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Wood clapboard siding needs frequent sealing to keep it in top condition—likely every two to three years. A sealant helps protect it from both moisture and sunlight damage. Your weather and climate will affect how often you need to seal the siding, but the pros recommend sealing it every couple of years. More durable woods in milder climates may not need to be sealed quite as often.

You cannot install clapboard siding on a bare, unprepared surface. Clapboard siding requires a clean, sturdy base made from plywood or similar materials, sometimes called backerboard. Then, it needs an underlayment or sheathing, a moisture membrane to help protect the exterior wall.

Note that sometimes clapboard siding is caulked as it’s installed for additional protection. We don’t suggest this: Caulking the siding can trap moisture inside the clapboards and lead to moisture damage over time. The siding needs some space to “breathe,” especially in rainy weather.

Signs that you need to replace your siding include siding that’s warping, bubbling, or cracking; signs of rot or mold growth; fading, peeling, or chipped siding or paint; or siding that’s separating from the exterior of your house. Failing to replace your siding when it’s damaged can lead to moisture problems or structural damage, so promptly repair or replace siding as soon as you notice any of these signs.

Oil-based stains are preferred over latex or water-based varieties because your home's cedar siding must constantly withstand the weather conditions in your location. These stains provide better penetration into the wood to more effectively protect it from UV rays and water infiltration. Oil-based stains are available in transparent, semi-transparent, opaque, or solid-color selections to achieve the look you desire.