THE CEDAR PRESERVATION PROCESS
Experts of cedar restoration in the Southern Lakes District, Queenstown
If your cedar is starting to show any of these signs, it is time to act:
- Silvering or patchy/uneven colouring
- Mould or lichen is present
- The cladding has started to cup
THE PROCESS
- Often the North and West facing aspects of the house will be affected before the rest of the house
- A low-pressure chemical wash will remove oxidised coatings, mould and lichen. The wash will also extend the service life of the stain or oil treatment.
- A domestic grade water blaster not done by a professional will most likely cause further damage because of the softness of the timber.
- Cedar wood can be left without a finish or paint. However, the durability of cedar is enhanced by regular applications of sealer to retain its colour and stability.
- Once the washing process is complete it is time for the Stain or oil application. Often the re-application product is determined by what was firstly applied or what is currently on the cedar at the time of current application.
- Oil works like a moisturizer, deeply replenishing natural oils removed by the sun.
- Traditional stains sit on top of the timber and act like a barrier the keep the elements out but not replacing the lost oils from the weathered timber
- Depending on the condition, varying amounts of oil will be needed on different parts of the house/building. Some wood needs sanding before oil application.
