Cedar Siding Restoration in Ontario: Repair or Replace?

If your home has cedar siding and you’re starting to see signs of wear, you’re not alone. Every year, we hear from Ontario homeowners asking:

“Should I repair or replace my cedar siding?”

At JD Wood Revival, we’ve helped restore cedar siding on homes across Southern Ontario – from Toronto to Niagara, and beyond. Many of these homes were built in the 1970s and 80s, when cedar was widely used—but even newer homes with vinyl siding are showing signs of aging.

Let’s look at when cedar siding restoration is the smart choice—and when it’s time to consider replacement.

 

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🔍 Why Cedar Siding Fails (and How to Prevent It)

Cedar is a premium product known for its durability, but it requires ongoing maintenance to stay that way. Most siding failure comes down to:

• UV degradation and fading

• Water infiltration from failed caulking or flashing

• Neglected paint or stain

• Improper installation (e.g., siding installed too close to rooflines or decks)

According to the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association, cedar siding should be stained or painted every 3–7 years, depending on climate and exposure ¹. In Southern Ontario, where UV and humidity are high, 6 years is the realistic upper limit.

Pro tip: Caulking around windows and joints should be inspected annually to prevent water from getting behind your siding ².

 

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🛠️ When to Restore Cedar Siding

If less than 15% of your siding is damaged, restoration is likely your best option. It’s more affordable than full replacement, retains your home’s original look, and is better for the environment.

Cedar restoration includes:

• Full inspection for damage

• Spot replacement of bad boards

• Power washing or sanding

• Fresh stain or paint application

• Caulking and sealing joints

Restoration typically costs 40–60% less than full replacement, depending on the condition and size of the home ³.

 

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❌ When It’s Time to Replace Cedar Siding

If more than 15–20% of the siding needs repair, it may be time to replace your cedar entirely. Why? Because once you commit to large-scale repair, you’re also committing to ongoing upkeep—and those costs add up.

 

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🏡 Ontario Climate: Cedar’s Friend and Foe

Ontario weather swings hard—icy winters, humid summers, and constant freeze-thaw cycles. Cedar can handle this, but only with regular care and water management.

We’ve restored siding in:

• Toronto

• Muskoka

• Brantford

• Port Dover

• Hamilton

• Niagara
  
  Each region comes with unique exposure to sun, wind, and moisture. That’s why choosing a contractor who understands local performance is just as important as choosing the right product.

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✅ Final Word: Repair or Replace?

Here’s a simplified rule:

• Repair/Restore if less than 15% of boards are damaged and you want to preserve your cedar’s beauty.

• Replace if damage is widespread, or if you want to lower your home’s long-term maintenance costs.

We’ll give you an honest assessment—no pressure. Our job is to revive what you have, or help you transition to something that performs better for your lifestyle and budget.

 

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📞 Get a Professional Cedar Siding Assessment

JD Wood Revival is Ontario’s trusted expert in cedar siding restoration and replacement. Whether you’re maintaining a heritage home or giving your exterior a fresh start, we’re here to help.

👉 Contact us today to schedule your free estimate.

 

 

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References

1. Western Red Cedar Lumber Association. Installation & Maintenance Guide. 

2. Fine Homebuilding Magazine. “How Caulking Fails—and How to Prevent It.”

3. HomeAdvisor. “Cost to Repair or Replace Wood Siding.” 

4. Angi. “Cost to Paint a House in Canada (2024 Guide).”