How do you paint cedar shingles?

To paint cedar shingles, it is necessary to have basic painting supplies, such as paint brushes and rollers. You'll also need items to clean the shingles before painting, such as bleach, a sponge and a brush. The process can be completed in a weekend in sunny, warm weather.

1. Clean the shingles

   Use a large sponge to clean shingles that appear to have mildew with a solution of 3 cups of warm water and 1 cup of bleach. Allow the shingles to remain wet for 20 minutes, and then rinse and allow them to dry. Finish cleaning by sweeping the shingles with a stiff brush to remove loose wood or debris.

2. Apply an oil-based primer

   Paint on an oil-based, stain-resistant primer using a paint brush. Follow the grain of the wood, and use a smaller brush when needed to ensure the cracks and crevices between each single is thoroughly coated in primer.

3. Paint the shingles

   Paint the shingles with a latex paint using a roller brush and regular paint brush. The paint brush may be needed to reach small crevices between the shingles, while the roller can be used to paint the large, flat section of each shingle. Allow the paint to dry, and apply a second coat.