How Controlled Erosion Stain Creates an Evenly Weathered Finish

Australian hardwood cladding naturally changes colour as it is exposed to the elements. For many projects, this gradual ageing process is part of the appeal. However, timber does not always weather evenly across an entire building.

Areas exposed to direct sunlight, wind and rain may begin to silver quickly, while timber beneath eaves, verandahs and window shrouds can retain more of its original colour. The orientation of the building, surrounding vegetation and other environmental conditions can also affect how the timber ages.

The result can be a patchwork appearance that can take considerable time for the colour to even out.

Australian hardwood cladding with an evenly weathered finish

Why Pre-Coat Australian Hardwood?

Pre-coating Australian hardwood before installation helps protect the timber from moisture moving in and out of the boards. This can support timber stability and reduce the risk of excessive movement after installation.

A clear coating can provide this important moisture protection while allowing the timber’s natural colour to remain visible. However, it will not prevent different sections of the building from ageing at different rates.

For clients who want a more consistent weathered appearance from the beginning, a specialised timber stain may be a better option.

Explore Our Pre-Coating Options

Everist Timber offers a professional pre-coating service using a carefully selected range of timber stains and finishes. These options can be used to achieve anything from soft, natural tones through to deeper greys and darker architectural finishes, allowing the timber to complement the overall style of the project.

Grimes & Sons Controlled Erosion Stain

Grimes & Sons Controlled Erosion Stain is designed to help Australian hardwood age more evenly. The stain gradually fades in exposed areas while remaining longer in protected areas, helping to reduce the patchy appearance that can occur during the natural weathering process.

The range includes several finishes to suit different projects. Weathered Edge creates a natural grey appearance, while Wharf Grey and Dusty Lime are well suited to coastal settings. For a darker, charred look, Coal Face offers a bold architectural finish.

Raw timber compared with Weathered Edge Stain

In progress: Raw timber compared with Weathered Edge Stain.

Half-strength Weathered Edge Stain

Stain: ½ Strength Weathered Edge.

Controlled Erosion is applied as a two-coat system:

  • The first coat is machine-applied by Everist Timber before installation.
  • The timber is coated across all surfaces for more consistent protection.
  • A second coat is applied on site to achieve the preferred depth of colour and finish.

Made locally in Melbourne, Grimes & Sons products have a low carbon footprint compared to many imported alternatives from Northern Europe. Led by Alan and Una, their knowledgeable and friendly team works closely with clients to achieve the desired result, whether selecting from the standard range or creating a bespoke tint for a customised finish.

Talk to Us About Pre-Coated Timber Cladding

Whether you are looking for a natural silver-grey finish, a soft coastal colour or a darker charred appearance, Controlled Erosion Stain can help your timber cladding age more evenly and gracefully.

Speak to the Everist Timber team about Australian hardwood cladding, pre-coating options and Grimes & Sons Controlled Erosion Stain for your next project.

Gallery

Weathered Australian hardwood cladding on a coastal home
Coastal home featuring weathered timber cladding
Contemporary home with Australian hardwood cladding
Vertical Australian hardwood cladding and windows
Weathered timber decking and external wall cladding
Australian hardwood cladding around a landscaped courtyard
Two-storey building clad in Australian hardwood timber
Dark weathered timber cladding with vertical windows
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