Cedar Wood Siding
Installation in NYC

Why Cedar Siding is the Premium Choice for NYC Homes

Cedar wood siding offers unmatched natural beauty and authentic character that synthetic materials simply can't replicate. Popular in upscale neighborhoods throughout Great Neck, Douglaston Manor, Forest Hills Gardens, Park Slope, and Brooklyn Heights, cedar siding transforms homes with rich textures, natural grain patterns, and a timeless aesthetic.

While cedar requires more maintenance than vinyl or fiber cement, homeowners who value authenticity and classic architectural charm choose cedar for its warmth, character, and premium curb appeal.

Types of Cedar Siding We Install

Cedar Shingles & Shakes

The classic New England look — hand-split or sawn cedar shingles create dimensional texture and shadow lines.

• Cedar shingles: Sawn smooth, uniform thickness
• Cedar shakes: Hand-split, rustic appearance with irregular surfaces
• Exposure options: 5", 7", or 9" to weather (affects shadow lines)
• Best for: Cape Cod, cottage, shingle-style, coastal homes

Cedar Clapboard / Lap Siding

Traditional horizontal boards that overlap — the quintessential colonial and craftsman style.

• Board widths: 4", 6", 8", 10"
• Profiles: Bevel (tapered), rabbeted (overlap joint)
• Grades: Clear (no knots), Select (minimal knots), Knotty (rustic character)
• Best for: Colonial, craftsman, farmhouse, traditional homes

Cedar Board-and-Batten

Vertical siding with wide boards and narrow battens covering joints — modern farmhouse aesthetic.

• Board widths: Typically 8"-12" boards with 2"-3" battens
• Installation: Vertical orientation with board seams covered by battens
• Best for: Modern farmhouse, barn-style, contemporary homes

Cedar Tongue & Groove

Interlocking boards create tight, seamless appearance. Can be installed horizontally or vertically.

• Profiles: V-joint (creates V-groove at joints), shiplap (overlapping edge)
• Applications: Siding, accent walls, soffits, porch ceilings

Cedar Siding Advantages

Natural Beauty & Character

Real wood grain, warm tones, and authentic texture that synthetic products cannot match.

Excellent Insulation

Cedar has natural R-value of approximately 1.0 per inch — better thermal performance than vinyl.

Natural Resistance

• Rot resistance: Cedar contains natural oils (thujaplicins) that resist decay
• Insect resistance: Naturally resists termites and carpenter ants
• Moisture stability: Minimal warping and cupping when properly installed

Customizable Finish Options

• Natural weathering: Allow cedar to age naturally to silver-gray patina
• Stain: Semi-transparent or solid-color stains enhance grain while adding color
• Paint: Can be painted any color (though many prefer natural or stained)

Cedar Siding Maintenance Requirements

Cedar requires more maintenance than vinyl or fiber cement but rewards homeowners with unmatched beauty:

Initial Treatment

• Apply stain or sealer within 2-4 weeks of installation
• Use quality penetrating oil stains or clear water repellents
• Back-prime all boards before installation (moisture barrier)

Ongoing Maintenance

• Re-stain every 3-5 years (varies by exposure, stain quality)
• Inspect annually for loose boards, split shingles, or damaged areas
• Clean periodically — remove dirt, mildew, algae with mild cleaner
• Trim vegetation to maintain 6"-12" clearance from siding

Cedar Siding Cost in NYC

Cedar is a premium material with higher upfront costs but excellent long-term value:

• Cedar shingles/shakes: $10-$15 per square foot installed
• Cedar clapboard: $8-$14 per square foot installed
• Cedar board-and-batten: $9-$13 per square foot installed

Prices include materials, labor, fasteners, building paper, flashing, and trim. Does not include removal of existing siding.

Cedar Grades & Quality

Clear Grade (Premium)

• No knots or minimal pin knots
• Uniform color and grain
• Best appearance, highest cost
• Recommended for prominent façades

Select Grade

• Small, tight knots allowed
• Excellent appearance with character
• Most popular choice — balance of cost and aesthetics

Knotty Grade (Rustic)

• Larger knots, color variation
• Rustic, cabin-style appearance
• More affordable option

Best Practices for Cedar Siding in NYC

Proper Installation Critical

• Correct nail placement: Stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized nails
• Expansion gaps: Allow for seasonal expansion/contraction
• Weather barrier: Quality housewrap or building paper behind siding
• Flashing: Proper flashing at all penetrations and transitions
• Ventilation: Air space behind siding to prevent moisture trapping

Finish Application

• Apply stain/sealer to all six sides of each board (back, front, edges)
• Use quality exterior stains designed for cedar
• Apply in dry conditions with temperatures above 50°F

Why Choose Prime One for Cedar Siding?

• Cedar Installation Expertise: Trained in proper cedar installation techniques
• Quality Materials: We source premium Western Red Cedar from trusted suppliers
• Proper Fastening: Stainless steel nails, correct spacing, no face-nailing
• Licensed & Insured: NYC contractor license, full insurance coverage
• Attention to Detail: Proper flashing, trim work, and finishing