It is actually western cedar vs. eastern cedar, which this is western and belt sanding is the only uniform way to remove the sun etched aging, and make it look like new. Sikkens Log and Siding (oil based) is used and yes, every 3 years it should have a top coat, but now that it is going to be properly maintained the blackish won't be back.
PS: not sure what was on before, but it comes off with slight flakeyness.
On the out of the sun sides, 40 grit does well and after about 30 minutes, replacing the belt. On the Sunny side 36 grit is used. Right now the finish is almost like new.
Take a look at this picture:
Boards being sanded are nearly tannish. Sun baked boards are nearly blackish and 2 coats of Sikkens Cedar 077 on old boards with 30 years of tannin (after 36 grit sanding) comes out a very nice reddish (almost redwood like) tone.
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