Using a pressure washer is the easiest (and most satisfying) way to remove years of grime from your wood fence. First, the old stain will need to be stripped and a wood stain stripper is used for this. When I first started rolling the stain on my fence, I used the rollers I had on hand. So after pricing it out 6 1/2 years ago we promptly gave up on the idea of spending $900 on fence stain. Step 1: Using Stripper. SIDE NOTE: Pressure washing the fence is ideal. We decided to stain the new fence we built ourselves after receiving a few estimate from co. Most fence repairs cost between $300 and $800, so you may have to budget a little extra for this task. In general, summer is the best time of year to stain your fence and you'll want to wait at least a month after staining your fence before applying any extra coats. You can choose one of many shades and styles to create a new look on your property. Once cedar has turned gray, there is no natural way of going back. Buy Fence Stain Online. Contact us today at (512) 990-2530 to receive your service quote. Once the stain or varnish has had time to fully dry, you can proceed to. Do so by applying two thin coats of the waterproofing sealer with a paintbrush. All Rights Reserved. Unless you particularly want untreated cedar wood, it's best to treat it. Rinse the fence off with a garden hose again. How To Revitalize an Old Fence With Ready Seal!! Last Updated: August 21, 2021 But one aspect is that cedar's lovely red turns a monotonous gray surprisingly quickly. After each layer of spray we rolled the fence with a small roller to really work the stain in and be sure it wasn't just sitting on top of the wood. It was perfect! Get a friend to help you paint the fence. It is now time to cleaning the fence. Step 1 - Determine How Much Stain You Need This will be a good area to invest in the pros, as inexperience with a pressure washer can result in injury and damage to your cedarwood. If you plan on using a spraying machine to stain the cedar fence, you will use more stain in the spraying process. Another option is to use a moisture meter to check it. Inhibitory Effects of Cedrol, -Cedrene, and Thujopsene on Cytochrome P450 Enzyme Activities in Human Liver Microsomes, Diagnosis of Western Red Cedar Asthma Using a Blood-Based Gene Expression Biomarker Panel. Here is the process of using a roller instead of a sprayer to restain a fence. Make sure that the rail only covers part of the fence post, leaving room for the rail on the other side. Fortunately, it is much easier than you think! Sometimes it may be best to go over any areas that have paint on the fence with a wire brush to remove the paint. Before starting the staining process, plan your project for when you have ideal weather. Alternatively, the cost to rent a pressure washer ranges from $35 to $175 per day. Next, use a roller to roll the stain onto the fence. Is packed full of tips and breaks down what you need to know when you buy your next power tool.
, /advice/How-To-Stain-A-Cedar-Fence/Choose-the-right-fence-stain, /cms/cms/getmedia/a5060f57-4e5d-4404-8b5d-c1467b4b99b4/fence_18.jpg?width=500&height=500&ext=.jpg, /advice/How-To-Stain-A-Cedar-Fence/Inspecting-the-fence, /cms/cms/getmedia/9f5f499c-cf22-450f-a499-c2c47441439d/hammer_6.jpg?width=500&height=500&ext=.jpg, /advice/How-To-Stain-A-Cedar-Fence/Cleaning-the-fence, /cms/cms/getmedia/1e6b5b6e-86fb-4de3-b977-cc8f1db307c9/deck-hose_5.jpg?width=500&height=500&ext=.jpg, /advice/How-To-Stain-A-Cedar-Fence/Staining-the-fence, /cms/cms/getmedia/7e111260-b276-4362-a4ef-a121f39a05d0/fence_staining_27.jpg?width=500&height=500&ext=.jpg, Learn How to Choose the Right Stain Finish, Get Olympic Premium Deck Brightener & Wash, Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain Colors, PPG Architectural Coatings Privacy Policy, CA Transparency in Supply Chain Disclosure, Product Cares Recycling Programs in Ontario. it's important to weigh your options carefully before making a decision. Fasten the pickets into place. If you want a nice even finish, you have some work to do first. If you encounter any of these problems, you will need to repair them. Otherwise, the stain might not adhere properly.

