In the last 2 weeks we have replaced the cedar shingles on the north and south side of our home. The look of the natural shingles is much more appealing than the very dark brown color that is the original color--what is the best clear solution to put on these shingles for wearability--especially the south side that takes a beating from the sun?

If you use a completely clear product the wood will turn gray, and this can happen rather quickly especially on the south side of the house. I would go with a oil based semi-transparent stain as it will look natural but give you some protection against the UV rays of the sun. These stains can be tinted to any color you want and can be as light or dark as you want. The best way to get the color you want is to take some shingles to a PAINT STORE and they can put on samples while you wait and all you will have to do is buy a gallon or maybe two of stain.