Exterior stain question for cedar siding

[shkbldr]

Getting ready to put on a western red cedar channel siding rough sawn out. Looking for information on best product to use to stain/seal. Should I also stain or seal the back side before installation? I'm a builder not a painter. I am building in south-east MI so I will also need to protect it from the elements.

[rwanders]

Stain all sides and edges before you install. I have had good luck with Behrs products and Cabots is also very good. I prefer semi-transparent stain myself but would avoid the solid stains as they tend to peel just like paint. Two coats on exposed sides at least is best practice

[RTF]

Stain and seal everything, and I second the use of Cabot products.