Natural Cedar Siding & ShakesTimeless, Natural Wood Character
Nothing matches the warmth of real cedar. We install clapboard and shake cedar siding with proper back-priming and breathable sealants so the wood lasts in the New England climate.

Why Choose NorthForge for Cedar Siding?
Premium Grade Cedar
Tight-grain boards and shakes selected for stability and longevity.
Back-Priming & Sealing
All six sides sealed to resist moisture cupping and checking.
Breathable Rain Screen
Furring that lets the wall dry behind the cladding and extends wood life.
Custom Stain & Finish
Natural, semi-transparent, or solid finishes to match your home.
Deep-Dive: The Art of Installing Western Red Cedar Siding
There is no synthetic material that can match the warmth, texture, and classic character of real Western Red Cedar siding. Cedar shingles and clapboards have defined New England architecture for centuries. Cedar is naturally packed with organic oils that resist decay, rot, and wood-boring insects. However, modern cedar installations require careful moisture management to last.
A common mistake with cedar siding is sealing it only on the front face. When rain gets behind the wood, the unprimed back absorbs moisture, causing the boards to warp, cup, and push off their nails. We back-prime all six sides of every cedar board with oil-based primer before installation. We also install a rain-screen grid—a series of vertical furring strips that create a ventilated drying plane behind the cladding, letting water escape and extending the wood's life.
To help prevent rust stains, we use ring-shank stainless steel nails. Standard roofing or siding nails corrode when exposed to cedar's natural acids, leaving black streaks down the walls. Marine-grade stainless steel fasteners provide a clean, secure anchor that resists corrosion. Installed in accordance with applicable manufacturer specifications, project requirements, and local building codes.
System Characteristics & Metrics
How We Execute Cedar Siding
Our rigorous, step-by-step installation process ensures quality that lasts.
Six-Side Back Priming
Before installation, we prime all six sides of the cedar boards to block moisture.
Rain Screen Grid Prep
We install furring strips over the wrap to create a ventilated drying space.
Stainless Fastening
We nail cedar planks or shakes using ring-shank stainless steel nails to prevent rusting.
Staining Coating
We apply two coats of premium stain or clear sealer to protect the cedar from UV damage.
Premium Components We Install
We install quality roofing and siding products from trusted manufacturers, based on the needs, design, and specifications of each project.
Western Red Cedar
Natural WoodGrade A vertical-grain siding planks selected for dimensional stability.
316 Stainless Steel Nails
FastenersMarine-grade ring-shank nails that resist rust and wood staining.
Oil-Based Backer Primer
SealerMoisture-blocking primer preventing natural wood tannin bleeding.
Breathable Stain
Stain/SealerUV-blocking stain that allows natural wood moisture to escape.
Frequently Asked Service Questions
NorthForge Exteriors
We coordinate inspections and project sites throughout MetroWest, Greater Boston, and Worcester County. Reach out to schedule a free on-site visit.
Free On-Site Estimates
No pressure, no obligation. We respond within one business day with clear next steps and a free inspection.
Emergency roof tarping and urgent exterior repair services are available, subject to scheduling and crew availability.
