Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What surfaces can you clean with a laser?
A: We work on timber, stone, concrete, steel, stainless steel, aluminium, alloy and automotive panels. If you're unsure whether laser cleaning is right for your surface, just get in touch and we'll advise honestly.

Q: Is laser cleaning safe for delicate or antique surfaces?
A: Yes — laser cleaning is one of the safest methods available for delicate materials. The laser targets only the contamination layer, leaving the surface underneath completely unharmed. It's ideal for antique furniture, heritage timber, carved details and memorial stonework.

Q: Do you use chemicals?
A: No. Laser cleaning is completely chemical-free. There's no stripping agent, no neutralising process and no chemical residue left behind — making it safe for people, pets and the environment.

Q: How does laser cleaning compare to sandblasting?
A: Laser cleaning is more precise, less messy and leaves no abrasive media embedded in seams or cavities. It's faster to set up, requires no media disposal and is safe on surfaces where sandblasting would cause damage.

Q: Are you mobile? Do I need to bring items to you?
A: We're fully mobile and come directly to your home, workshop or job site. There's no need to transport items to us in most cases.

Q: What areas do you service?
A: We're based in Christchurch and service all of Canterbury. For larger or specialist jobs we're happy to discuss travel further afield — just get in touch.

Q: Can you remove rust from car panels and automotive parts?
A: Yes. Laser cleaning is ideal for rust removal from car panels, chassis rails, brackets and hard-to-reach areas before repainting or powder coating. Andrew is a qualified automotive mechanic with extensive panel trade experience.

Q: Can you clean headstones and memorials?
A: Yes. We specialise in the careful cleaning of headstones, memorials and monumental stonework — removing lichen, moss, biological staining and pollution safely and without chemicals or abrasives.

Q: Can you strip paint from timber furniture and doors?
A: Absolutely. Laser stripping is ideal for furniture, doors, window frames, staircases and decorative mouldings — including intricate carvings and turned profiles that are difficult to strip any other way.

Q: Can laser cleaning remove oil stains from my driveway?
A: Laser cleaning works well on surface and near-surface oil and grease staining on concrete. Very deep or heavily saturated old stains may not be fully removable by any method, but we'll always assess and test a small area first so you know exactly what to expect before we proceed.

Q: How long does a job take?
A: It depends on the size and complexity of the job. Small items like a piece of furniture or a set of car parts can be completed in an hour or two. Larger jobs such as a full door and window strip on a character home are quoted individually. We'll always give you a clear time and cost estimate upfront.

Q: Do you offer free quotes?
A: Yes, all quotes are free and obligation-free. Contact us by phone or email and we'll discuss your project and provide an honest assessment of what's achievable.

Q: Is laser cleaning eco-friendly?
A: Yes. We use no chemicals, produce no liquid waste and leave no abrasive media behind. We're also proud partners with ecoDrive, supporting native forest planting across New Zealand and Australia through Green Earth Appeal and Greenfleet.

Q: Can you work on-site at my workshop or job site?
A: Yes. We regularly work alongside panel beaters, builders, stonemasons and furniture restorers at their premises. We're set up to integrate with your workflow with minimal disruption.

Q: How do I get in touch or book a job?
A: Call or text Andrew on 021 08477905, email andrew@laserresto.co.nz, or visit www.laserresto.co.nz. We aim to respond to all enquiries within one business day.