Answering the buyer’s search for high-quality western red cedar weatherboards, this guide highlights five top options ideal for durable exterior siding and visually appealing reveal. Best for homeowners, builders, and DIY enthusiasts seeking natural rot resistance, stable performance, and a classic cedar look. The featured products range from resquared, rebutted grooved shingles to primed and primed-sanded finishes, offering various installation styles and price points. Below is a quick comparison of the picked products to help you decide at a glance.
| Product | Type | Size/Exposure | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Red Cedar 18″ Resquared & Rebutted Grooved Sidewall Shingles 1/2 Square cartons | Grooved Shingles | 18″ / 14″ exposure (approx) | Traditional curb appeal, precise fit |
| 24″ x 3/4″ Western Red Cedar #1 Grade Heavy Handsplit Shakes | Shakes | 24″ x 3/4″ | Rustic, natural texture, larger area coverage |
| 18″ #1 Perfections Western Red Cedar Shingles – CERTI‑Grade | Shingles | 18″ | Minimal knots, CVG appearance, premium finish |
| Western Red Cedar 18″ Resquared & Rebutted Primed Sanded sidewall Shingles Full Square Cartons | Primed Shingles | 18″ | Ready-to-paint look, fast prep |
| Western Red Cedar 18″ Certigrade Prime White Grooved Resquared & Rebutted Shingles 1/2 Square Box | Grooved Shingles | 18″ | Clean, modern finish with consistent look |
Western Red Cedar 18″ Resquared & Rebutted Grooved Sidewall Shingles
Product type: Grooved sidewall shingles crafted from premium western red cedar. The resquared and rebutted (R&R) process ensures precise fit and professional alignment during installation. Best for traditional siding that requires clean joints and a natural cedar color that ages gracefully.
Best for: Homeowners or builders prioritizing accurate coverage, shadow lines, and a classic cedar appearance. The R&R finish helps minimize gaps and enhances visual uniformity on exterior walls.
Why selected: This option’s exacting fit and machine grooved face texture deliver a refined look with dependable consistency across installations.
Caution: Look for proper acclimation and installation to prevent warping in variable climates; cedar can react to moisture and temperature changes.
24″ x 3/4″ Western Red Cedar #1 Grade Heavy Handsplit Shakes
Product type: Handsplit shakes sized at 24 inches long and 3/4 inch thick. Coverage details indicate 20.56 square feet at a 10-inch exposure with varying width from 3/4″ to 1″.
Best for: Projects seeking a rugged, natural, textured cedar look with pronounced grain and shadow lines. Particularly well-suited for rustic or traditional exterior designs.
Why selected: Handsplit shakes provide a distinctive, dimensional texture that enhances curb appeal and weathering patterns—great for standout cedar authenticity.
Caution: The irregular thickness may require more precise planning and installation alignment to ensure even rows and consistent exposure across runs.
18″ #1 Perfections Western Red Cedar Shingles
Product: CERTI‑Grade, clear vertical grain, kiln-dried shingles. Features include minimal knots, CVG appearance, and uniform dimensions for a clean finish.
Best for: Projects requiring premium appearance with minimal defects, ideal for high-end siding and roofing where a refined, uniform cedar finish is desired.
Why selected: The CVG, kiln-dried, and uniform 18-inch size offer a consistently premium surface and easier installation with predictable results.
Caution: Higher grade materials can carry a higher price point; ensure compatibility with local climate and maintenance plans to maximize longevity.
Western Red Cedar 18″ Resquared & Rebutted Primed Sanded Sidewall Shingles
Product: 18″ resquared and rebutted shingles that are primed and sanded for a ready-to-paint finish. Box specifics indicate 100 square feet per box at 14″ exposure and 50 square feet per bundle at 7″ exposure.
Best for: Projects where a painted or stained finish is planned, reducing field prep time and ensuring a smooth base for color adhesion.
Why selected: Primed and sanded surface minimizes prep labor and yields a uniform, clean appearance after painting, particularly on modern exteriors.
Caution: Primed surfaces can be sensitive to moisture during storage—proper drying is essential before installation to avoid warping.
Western Red Cedar 18″ Certigrade Prime White Grooved Shingles
Product: Prime White grooved, resquared and rebutted shingles with 18-inch length. The box is sized for 50 square feet at 14″ exposure and 25 square feet at 7″ exposure with random widths.
Best for: Projects seeking a bright, clean cedar finish with consistent grooved texture that can be painted or stained to desired color tones.
Why selected: The combination of grooved detailing and CertiGrade quality supports a polished exterior with fewer defects and predictable installation results.
Caution: White primed surfaces may show color shifts if not properly maintained; ensure proper sealing and protective finishes to guard against UV exposure.
Buying Guide
What size and exposure should you choose?
- 18-inch shingles and grooved profiles provide a classic look with consistent coverage and easier detailing on medium-to-large homes.
- Exposure (the visible width of each board) influences the amount of cedar surface exposed to the elements. Larger exposures cover more area but may require longer installation planning.
Grade and appearance: How to pick
- CERTI‑GRADE or #1 grade options emphasize minimal knots and uniform texture, ideal for a refined appearance.
- CVG (Clear Vertical Grain) cedar offers stability and rot resistance; may come at a premium but yields superior long-term aesthetics.
- Heavily handsplit or rustic shakes provide pronounced texture and a natural look, suitable for rustic or traditional designs.
Finish decisions: Primed, painted, or natural
- Primed or primed-sanded surfaces reduce field prep and are best for paint-ready exteriors.
- Natural or stained cedar preserves the true wood tone and develops a weathered patina over time.
- Consider climate and maintenance schedule when choosing between natural and primed finishes.
Installation considerations
- Acclimate cedar to local conditions before installation to minimize warping.
- Follow proper nailing patterns and spacing to maintain alignment, especially with resquared and rebutted profiles.
- Match the product type (grooved vs. non-grooved) to your desired siding look and installation method.
Maintenance and longevity
- Regular cleaning and periodic resealing or repainting extend cedar life and preserve color.
- Cedar is naturally rot-resistant but still benefits from proper ventilation and drainage behind siding.
FAQ
- Q: Are western red cedar weatherboards suitable for coastal environments? A: Yes, cedar offers natural rot resistance, but proper sealing, ventilation, and maintenance are essential in moist, salty conditions.
- Q: What is the advantage of primed cedar shingles? A: Primed surfaces reduce field prep, provide a ready-to-paint finish, and promote uniform color after application.
- Q: How does exposure affect performance? A: Greater exposure increases cedar surface area for UV exposure and weathering; use appropriate finishes and maintenance schedules.
- Q: Which grade is best for interior-grade appearance? A: CERTI‑GRADE or #1 grade options minimize knots and defects for a clean, finished exterior look.
- Q: Can I mix different cedar products on the same project? A: It’s possible, but consistency in grade, finish, and profile is recommended for a cohesive appearance.