Top 10 Deck Stain Colours NZ | Resene Woodsman & Exterior Timber Paint for Your Cedar Deck

3 min readApr 13, 2024

I. Introduction

A. Importance of choosing the right deck stain colour

When it comes to maintaining the beauty and durability of your deck, selecting the perfect stain colour is a crucial decision. The right deck stain not only enhances the visual appeal of your outdoor living space but also protects the timber from the harsh New Zealand weather conditions. Resene Woodsman & Exterior Timber Paint offers a wide range of high-quality stains and paints designed to transform and rejuvenate your cedar deck, furniture, and other exterior timber surfaces.

B. Brief overview of Resene Woodsman & Exterior Timber Paint

Resene Woodsman & Exterior Timber Paint is a trusted brand in New Zealand, known for its superior quality and extensive colour options. Their products are specially formulated to penetrate deep into the wood, providing long-lasting protection against UV rays, moisture, and wear. Whether you prefer a natural, transparent look or a bold, opaque finish, Resene Woodsman has a stain or paint to suit your style and needs.

II. Preparation

A. Cleaning your deck before staining

Importance of a clean deck surface

Before applying any stain or paint, it is essential to ensure that your deck surface is clean and free from dirt, mould, and grey, weathered timber. A clean deck allows the stain to penetrate evenly and adhere properly, resulting in a more durable and long-lasting finish.

Steps to properly clean your deck

To clean your deck, start by removing any furniture, potted plants, or debris from the surface. Use a high-quality deck clean product, such as Cabot’s Deck Clean, following the label instructions carefully. Apply the cleaner to the deck, scrub thoroughly, and then rinse the surface with water. Allow the deck to dry completely before proceeding with the staining process.

III. Choosing the right stain

A. Water-based vs. oil-based stains

Advantages of water-based exterior stains

Water-based exterior stains, like Resene Woodsman Decking Stain, offer several advantages over traditional oil-based stains. They are easy to clean up with soap and water, have low odour, and dry quickly. Water-based stains are also highly durable and resistant to UV rays, weathering, and wear, making them an excellent choice for New Zealand’s challenging climate.

When to use oil-based stains

Oil-based stains, such as Resene Woodsman Decking Oil Stain, are ideal for enhancing the natural wood grain and colour of your timber. They provide a rich, transparent look that highlights the inherent beauty of the wood. Oil-based stains are particularly suitable for furniture, cedar decks, and other exterior timber surfaces where a more natural appearance is desired.

B. Resene Woodsman Decking Stain

Features and benefits

Resene Woodsman Decking Stain is a high-quality, water-based stain designed to protect and enhance the natural beauty of your timber deck. It is highly durable, long-lasting, and resistant to UV rays, weathering, and wear. The stain is easy to apply and maintain, and it dries to a semi-transparent finish that allows the wood grain to show through.

Colour options for NZ timber decks

Resene Woodsman Decking Stain is available in a wide range of colours to suit any style or preference. From natural wood tones like Light Oak and Natural to bold and vibrant hues like English Cherry and Arthouse, there is a colour to match every taste and décor.

C. Resene Woodsman Decking Oil Stain

Suitable for furniture and cedar decks

Resene Woodsman Decking Oil Stain is a premium oil-based stain that is perfect for furniture, cedar decks, and other exterior timber surfaces. It penetrates deep into the wood, providing excellent protection against the elements while enhancing the natural beauty of the timber.

Enhancing the natural wood grain

One of the main advantages of using an oil-based stain like Resene Woodsman Decking Oil Stain is its ability to highlight the natural wood grain and colour. The transparent finish allows the inherent character and texture of the timber to shine through, creating a warm and inviting look for your outdoor living space.