• By LADA Exteriors
• In Renovation

Portland Home’s with Cedar Siding – A Look That’s Become Timeless

There’s something undeniably classic about cedar shake siding. It evokes the warmth of a Pacific Northwest cabin, the charm of a historic Craftsman bungalow, and the elegance of coastal-inspired design—all in one. In Portland, where homeowners value character and natural materials, cedar shake siding continues to be a top choice for timeless curb appeal.

At LADA Exteriors, we’ve installed cedar siding on homes from Lake Oswego to the West Hills, and it never fails to turn heads. Whether you’re restoring an older home or designing a custom build, cedar shakes offer beauty, texture, and a strong connection to the natural environment. Let’s explore the benefits, care tips, and design inspiration behind this enduring favorite.

Why Portland Homeowners Love Cedar Shake Siding

Cedar shakes—cut from Western Red Cedar—have long been a go-to siding material in the Pacific Northwest. And for good reason.

First and foremost, cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, rot, and insects. This is critical in Portland’s rainy, damp climate, where other wood materials might quickly deteriorate. Cedar contains natural oils and tannins that help it stand up to the elements with less warping, cupping, or decay than untreated woods.

Beyond durability, cedar offers rich, organic texture and architectural depth. Each shake has a slightly different grain pattern and hue, creating a one-of-a-kind look that adds warmth and charm. While other materials can imitate wood, nothing compares to the real thing—and cedar is in a league of its own.

Cedar shake siding also complements many of Portland’s architectural styles, from rustic Craftsman homes and mid-century ranches to contemporary farmhouse designs. Whether you want to clad an entire home in shakes or use them as an accent on gables or dormers, cedar siding is incredibly versatile.

Also Consider Cedar Beveled Siding (Clapboard or Lap Siding)

While cedar shakes bring timeless texture and natural variation, another beautiful option is cedar beveled siding—also known as clapboard or lap siding. This style features long, horizontally oriented planks that overlap slightly, creating clean lines and distinctive shadowing.

Cedar lap siding delivers the same durability and natural resistance to Portland’s wet weather, while offering a more structured, uniform aesthetic. It’s ideal for Colonial, Craftsman, and contemporary home styles and pairs especially well with modern design elements like black window frames and minimalist trim.

Many homeowners choose to combine the two styles: cedar shakes on gables and dormers, with beveled siding on the main walls. This mixed-siding approach adds visual interest and brings out architectural details, all while maintaining the charm and longevity of real cedar.

At LADA Exteriors, we install both shake and clapboard siding using top-grade Western Red Cedar, helping homeowners match their style and budget without compromising quality.

Cedar Siding Maintenance Tips for the Wet Climate in the Pacific Northwest

While cedar is a durable material, it does require regular maintenance to retain its natural beauty and structural integrity—especially in a region like ours where moisture is a year-round concern.

Keep it Clean
At least once a year, it’s important to clean your cedar siding with a gentle pressure wash or soft-bristle brush. This removes moss, mildew, pollen, and other organic buildup that can trap moisture or lead to staining. Avoid harsh chemicals or high-pressure settings, which can damage the wood.

Stain or Seal Regularly
To maintain cedar’s longevity and protect it from UV rays and moisture intrusion, we recommend applying a semi-transparent stain or clear wood preservative every 3 to 5 years. This not only enhances the wood’s natural grain, but also provides a protective barrier against mold and warping.

Some homeowners choose to let cedar weather naturally to a silvery gray—a look that works beautifully on coastal or rustic homes. Even then, it’s wise to apply a UV-inhibiting sealant to prevent water absorption and decay.

Watch for Damage and Gaps
Over time, any wood siding can develop small gaps or splits. Portland’s freeze-thaw cycles can contribute to expansion and contraction, which stresses the material. A quick seasonal inspection can help catch early signs of wear. Replacing cracked shakes, sealing joints, and ensuring proper flashing around windows and doors will keep your cedar siding performing at its best.

Design Inspiration: Modern Takes on a Classic Material

Cedar shake siding isn’t just for rustic homes anymore. Thanks to evolving design trends and installation techniques, homeowners across Portland are using cedar in creative new ways.

Rustic Meets Modern
One of the most exciting trends is blending cedar with modern architecture. For example, pairing stained cedar shake siding with sleek metal trim, black windows, and minimalist landscaping creates a striking contrast between natural texture and contemporary lines.

Mixed-Material Exteriors
Cedar also works beautifully alongside materials like fiber cement, stucco, or stone. Try using cedar shakes on upper gables with James Hardie lap siding below to add dimension and highlight architectural details. This is a particularly effective look on split-levels, Cape Cods, or Northwest contemporary homes.

Dark and Dramatic
For those looking to make a bold statement, dark-stained cedar shakes—think espresso or charcoal tones—are gaining popularity. These finishes accentuate the grain and add a dramatic, modern twist that still feels rooted in nature.

Traditional Elegance
Of course, there’s no substitute for the classic charm of warm-toned cedar with white trim and a welcoming front porch. It’s a look that never goes out of style—and fits seamlessly into Portland’s historic neighborhoods.

At LADA Exteriors, we collaborate with homeowners and designers to tailor cedar shake installations to each property’s unique style, whether that means traditional hand-split shakes or more uniform machine-sawn panels.

Pairing cedar shake siding with black-trim vinyl windows or wood-clad new windows can create a dramatic contrast that feels both rustic and modern—perfect for Portland’s evolving home styles.

We also offer window replacement services, allowing you to update both your siding and windows in one seamless project, ensuring long-term protection and consistent style.

Western Red Cedar beveled siding, also known as cedar clapboard or lap siding.

Why Choose LADA Exteriors for Your Cedar Siding Installation?

Cedar siding requires experience to install properly. From spacing and ventilation to flashing and fasteners, getting the details right is crucial to your home’s long-term protection. At LADA Exteriors, we’ve built a reputation for precision craftsmanship and honest, high-quality work throughout the Portland metro area.

We source premium-grade Western Red Cedar and offer a variety of finishes and profiles to match your vision. Our team is skilled in both full-scale shake siding and accent applications, ensuring a result that’s not only beautiful but built to last.

Whether you’re restoring a historic home in Irvington or creating a showstopper in West Linn, we bring decades of experience and local expertise to every project.

Get Inspired. Get in Touch.

If you’re exploring options for high-quality siding in Portland, cedar shake siding remains one of the most beautiful and enduring choices available. With proper installation and thoughtful maintenance, it can protect your home and elevate its curb appeal for decades.

At LADA Exteriors, we specialize in helping Portland-area homeowners choose the right cedar siding—whether shake or beveled lap—and bring their vision to life with precision craftsmanship.

Contact us today for a free siding replacement consultation, and let’s create an exterior that feels timeless and natural.