Q. Can cedar paneling be used outdoors?
A. In this business, paneling and siding speak more to whether it’s inside or outside rather then what the wood is. In other words if I use a T&G on the outside, we call it siding and if I use a T&G on the inside, we call it paneling. You do have to be careful about the finish. Interior paneling has a completely different finish then exterior. Also, you don’t want to use any pine outside no matter what.
Q. What grade of cedar is best for interior paneling?
A. The "best" is going to rest in the eye and Wallet of the beholder. Most of your cedar panels are a 'mill select with knots' grade. If your tastes are discerning and your wallet is fat you CAN use clear cedar on the inside- I’ve just never seen anybody do it.
Q. How does cedar paneling compare to pine?
A. They compare in a few different ways. You don’t necessarily have to treat cedar to put it up inside - as a matter of fact a lot of people don’t so they can keep the cedar scent as long as possible. You will want to finish pine because it's a lot more vulnerable than cedar. The other comparison is pine as a hell of a lot cheaper - probably half the price of cedar.
Q. Does cedar paneling need to be sealed for interior or exterior use?
A, Cedar paneling does not need to be sealed on the inside or the outside as a general rule if you take care of it. For exterior use cedar can be left to weather naturally and develop that classic silver patina. But if you’re not cleaning it once a year it could turn black and everybody hates that - so yes, you can leave it unsealed with the caveat that you should clean it and address anything that looks funny every year.
