Many factors contribute to shortening the life of your fence, including mold, mildew, rot, UV rays, and termites. But staining your fence will not only give your property a fresh new look, it will protect your wood from the above-mentioned elements, which in turn will prolong the life of your fence.

Follow these helpful tips from AmazingFencing.com to stain your wooden fence for the first time:

  • Prep the wood’s surface. Before starting, take time to thoroughly prep the surface of your fence: remove cobwebs, scrape off dirt and clean it with warm water. Sand any rough areas of the fence. If an older fence, look for insect damage that may have already occurred.
  • Choose the right materials. Choose from three types of stain: transparent, semi-transparent, and opaque. Select the type that best suits the look you are going for and that complements the rest of your property. Using quality materials will make the task easier. In addition to a rolling brush, invest in a paintbrush that won’t lose its bristles. Having both a large and small paintbrush helps reach all areas of your fence, including corners and crevices. Placing cardboard or a plastic sheet under your fence will help avoid getting your brush dirty or paint dripping onto the ground.
  • Use a primer. For the stain to absorb into the wood properly, use an oil-based or water-based primer first. This protects the fence from rotting and binds the color to the fibers of your fence, lengthening the color’s vitality. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving to the next step.
  • Apply the stain. Using the rolling brush, start from the top of the fence to the bottom to avoid excessive dripping. Utilize the smaller brush for hard-to-reach areas. You may need to apply multiple coats when staining your fence for the first time to ensure it binds properly. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second coat.

It isn’t just our own lives that we are working hard at trying to extend. Our fences wish for the same thing! Treating it to a good stain will allow you both to grow old together!

Whether temporary or permanent, professional, business, or home—fencing enhances any setting, providing reassuring security and safety, and in many instances, privacy. Contact our helpful professionals at West Memphis Fence for your next fencing project.