Rimu Wood Finishes

Why rimu needs a specialised finish

Native to Aotearoa, rimu is prized for its golden-to-reddish colour and tight, attractive grain. The same extractives that give it character can also cause uneven absorption, so selecting the right rimu wood finish is critical for both appearance and long-term protection.

Main finish types compared

• Clear coats – High-build wood varnishes and polyurethane systems add depth and gloss while resisting abrasion. Ideal for flooring, benchtops and furniture.
• Oil finishes – Penetrating tung or linseed oils nourish the fibres and leave a natural, low-sheen look. Easy to spot-repair but require periodic re-oiling.
• Wax blends – Often applied over oil to boost sheen and water resistance. Best for interior panelling and furniture that won’t see heavy wear.
• Stain-and-seal systems – Pigmented timber stains even out colour or create a darker, contemporary tone before sealing.
• Exterior coatings – Flexible timber coatings formulated with UV blockers protect exposed cladding, joinery and pergolas without obscuring grain.

Performance factors to weigh up

Durability vs appearance: High-build clears last the longest but can slightly amber over time. Oils keep colour light yet offer lower surface protection.

Gloss level: Matte hides minor scratches, satin provides a warm glow, and gloss maximises depth but shows imperfections.

VOC content: Low-VOC water-borne options meet Green Star requirements and minimise onsite odour.

Application tips that prevent blotching

1. Sand progressively to 180–220 grit; going finer can reduce stain uptake.
2. Remove dust with a tack cloth or vacuum – compressed air can drive dust back into pores.
3. Apply a shellac or water-based sanding sealer to equalise absorbency before staining.
4. Maintain a wet edge; rimu flashes fast so work in manageable sections.
5. Follow manufacturer dry-time intervals exactly to avoid witness lines.

Costing and lifecycle considerations

Material cost ranges from $6–$22 per m² depending on system complexity and number of coats. Labour can double that figure, so investing in longer-life products often delivers the lowest total cost of ownership over a 10–15 year cycle.

Sustainability credentials

Many suppliers offer plant-based binders and packaging made from recycled content. Look for Environmental Choice NZ certification or EPD documentation to support green-building submissions.

Specifying through ArchiPro

ArchiPro collates data sheets, warranty documents and installation guides in one place, making it easy to add compliant finishes to your specification schedule. If your project also includes exposed concrete or metal detailing, jump over to our concrete finishes or metal finishes categories for complementary systems.

Next steps

Browse the full Stains & Treatments range, shortlist products, or request pricing directly from suppliers. Our team is on hand to assist with technical queries and lead-time checks so your rimu surfaces stand the test of time.