The best coating choice for raw exterior Cedar is an Acrylic ( sometimes called Acrylic Latex ) or an Acrylic/oil stain. These stains come in two types, Solid and Semi Transparent. Solid stains hide more and will give the look of paint without the peeling problems. Semi Transparent stains will give a more natural look but will require more frequent re-applications.
Oil (Alkyd) based stains can also be used on raw Cedar, however , the oil base can produce an excessive mildew problem.
No primer is necessary for stain applications to raw Cedar or previously stained Cedar that has been power washed.
Never apply any PAINT ( PAINT IS NOT STAIN ) to raw Cedar without first applying an exterior oil based primer. Never apply paint to previously stained Cedar without first power washing and applying an oil based primer.( Note; peeling may still occur)
To avoid peeling problems stay with the same type (if not brand) of coating when re-application becomes necessary.
rmichael / pro painter
