The Horizontal Challenge
Decks represent the most challenging environment for any coating system. Unlike walls, decks are horizontal surfaces that endure standing water, direct perpendicular UV radiation and physical abrasion from foot traffic. In Rotorua’s damp climate, this combination creates a perfect storm for fungal decay and coating failure. Standard acrylic paints often fail because they trap moisture. When water enters through screw holes or board ends it becomes trapped under the paint film. As the sun heats the deck this moisture vapour expands, causing the paint to blister and peel.
Stain Technology for Decks
For residential painting projects involving decks, penetrating stains are the superior engineering choice. Modern water‑based decking stains (such as Kwila Timber Stain or specialised decking oils) are designed to erode gradually rather than peel. This makes maintenance straightforward—simply wash and re‑apply—without the need for mechanical stripping.
For pine decks, adding a pigment is essential. Clear coats provide zero UV protection, leading to the timber greying and degrading beneath the clear film. A natural or oak tone provides the necessary sacrificial pigments to block UV rays while maintaining a timber look.
Fence Preservation Strategies
Fences are often the neglected asset of a property, yet they are expensive to replace. The failure mode for fences in Rotorua is typically rot at the ground line or warping due to uneven drying. Painting a fence does more than improve aesthetics; it seals the timber pores, reducing water uptake and stabilising the wood. Spray application is the standard for fences, allowing for deep penetration into the rough‑sawn timber face. For maximum longevity, a “soft wash” pre‑treatment to kill lichen is vital. Lichen roots retain moisture against the wood surface, accelerating rot. Tomar Contracting includes lichen treatment as a mandatory step in all fence restoration projects.
Trends for 2026: The Dark Aesthetic
A major trend for 2026 is the use of black and charcoal stains for fences and decks to create a high‑contrast backdrop for green foliage. However, black absorbs immense heat. It is critical to use stains incorporating Cool pigment technology to prevent the timber from twisting or cupping under the thermal load.
Conclusion
Decks and fences are the frame of your property. Treating them with the same technical consideration as your home’s cladding extends their life and enhances the overall value of your asset. Regular cleaning and re‑oiling are small investments compared to the cost of re‑building.
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