Staining Protects Porous Wood Fences

Costs
Durability
Maintenance
Pictures

Popular House Painting Topics
Pros and Cons
Questions and Answers
References

Does your wood fence look weather-beaten and old? It might be time for a pick-me-up. Apply a coat or two of stain to protect your fence from the elements while boosting your curb appeal at the same time. Here’s some info to get you started.

Costs

It’s important to first decide whether you will be tackling the project yourself or calling in the pros. A painting contractor will charge, on average, about $260 to stain both sides of a 50-foot fence (Note: this could cost less in your area; contact a painting professional for exact price estimates). You could also turn this into a DIY project for the cost of materials only. A word of caution, though: know what you’re doing before you begin.

Pictures

Pros

Staining a wood fence improves its structural durability.

Also greatly improves the appearance and value of both your fence and property.

Enhances the color and texture of wood, instead of covering it like paint does.

Cons

Staining a fence can take a significant amount of time, especially in wet climates, where the drying time is increased.

If a fence is already painted, stain cannot be applied until the paint is thoroughly stripped.

Stain requires maintenance and will need to be reapplied periodically.

Durability

Staining your fence will add to its durability by protecting it from dirt, pollen and mold spores.

Maintenance

Routine maintenance is required when it comes to ensuring that your wood fence is structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing. Inspect your fence to make sure the boards are not rotting, and apply a sealant every few years to protect from water damage.

Common Questions and Answers

What tasks need to be completed before staining a wood fence?

Inspect the fence for any rotten, broken or weak boards, and replace if necessary. Then clean the fence by using a pressure-washer or garden hose. Allow the fence to thoroughly dry before staining.

What is the best stain to use?

It really depends on your priorities:

#1—For fast application, check out 5-Minute Fence. It’s designed to keep the finishing process to a minimum of time and effort on your part. The product is a water-based acrylic stain with UV protection. One jug of 5-Minute Fence attached to your hose for easy application can take the place of four gallons of stain.

#2—For more color options, your best bet would be Wood Defender. They carry two lines of fence stain—transparent and semi-transparent—and each line offers several color choices. The products also come with a three-year warranty./

#3—For longevity, the manufacturers of One Time state that it should protect any fence for at least seven years. It’s a sealant with a proprietary acrylate resin blend. One Time can be used on any type of wood, promises to keep it from cupping, warping or splitting, and also prevents mold growth.

#4—For tough vertical projects, Minwax Gel Stain makes your life a little easier. Its gelled qualities ensure a simple non-drip application, although you will have to apply two coats plus an exterior clear top coat. Minwax can be found in any hardware store.