How to Stain a Fence.
When it comes to staining a fence you have 3 options to choose from.
The first option you have for staining a fence is using a roller. The second option for staining a fence is a brush. The last option for staining a fence is using an air sprayer. The best option of the 3 listed above for staining a fence is a professional air sprayer.
Using a professional air sprayer to stain a fence. Image source: top10goods
When staining a fence the most important thing to keep in mind is the weather. The ideal temperature is anywhere between 50 degrees Fahrenheit and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. You would like humidity to low to moderate. Also, you need to make sure that there is absolutely no precipitation within 24 hours after staining the fence. Extreme cold or moisture can prolong the drying process of the stained wood, and on the other side, extreme heat can dry stain fences too quickly.
Power washing before staining a fence. Image source: OutdoorMaintenanceHQ
Depending on the state of the fence you may need to strip or sand the fence. Once you have determined the weather the next step is to wash the fence, so you can get any dirt off the fence. You will need a high-pressure washer to do this effectively. The purpose of washing the fence is to remove dirt and debris from the wood, leaving nothing but solid wood surface for the stain to be applied. Once you have washed the fence you will need to let it completely dry before continuing.
The next step is to spot clean mildew or mold with diluted bleach, then use wood filler to repair chips or cracks. Once you finish the last 2 steps you will then be ready to apply the stain to your fence. You may want to protect the plants that surround the fence depending on proximity.
Now you have the choice to pick how to apply the stain to the fence. If you decide to use a roller your best bet is using a medium nap roller cover. You’re going to want to apply the stain in 2-3 foot sections. If you decide to use a brush that will be the best way to apply an oil-based stain. Still, the best way to apply stain to a fence is with a professional air sprayer - it leaves an even and natural coat of stain.
That’s it!
You should be ready to go out and stain your fence, but if you ever decide that you’d like some help from professionals, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. At JPL Construction, we are experts in fence staining and so much more. We have built hundreds of fences in and around DFW, and we’d love to build, or stain, yours too!
