benefits for Staining your wood fence – Must have solutions!

You just spent a small fortune on the installing of a new wooden fence or you just obtained a home with a sturdy but dull gray fence. Fences are costly and also you wish to accomplish all you are able to save and extend the life of the investment. Staining and sealing your fence properly will give you defense against the elements and prolong the life span of your fence.

Whether your fence is fir, cedar, pine or spruce, treated or untreated, it will likely be exposed to the outdoor elements; rain, snow, ice, extreme heat and humidity. With time even treated wood will discolor, attract mildew and mold and become subjected to cracks, splits, warping and rotting if it is not properly protected.

Before jumping up and heading to the home improvement store to purchase a can of stain and a brush, there’s something to consider in order to save you time, money and frustrations.

First, consider the season, the temperature, and also the forecast. It will take at least two to three weeks from the beginning of preparation towards the time you can actually apply the very first drop of stain. For those who have a newly installed fence, allow about three weeks for the wood to season before staining. Spring and fall would be the ideal seasons to apply stain and the temperature ought to be above 50F. High temperatures are fine so long as you are not staining in direct sunlight.

Second, inspect your fence thoroughly for loose boards, loose nails, splinters, infestation of termites or carpenter bees, mildew, mold or rot. It is simpler to address and fix the issues before you begin staining. Replace boards, nails or screws as needed and plug up bee holes and treat termite problems.

*It is essential to have a clean and dry fence so the stain will absorb correctly. Utilizing a power washer with deck cleaner solution will make the cleaning job go quicker, but use caution with the pressure and cleaner, as both can make splintering and lift the grain of the wood. Bleach and a scrub brush works equally well . on graying boards, mold and mildew but do not allow the bleach to sit about the wood longer than 10 mins without washing off with clean water.

The next step is going to be deciding which type of stain will work perfect for your needs and gathering your supplies.

Some stain will have a sealant included saving you considerable time. Some stain may need several coat. All are available in a variety of colors.

*Natural stain has a trace of color, will allow texture and wood grain to show entirely through.
*Semi-transparent stain has a little more color, slightlycovers grain but texture can have through.
*Semi-solid stain has much more color, hides the majority of the grain but texture can have through.
*Solid stain, includes a deep, rich color, completely hides the grain and some of the texture.

Tools for application and protection:

*Paint sprayers result in the job go faster, but you should have a brush handy to clean in the stain each and every section.

*Paint rollers also hasten the task, but again you must brush directly into ensure good absorption and even coverage.
*Good high quality nylon or polyester paint brush for stain. Purchase good quality, cheaper brushes will leave bristles or streaks.
*If your stain does not have sealant included, a sprayer is the greatest approach to put it on.
*paint tray, roller, painter’s tape for hardware, safety glasses and mud mask
*drop cloth or newspapers to protect lawn, car, neighbor’s car, etc.
*plenty of scrap cloths, and disposable gloves

Staining day, guarantee the fence is totally dry. You can attempt by sprinkling a small amount of water onto the wood. When the water is quickly absorbed, it’s dry enough. If not, give it a few more days. Check forecast again. The stain needs 24 to 48 hours to totally absorb and dry. Clear away any other objects, including your dog before you begin. Avoid sunlight and do only one section at a time. Guarantee the posts, corners, joints and pickets are completely covered with stain as you go. Again, make sure to brush in evenly for good absorption and optimal protection. Take your time and enjoy your progress.

Cleanup, use mineral spirits to remove stain from your hands, discard your stained rags inside a metal can full of water or construct inside a safe destination for a thoroughly dry to prevent a fire hazard. Discard stain can responsibility according to your local laws.

Denver House Painters | House Painting Denver

Processing your request, Please wait....