How can I lighten my interior cedar wall without painting?
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When I was a kid we built a cedar home with beautiful cedar paneling. It has darkened with age. We'd like to lighten it up without covering the beautiful grain with paint! Is there a way to do this? Is it possible to whitewash with a yellow or light brown?
Suggested Project Book
Hi Heather,
Here is one link I found on bleaching cedar and here is another one. I hope these help you.
Don't white wash or paint it will wreck it Cedar has bug repellent capabilities and painting whitewashing will stop the natural ability of cedar to do this. Bleaching will restore to brighter former beautiful color of wood. https://www.houzz.com/discussions/2471468/how-can-i-lighten-real-cedar-walls-and-ceilings MORE https://www.woodmagazine.com/materials-guide/finishes/get-the-color-out-with-wood-bleach
Dust or vacuum with the brush attachment. Clean with this mixture:
1 cup water
1/4 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup mineral oil
20 drops lemon oil
Hi! Sanding it would remove the darkened finish and reveal the gorgeous wood. Clean it well, and then stain it. You can also seal it.