5 Painful Mistakes Homeowners Make With Exterior Wood Siding

1. Choosing the Wrong Type of Exterior Wood Siding

Not all wood is created equal—especially when you live in a place like Winnipeg, where winters are long and unforgiving.

Cedar is your MVP. Lightweight. Insect-resistant. Warps less than other woods. Redwood is another top-tier contender, loved for its durability and natural oils that resist decay. Pine? Cheap, yes. But maintenance-heavy. And engineered wood? It’s a smart choice if you want the wood look without the wood upkeep.

The wrong choice now could cost you tens of thousands in repairs later.

Want a professional take on which siding works best for your home? Talk to our team.

exterior wood siding​

2. Skipping Proper Sealing and Staining (The Fastest Way to Rot)

Wood and moisture don’t mix. Yet homeowners keep treating their siding like it’s indestructible.

Leaving exterior wood siding untreated is like driving through a Winnipeg winter on summer tires—it’s only a matter of time before things go wrong. You need a high-quality sealant or stain to block moisture, UV rays, and insects. This isn’t a “nice-to-have.” It’s your first line of defense.

Every year you delay sealing is another year water sneaks in and damages what you can’t see.

At Integrity Painting, we only use premium products that are built to last in our harsh prairie climate. It’s the difference between siding that lasts 5 years… and 25.

Explore our residential painting services and finishes. See our transformations

3. Choosing Style Over Function (Yes, That Gorgeous Shingle Could Cost You)

There’s something charming about shake or shingle siding—until water seeps behind a misaligned corner and mold starts to grow.

Board-and-batten siding offers strong vertical lines and great weather protection. Clapboard siding is a classic horizontal choice that repels moisture well when properly installed. Want a cabin feel? Log siding offers rustic vibes but demands commitment when it comes to sealing and maintenance.

Prioritizing beauty over durability is one of the most expensive design decisions homeowners make.

Need help comparing siding types for your build? Learn more about us and our process

exterior wood siding​

4. DIY Painting Without Understanding Wood’s Needs

We get it. You watched a couple of tutorials. You bought the “good stuff.” But painting exterior wood siding is not a weekend warrior job.

Here’s why:

  • The wood grain affects how paint or stain is absorbed
  • Weather matters—you need the right temperature and humidity
  • Improper priming leads to peeling, blistering, and flaking within months

Our experienced painters know how to prep, prime, and finish real wood surfaces—so your siding not only looks flawless but stays protected for years.

Even the best product fails if it’s applied the wrong way.

Ready to leave it to the pros? Request your quote today

5. Neglecting Ongoing Maintenance (Until It’s Too Late)

Even the best wood siding in the world needs regular TLC. That means:

  • Washing your siding every spring to remove grime
  • Repainting or staining every 5–7 years (depending on your product)
  • Checking for soft spots, peeling paint, or warping boards
  • Sealing gaps before moisture finds its way in

Think of it like dental care. You don’t wait until a toothache becomes a root canal. You keep up the maintenance so the pain never arrives. The same logic applies to your siding.

One missed season of maintenance can undo years of protection.

Want to extend the life of your exterior wood siding? Let us inspect and recommend the best treatment

exterior wood siding​

What’s the Best Type of Exterior Wood Siding?

If you’re wondering which exterior wood siding option truly holds up in Manitoba, here’s a quick breakdown:

Type Durability Maintenance Ideal For
Cedar High Moderate Residential homes, modern or rustic
Engineered Wood Very High Low Budget-conscious homeowners
Redwood High Moderate High-end projects, natural aesthetics
Pine/Spruce Low-Med High Short-term or cost-sensitive builds
Log/Tongue & Groove High High Cottages, statement homes

Winnipeg homeowners often choose cedar for its local availability, insulation properties, and long-term value. Engineered wood is rising in popularity for those seeking a lower-maintenance alternative that mimics natural wood grain.

Our expert team can help you weigh cost, performance, and longevity—no guesswork needed.

FAQs: Exterior Wood Siding

How long does wood siding last?
Properly maintained wood siding (like cedar) can last 20–30 years. Engineered options can stretch to 50 years with minimal care. Don’t let weather do the talking—make your siding last by staying proactive.

How often should I paint or stain my exterior wood siding?
Every 5–7 years, depending on your wood type and climate exposure. Regular touch-ups extend not just the look, but the structural integrity.

What’s the average cost of installing wood siding?
Expect to pay between $10,000–$20,000 for a 2,000 sq ft home. Cedar tends to be more expensive upfront but delivers excellent ROI. Think long-term: cheap siding now often means costly repairs later.

Can I leave my wood siding untreated?
Technically yes, but it’s not advised. Untreated wood is highly susceptible to rot, mold, and insect damage—especially in wet or snowy climates like Winnipeg. It’s not a question of if it’ll fail, but when.

Still have questions? We’re here to help. Talk to the Integrity Painting team today

The Integrity Painting Difference

At Integrity Painting, we’ve spent over a decade helping homeowners across Winnipeg make smart, beautiful, and lasting exterior upgrades. We’re not just painters—we’re home preservationists. Our reputation is built on craftsmanship, honesty, and results you can see for years to come.

Whether you’re restoring century-old wood siding or installing new materials, we bring the right products, process, and people to every project.
We treat your home like it’s our own—and it shows in every brushstroke.

Want to fall in love with your home again? Get a free consultation today