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October 29, 2014
🪵 How to Apply a Stain to a Cedar Pergola or Gazebo: A Step-by-Step Guide
Western Red Cedar is prized for its rich color, natural durability, and ability to hold stain beautifully — thanks to its lack of pitch and resin. Whether you’ve just received your pergola or gazebo kit or are planning a backyard upgrade, applying a quality stain can protect your investment and bring out the natural charm of your cedar structure.
Here’s how to Stain to a Cedar Pergola right.
📦 Before You Build: Prepare Your Cedar for Staining
The best time to stain your Western Red Cedar Pergola or Gazebo is before installation. Why?
You can work comfortably at ground level.
You can stain all six sides of each board, offering complete protection from moisture and UV exposure.
It saves you the hassle of staining around joints and hardware later on.
Tip: Store your cedar parts in a dry, covered area, off the ground. Cedar should have around 15% moisture content for optimal stain absorption. If left exposed to the elements — even for a few days — the surface may become weathered and less receptive to stain.
Looking to get started on your project? Check out our full range of Western Red Cedar Pergola Kits and Gazebo Kits, proudly made in Canada using sustainably harvested wood.
🎨 Choosing the Right Stain for Cedar
Walk into any hardware store and you’ll find dozens of wood finishes. The key is to choose one that suits your aesthetic goals and offers long-term protection.
Most common types of stains:
| Type | Appearance | Protection | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transparent | Light tint, enhances natural color | Low | A natural, subtle look |
| Semi-transparent | Adds a soft tone while showing grain | Medium | Preserving cedar’s character |
| Solid color | Opaque, hides grain | High | Bold color or uniform finish |
At Outdoor Living Today, we’ve tested numerous brands. Two we recommend:
Cabot’s Wood Toned Deck & Siding Stain – Cedar or Natural
Sikkens Cetol SRD – Cedar or Natural
Both offer excellent penetration, UV protection, and color retention — plus solid color versions if you’re after a painted look.
🧪 Test First — Avoid Regret Later
Don’t trust the sample swatch. Always test your stain on a spare piece or the inside of the post skirts (these are hidden once assembled). This ensures you love the final look before committing to the full structure.
Need additional guidance? Explore our Assembly Manuals & Support Resources for in-depth product guides.
🖌 Brush or Rag? Use Both for the Best Results
For even application and deep penetration, we recommend using both a natural bristle brush and a lint-free rag:
Brush: Ideal for end grains, notches, and corners. Helps push stain deep into the wood fibers.
Rag: Great for smoothing puddles, catching drips, and avoiding dark blotches.
Pro Tip: Work in small sections. Brush on the stain with one hand and follow with a rag in the other. This method helps develop a smooth, even finish with fewer lap marks.
Allow stain to dry for at least 24–48 hours before handling or assembling your pergola or gazebo.
Looking to enhance your build? Explore our Parts & Accessories like post skirts, privacy panels, louvered walls, and more.
🌿 Prefer the Natural Look? Let Cedar Age Gracefully
Not into staining? That’s okay! Western Red Cedar naturally weathers to a beautiful silver-grey patina over time. It’s a timeless, low-maintenance look that many homeowners love — especially for modern, minimalist outdoor spaces.
If you’re going au naturel, consider our durable Western Red Cedar Sheds, Greenhouses, or Raised Garden Beds — all crafted to last, stain or no stain.
🛠 Ready to Build?
A well-stained pergola not only lasts longer — it looks stunning for years to come. Whether you’re enhancing your backyard for outdoor dining, gardening, or relaxation, taking the time to finish your cedar kit properly pays off.
Still have questions? Browse our FAQs or learn more About Us and our mission to bring nature into your outdoor space.
