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You should plan to stain or refinish your home's cedar siding every three to seven years to maintain its appearance and provide maximum protection, though some estimates suggest a range of four to six years. The exact frequency depends on several factors, including your local climate, exposure to severe weather like direct sunlight, rain, and wind, the quality of the initial stain application, the type of stain used, and the overall condition and quality of the wood.

For homes in harsh climates with high humidity and significant sun exposure, you should plan on staining as often as every three years, while those in milder locations may only need to do so every seven years. For the longest-lasting protection in particularly harsh climates, consider using an opaque stain.

If you are looking for a lower-maintenance alternative, you might consider vinyl or aluminum siding. While the initial installation cost can be higher, they do not require as much upkeep and can offer more value over time, especially in areas with excessive rainfall or high humidity.

Vinyl is the most common shingle siding due to its rigid PVC design, longevity, affordability, and ease of installation. The next most popular types of shingle siding are fiber cement, which is in the mid-range for prices, and cedar shake, which is the most expensive. Consider the upfront cost, ongoing maintenance costs, and durability in your specific climate before deciding.

There are several highly durable types of siding that you can build right on top of without removing it, with wood being one of them, provided it's in excellent condition. However, a common reason for siding replacement is to eliminate materials that are in poor condition, making installing new wood siding over old not recommended. Additionally, the cost of adding siding over existing siding can increase costs to between $7 and $13 per square foot.

You may only need to repaint fiber cement siding every decade or so, but you should clean it every six to 12 months, depending on your local climate. First, wash with a garden hose or similar low-pressure device (not a high-pressure washer, which can damage the material) to remove dirt and any large debris. Then, gently wipe down the surface with a soft brush or cloth in a side-to-side motion, following the grain of the fiber cement.