Whether you're building a new fence, decking your backyard, or refreshing a tired outdoor table, giving your timber a protective finish is key to ensuring it lasts in New Zealand’s tough conditions—especially here in Whangarei where sun, wind and moisture can take their toll. The good news? With the right product and a bit of prep, you can keep your timber looking great and performing well for years to come.
1. Start with the Right Timber
Before you even reach for a brush, make sure you're working with timber suitable for the job. H3.2 treated pine is ideal for outdoor use above ground, while H4 is used for timber in contact with the ground. For indoor projects, untreated pine or dressed hardwoods are common.
If you’re using recycled or weathered timber, make sure it’s clean and dry before applying any product.
2. Preparation is Everything
Proper prep makes all the difference:
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Sand the surface to remove any rough spots, dirt, old finishes, or mill glaze.
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Clean the timber with a timber cleaner or sugar soap to remove dust and oils.
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Dry it out – the wood must be completely dry before you apply stain, oil or paint.
Tip: If the timber has greyed off from weather exposure, use a timber reviver before finishing.
3. Choosing Between Stain, Oil, and Paint
Here’s how to pick the right finish for your timber:
Stain
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Purpose: Enhances the grain while adding colour.
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Best for: Decks, fences, pergolas.
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Pros: Penetrates the wood, provides a natural look, easy to reapply.
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Tip: Use UV-resistant outdoor timber stains in Whangarei’s sunny conditions.
Oil
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Purpose: Nourishes and protects timber from within.
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Best for: Outdoor furniture, cladding, hardwoods.
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Pros: Brings out natural tones, easy to maintain.
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Tip: Reapply annually for the best protection—especially in coastal areas.
Paint
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Purpose: Seals and covers timber completely.
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Best for: Exterior walls, trim, weatherboards, and indoor timber.
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Pros: Maximum protection, colour options, long lifespan.
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Tip: Always use a good quality primer first, then apply 2-3 coats of paint.
4. Application Tips
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Apply with a brush, roller or spray, depending on the product and surface area.
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Always check the weather forecast—avoid applying in full sun or before rain.
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Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying and recoating times.
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Don’t forget to coat edges, ends and joins, where water can soak in.
5. Ongoing Maintenance
No finish lasts forever. Here’s how to keep your timber looking fresh:
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Clean outdoor timber annually to remove dirt and algae.
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Recoat stained or oiled timber every 1–2 years, or as needed.
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Check for signs of peeling, cracking or mould—early treatment saves work later.