Cedar Staining & Restoration
Expert cedar care for Wanaka, Queenstown & Central Otago
Wanaka's Cedar Staining Specialists
Cedar is one of the most beautiful cladding materials in the Southern Lakes — but Central Otago's intense UV, temperature extremes, and low humidity can age it rapidly without proper care.
I'm Bradley Hamilton, and I've been staining and restoring cedar across Wanaka, Queenstown, Arrowtown and Cromwell for over 15 years. I've learned exactly which products perform in our conditions, how to prepare timber for lasting results, and the maintenance schedules that keep cedar looking great decade after decade.
Whether your cedar needs a maintenance re-stain or a full restoration from grey weathered boards back to warm honey tones, I can help. I use only premium penetrating oil stains with high-grade UV protection — the kind of products that actually last in our harsh alpine environment.
Why Choose Us for Cedar Staining
Local expertise and premium products for cedar that lasts
UV Protection Experts
We understand Central Otago's intense alpine UV. Our stain systems include high-grade UV blockers to prevent premature greying and degradation.
Moisture Management
Penetrating oil stains allow cedar to breathe while repelling water. Essential for our climate's freeze-thaw cycles.
15+ Years Experience
We've stained hundreds of cedar homes across Wanaka, Queenstown and Central Otago. We know what works here.
Premium Products Only
Dryden Colourtone+, Resene Woodsman, Cabot's Australian Timber Oil. We use products proven in harsh conditions.
Our Cedar Staining Services
Complete cedar care from routine maintenance to full restoration
Cedar Weatherboard Staining
Full staining service for cedar cladding and weatherboards. From maintenance coats to complete restoration of grey, weathered timber.
Timber Restoration
Bring weathered, grey cedar back to life. We sand back damaged surface fibres and restore the timber's natural warmth.
Maintenance Programs
Regular washing and re-staining schedules to keep your cedar in peak condition and avoid expensive full restorations.
How We Stain Cedar
A methodical approach developed over 15+ years in Central Otago
Assess
Moisture readings, condition assessment, and weather window planning. We identify what your cedar needs.
Prepare
Wash with timber-safe cleaners, allow to dry, sand back grey weathering if needed, and remove all dust.
Stain
Apply premium penetrating oil stain. Two coats minimum, three on high-exposure faces. Work with the shade.
Protect
Final inspection and touch-ups. We'll advise on maintenance timing to keep your cedar looking great.
Products We Trust
After testing dozens of products in Central Otago's harsh conditions, these are our go-to cedar stains:
Dryden Colourtone+ Oil Stain
Premium ChoiceOur top recommendation for most cedar jobs. Excellent UV blockers, deep penetration, and a beautiful natural finish. Lasts 3-4 years on moderate exposures.
Resene Woodsman
Great ValueA solid waterborne option with good colour range and easy cleanup. Excellent for budget-conscious projects. Recoat every 2-3 years.
Cabot's Australian Timber Oil
Maximum DurabilityWhen you need extra toughness for high-wear areas. Proven performance in harsh conditions.
Cedar Staining FAQs
How often should cedar weatherboards be re-stained in Wanaka?
In Wanaka's intense alpine climate, we recommend re-staining cedar every 2-3 years for north and west-facing walls, and every 3-4 years for sheltered south-facing areas. Regular maintenance prevents costly full restorations.
What's the best stain for cedar in Central Otago?
We recommend Dryden Colourtone+ for premium jobs - it has excellent UV blockers essential for our high-altitude sun. Resene Woodsman is a great mid-range option. We always use penetrating oil stains rather than film-forming products for cedar.
Can you restore grey, weathered cedar?
Yes, we specialise in restoring weathered cedar. We sand back the grey oxidised layer to reveal fresh timber, then apply multiple coats of quality stain. Most grey cedar can be brought back to its original beauty.
How much does cedar staining cost in Wanaka?
For a maintenance re-stain on well-maintained cedar, expect $15-25 per square metre. Full restoration of weathered cedar (including sanding) ranges from $35-50 per square metre. We provide free quotes with exact pricing for your property.
What preparation is needed before staining cedar?
Proper preparation is crucial. We wash the timber to remove dirt and mould, allow it to dry completely (below 18% moisture), sand if needed to remove grey weathering, and ensure the surface is dust-free before applying stain.
Cedar Staining Across Central Otago
We provide cedar staining and timber restoration services throughout the region:
“Thanks to Brad for doing such an amazing job on our Wānaka house - the newly stained cedar looks beautiful and the whole house has had a lift. It was very easy to work with Brad as out-of-town home owners. Highly recommended!”
Sarah Gunn
March 2026
“Brad was very professional and a great communicator. I am overseas and it was super easy dealing with him. He got the job done and was in touch every step of the way. He is thorough and did a great job. I would definitely use him again if need be and he comes highly recommended. Thanks very much for a job well done!”
Glenda Turner
March 2026
“We had Lakeside Painting do some wallpaper and painting for us and have done a fantastic job. Brad and Suz were great and completed in record time, we will certainly have them back again.”
Wes Fiebig
March 2026
Contact Us for a Complimentary Consultation
Ready to transform your space? Connect with us for a personalized, no-obligation consultation and detailed proposal.
Telephone
+64 22 106 0336
Available Monday-Friday, 7:30am-5:30pm
info@lakesidepainting.co.nz
We respond to all inquiries within 24 hours
Service Area
Wanaka and surrounding areas
Why Discerning Homeowners Choose Us
- 15+ years professional experience
- Fully insured with a workmanship guarantee
- 15+ years in the industry
- Perfect 5-star rating on Google
- Known for exceptional quality and attention to detail
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