Questions and Answers
Why do I need to treat my cedar cladding?
Cedar is an amazing wood packed full of natural preservatives that help protect it from the elements. A common misconception is that cedar can be left to fend for itself; true cedar is low maintenance, but it is not a “no maintenance” material. Over time moisture, heat and UV light slowly deplete these preservatives leaving the cedar vulnerable. Once the cedar starts to deteriorate the surface will start to silver, split and cup allowing moisture to enter the timber along with dirt creating a perfect place for mould and mildew to form, attacking the structure of your timber and speeding up the final demise of your cladding, if left unchecked the timber will rot and replacement would be necessary.
How do I know when to treat my cedar?
Cedar like any timber needs to be looked after right from the start.
Prevention is the key to making your cedar last a life time, but if your cedar has been neglected it can be revitalised and brought back to life, using the right techniques applied by our fully trained, professional Protech Painters staff.
New Zealand weather is one of the harshest in the world, with Hi UV levels, moisture and humidity. When exposed to these conditions, solubilising of the lignin takes place silvering of the surface. Bacteria and enzymes also cause degradation resulting in decomposition and favourable conditions for the growth of fungus and rot.
If your Cedar is starting to silver, you notice a blacking or discolouration of the surface or you just want to get it checked, it’s time to give Protech Painters a call. One of our friendly professional staff can offer you free advice, even assess the situation and come back to you with a free, no obligation quote.
Can't I just paint over damage with a good waterproof paint or varnish?
No. Neither varnish nor paint can stop or treat any damage to wood. UV light can easily penetrate varnish causing further damage. Because paint and varnish create a surface film, when the timber heats up in the sun any trapped moisture tries to exit through the film causing blistering and worse, hiding currently existing damage that needs treatment. Preservatives are essential to replace lost oil and resins. To protect your cedar investment, use only timber treatments specifically designed to treat and preserve exterior cedar timber structures.
Why not just do it myself to save on cost?
Why not indeed?
Cedar restoration is a specialised field; there is more to it than just brushing on some coating and calling it a day.
Knowing how to clean the cedar and preparing it for the coating is where most of the hard work begins. It can be time consuming dirty work. If you have the time, the patients, and equipment and don’t mind getting your hands dirty you can achieve satisfactory results.
If you get it wrong with cedar, the outcome can be disastrous and costly.
Cedar Care Staff are backed by years of experience and are fully trained to give you the best experience possible, in both a professional finish and unmatched customer service. Cedar Care Staff are better informed on how to best assess and handle each job, taking in environmental conditions, and the condition of your cedar, to achieve the highest quality finish.
Don’t risk costly mistakes contact us for a free quote today?
PHONE: 0220 552 553
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