. It’s a relatively soft wood, making it easy to work with.
- Alaskan Yellow Cedar: Despite its name, Alaskan Yellow Cedar is actually a cypress. It’s a very durable and stable wood, making it a good choice for areas with high moisture levels. It has a lighter color than Western Red Cedar.
- Incense Cedar: This type of cedar is less common for siding, but it’s sometimes used for trim and accents. It has a reddish-brown color and a strong aroma.
- Eastern White Cedar: This cedar is lighter in color and less expensive than Western Red Cedar. It’s a good option for those on a budget, but it’s not as durable.
Cedar Siding Profiles
The profile of your cedar siding refers to the shape and style of the boards. Different profiles can create different looks and textures. Here are some popular cedar siding profiles:
- Bevel Siding: This is the most traditional type of cedar siding. Bevel siding boards are tapered, with one edge thicker than the other. They are installed horizontally, with the thicker edge overlapping the thinner edge of the board below. This creates a classic, timeless look.
- Shiplap Siding: Shiplap siding boards have a rabbeted edge that allows them to overlap and interlock. This creates a tight, weatherproof seal and a clean, modern look. Shiplap is often used for interior walls as well as exterior siding.
- Tongue and Groove Siding: Tongue and groove siding boards have a tongue on one edge and a groove on the other. The tongue of one board fits into the groove of the next, creating a seamless, interlocking surface. This type of siding is often used for ceilings and walls, but it can also be used for exterior siding.
- Board and Batten Siding: Board and batten siding consists of wide vertical boards with narrow strips of wood (battens) covering the seams. This creates a rustic, farmhouse-style look.
- Shake Siding: Shake siding is made from thick, hand-split cedar shingles. It has a rough, textured surface that adds character and visual interest to a home. Shake siding is often used on gables or as an accent material.
- Shingle Siding: Shingle siding is similar to shake siding, but the shingles are thinner and more uniform in size. Shingle siding can be installed in a variety of patterns, such as straight rows, staggered rows, or decorative patterns.
- Channel Siding: Channel siding features a unique profile with a channel or groove cut into each board. This creates a shadow line effect and adds visual depth to the siding.
Cedar Siding Finishes
The finish you choose for your cedar siding will affect its appearance, durability, and maintenance requirements. Here are some common cedar siding finishes:
- Natural Finish: A natural finish allows the cedar to weather naturally, turning a silvery-gray color over time. This is a low-maintenance option, but it does require periodic cleaning to prevent mildew and algae growth.
- Transparent Stain: A transparent stain allows the natural grain and color of the cedar to show through. It provides some protection from the elements, but it needs to be reapplied every few years.
- Semi-Transparent Stain: A semi-transparent stain adds a hint of color while still allowing the grain of the cedar to be visible. It provides more protection than a transparent stain and requires less frequent reapplication.
- Solid Stain: A solid stain completely covers the cedar, providing the most protection from the elements. It’s a good option for those who want to change the color of their siding or who want a more uniform look.
- Paint: While not as common as stain, paint can be used on cedar siding. However, it’s important to use a high-quality exterior paint that is specifically designed for wood. Paint requires more maintenance than stain and is more likely to peel or crack.
- Oil Finish: Oil finishes penetrate the wood, providing protection from within. They enhance the natural beauty of the cedar and are relatively easy to apply. However, they require more frequent reapplication than other finishes.
Cedar Siding Design Ideas by Style
Now for the fun part! Let’s explore some cedar siding design ideas based on different architectural styles.
Rustic Cabin
For a rustic cabin look, consider using rough-sawn cedar siding with a natural finish. Board and batten siding or shake siding would also be a great choice. Use dark, earthy colors for the trim and accents. Add a stone chimney and a covered porch to complete the look.
- Siding: Rough-sawn cedar, board and batten, or shake siding
- Finish: Natural finish or dark stain
- Trim: Dark, earthy colors
- Accents: Stone chimney, covered porch
Coastal Cottage
For a charming coastal cottage, opt for shingle siding or clapboard siding painted in a light, airy color. White trim and blue accents will enhance the coastal feel. Add a wraparound porch and some nautical-themed decor to complete the look.
- Siding: Shingle siding or clapboard siding
- Finish: Light, airy color (white, light blue, light gray)
- Trim: White
- Accents: Blue accents, wraparound porch, nautical decor
Modern Farmhouse
The modern farmhouse style combines rustic charm with contemporary design. Use board and batten siding or shiplap siding painted in a neutral color, such as white or gray. Add black windows and a metal roof for a modern touch. A large front porch and some farmhouse-style lighting will complete the look.
- Siding: Board and batten siding or shiplap siding
- Finish: Neutral color (white, gray, beige)
- Trim: Black or white
- Accents: Black windows, metal roof, large front porch, farmhouse lighting
Contemporary Home
For a contemporary home, consider using horizontal cedar siding with a clean, minimalist profile. A dark stain or a natural finish will complement the modern aesthetic. Large windows and clean lines are essential elements of contemporary design.
- Siding: Horizontal cedar siding with a clean profile
- Finish: Dark stain or natural finish
- Trim: Minimalist trim in a neutral color
- Accents: Large windows, clean lines, metal accents
Craftsman Bungalow
Craftsman bungalows are known for their intricate details and natural materials. Use a combination of cedar siding profiles, such as shingle siding and board and batten siding. A warm, earthy color