Oil, Stain, or Paint
Which one is best for your home?
Whether you want to deeply nourish the natural timber, add rich color, or completely restore it with paint, we help you find the perfect fit. Our tailored cedar services ensure your home looks its absolute best while staying completely protected.
Oiling, staining, and painting all protect your timber, but they do it in different ways and create very different finishes. Each option suits different stages of cedar condition, levels of weather exposure, and design preferences.
The best choice depends on the current condition of your cedar, the look you want to achieve, and how much protection your home needs in New Zealand’s climate. Oils enhance the natural timber and nourish it from within, stains add colour while still allowing the grain to show, and paint provides a fully coated, uniform finish with the highest level of colour control.
Dryden WoodOil
Soaks deep into the timber to protect it from within (not just on the surface)
Strong water resistance helps stop the cedar absorbing moisture
Helps reduce common issues like cupping, warping, and splitting
Does not peel or flake as it weathers, as it forms no surface film
Enhances the natural grain and warmth of the cedar
Easy maintenance – typically just clean and re-oil, no heavy stripping required
Can be left clear for a natural silver look or tinted for added UV protection
Designed specifically for New Zealand’s harsh weather conditions
Contains fungicide to help protect against mould and mildew
Resene Waterborne Woodsman
Penetrates the timber to enhance and protect the natural look
Wide range of colours for different styles and finishes
Dries quickly with low odour for easier application
Good resistance to mould and mildew
Eco Choice Aotearoa approved environmentally considered product
Suitable for both new and weathered cedar
Selected colours feature CoolColour technology to reduce heat build-up
Often requires minimal prep for maintenance recoats
Provides a consistent, even colour finish while still allowing the grain to show through
Cedar Painting
Forms a solid protective coating over the timber surface (unlike oils or stains that penetrate)
Fully covers the natural cedar grain for a uniform painted finish
Offers the widest range of colour and design options
Provides strong UV protection when properly maintained
Best suited for a bold, modern look rather than a natural timber finish
At Cedar People, we don't recommend the same solution for every home. We assess your cedar first and explain the best option based on its condition, your goals, and the finish you want to achieve. That way, you can be confident you're investing in the right treatment.
Not sure which option is right for your home? Get in touch for a free assessment and we'll recommend the best solution for your cedar.