26 Waru, Khandallah

This stunning Khandallah property features extensive cedar cladding and timber architectural elements that required specialist staining to protect and enhance the natural timber beauty. The existing stain had faded significantly due to Wellington's intense UV exposure, and some areas showed early signs of weathering that needed addressing before re-staining could commence.

Cedar is a premium cladding material and deserves to be treated as such. Unlike weatherboard where you're building a surface film, staining cedar correctly means getting the product into the timber — penetration is everything. If you apply stain over a dirty or oxidised surface, you're sealing the grime in and reducing the stain's ability to bond with the wood fibre. We knew from the outset that preparation would be the bulk of the work on this project.

Our team began with a thorough clean using appropriate timber cleaning solutions, followed by light sanding where necessary to remove damaged surface fibres and create an ideal surface for stain penetration. The cleaning process lifted the grey oxidation that had developed across sun-exposed elevations, revealing the cedar's warm natural tones beneath. We applied Resene Woodsman timber stain in a rich, warm tone that complemented the home's contemporary architecture whilst providing maximum UV protection. The staining system consisted of two full coats, with additional coats applied to horizontal surfaces and areas with higher exposure to ensure long-lasting protection and colour consistency.

The north-facing sections of cladding received a third coat of stain on horizontal ledges and in the channels between boards where water can pool. These are the areas that fail first on any stained property, and addressing them properly upfront is the difference between a six-year maintenance cycle and a three-year one. We also treated the exposed rafter tails and window surrounds with the same system for a cohesive result.

The transformation was remarkable, with the cedar's natural grain beautifully enhanced whilst now protected against Wellington's harsh weather. This type of wood staining project requires specialist knowledge to achieve optimal results. The homeowners were delighted with the finished appearance and reassured by the protection now afforded to their valuable timber cladding. Regular maintenance staining will keep this home looking pristine for years to come.