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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.

Contrary to popular belief, people still do use aluminum siding for their homes—but it’s much less popular than it was in the mid-1900s. The introduction of various types of vinyl siding as an affordable option reduced the demand for aluminum, which is prone to scratching and denting and needs to be repainted every five to 10 years. Given the abundance of house siding options, especially newer and more popular types like stone veneer siding, aluminum siding has simply just fallen out of favor.

Professional installers typically recommend caulking between siding boards, but it depends on the material. With Hardie board and fiber cement siding, manufacturers don't recommend adding caulk because it can trap moisture in the joints or discourage flexibility in fluctuating temperatures. Consult your local siding contractor about caulking best practices before adding any to your home’s exterior.

A self-etching primer is the best option for aluminum siding. These are specifically designed to bond with bare metals, among other surfaces, leading to better adhesion and corrosion resistance. An oil-based primer is a good alternative if you can’t find a self-etching primer.