A: Having a cedar fence is an attractive add-on for any piece of property. Taylor and Francis+NEJM, doi:10.1080/15287394.2014.955906, Yang, Chen Xi, et al. The first is a bead test, which is . The number is 811. Trim back any grass, trees or plants that touch the fence and will interfere with the staining process. Our Team will respond within 24 hours if not today. Your Guide to Placing Fence Posts in the Ground. References. As a general rule of thumb, you should restain a wooden fence about every 3 to 5 years. This was an 7 year old cedar fence and the stain was. Staining the fence with a high-quality wood sealer or stain can help to protect the wood from these elements, and can extend the life of the fence. Paint's solids ward off light, and light is the main contributor to the deterioration of cedar. It's strong, long-lasting, and naturally water resistant, and makes an attractive addition to any property. You can also apply the stain with a brush and allow it to soak into the wood. When selecting a stain for your fence, think about how much of the natural wood gain you want to show, and how the whole fence will look once it is painted. Mix your concrete in a wheelbarrow so you can transport it from post to post without difficulty. Staining your cedar fence protects it from these problems, so it lasts longer and looks better. Exposure to sunlight, moisture, and other environmental factors can cause the wood to fade, warp, or crack over time. Crews will be less busy and prices are often much lower. Repeat until you've filled in each open section of fencing. Olympic hasa great selection of exterior wood stain colors,available in a variety of transparencies. SIDE NOTE: The stain I am using is goof-proof so I dont have to worry about drips or applying the stain continually. This will give you the best view of the fence's entire surface so you don't miss any spots. Be mindful of drips and uneven coverage; smooth these areas before the stain dries. If you put the power in power washer and youre no stranger to a paintbrush, you can save a lot by DIY-ing this job. To conclude cedarwood is one of the best options for fencing your yard. Follow this step-by-step guide on staining a cedar fence that will keep it fresh for years. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Make sure to allow the sealer to dry completely in between coats. Buy Fence Stain Online, You will need to choose both the right wood stain color and finish for your project. Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links or referral links for your convenience. However, if your fence is old and has gathered some dirt then it is better to clean it before applying stain it. TwoFeetFirst, LLC participates in various affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Cedarwood is famous for its durability and is, therefore, one of the best woods for fencing. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. by Kevin O'Connor, Host Play Video Share Video But over time, the weathered portion of the wood begins to splinter or flake away, exposing fresh wood to the elements. Read the label on the can to determine how much surface area the product will cover. To do so, combine three quarts of warm water, a quart of oxygen bleach, and a quarter cup of non-ammonia dish soap into a garden sprayer, and dowse the fence with the solution. If you can paint, then you are more than qualified for staining a cedar fence, but it is best to first understand the proper way to prep and stain for your . 
With a few simple repairs, a thorough wash with a power washer, and a nourishing coat of oil stain your fence will look almost like it did the day it was built. Make sure that your bracing material is ready to use on two sides of the post, including 2 stakes, 1x4-inch (2.5x10 cm) or 2x4-inch (2.54x5 cm) lumber, hammer, nails or screws, or an electric drill. When fully weathered, cedar takes on a light silvery-gray appearance. After taking the time to build a wooden fence around your property, youll want to protect it from the elements and make sure it lasts. Let dry (visually dry, doesn't need to be overnight). Does seeing the project on video help? Note: Be careful not to keep the spray in one spot for too long, as this might damage your cedar fence. Cedar fences can last for two decades without staining, but you wont be able to preserve their natural appearance. Pour the stain into a painting tray and dip your paintbrush into the stain. Spray with Remove product on with the sprayer. The upside is that solid color stains will block most of the damaging ultraviolet light. Maintaining your cedar's color is about choices, timing, and above all, the right type of treatment. MC Construction & Decks also provides plans and permitting services and is known for backyard beautification projects. You can find all kinds of painting supplies at your local hardware store, home improvement store, or online. By using our site, you agree to our. Allow for this additional wastage. How long do you have to wait to stain a new cedar fence? If your fence has a different stain than you are applying or the finish is chipping, you will want to look into a stain stripper. While cedar's properties make it naturally water resistant, a quality finish can be invaluable for increasing your fence's lifespan. https://bit.ly/2GPiYbHPlus, download our app for streaming full episodes to your connected TV, phone or tablet:https://bit.ly/34RYEP5Plus, download our FREE app for full-episode streaming to your connected TV, phone or tablet: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/pages/streaming-appFollow This Old House and Ask This Old House:Facebook: http://bit.ly/ThisOldHouseFBTwitter: http://bit.ly/AskTOHTwitterPinterest: http://bit.ly/ThisOldHousePinterestInstagram: http://bit.ly/AskTOHIGFor more on This Old House and Ask This Old House, visit us at: http://bit.ly/ThisOldHouseWebsiteHow to Stain a Wood Fence | This Old Househttps://www.youtube.com/user/thisoldhouse/ Usually, it depends on where you live and what type of stain you use. First, test the pressure washer in an area less visible to get comfortable with the equipment. $101-250 Introduction Make a gray, sagging wood fence look new again. Fret not, though: with a little stain, you can restore a faded wood fence to its former glory. The slivers of wood got stuck inside the nap, preventing it from rolling the stain on evenly. References. If the is fence made up of some pressure-treated materials, then you should wait for approximately 4 months to dry. Before staining a wood fence, scan the weekly weather forecast and select a day with temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees, low to. Follow these tips and instructions to turn your tired, old fence into a backyard statement piece. Join This Old House Insider to stream over 1,000 episodes commercial-free. However, if the water standing still on the woods surface, then your fence is not ready to get stained. After installing your exterior cedar, make sure to begin treatment before the wood starts to discolor. In many cases this just requires a simple application of a good . Stain the fence with the roller then use a brush to stain areas that the roller cannot reach. If it looks dried out or it is not repelling the water like it should, it might be time to restain your fence. atsjournals.org (Atypon), doi:10.1164/rccm.201608-1740LE. If the fence has any existing paint or stains, they will need to be removed. A cedar fence can provide beauty, stability, and privacy to any home or vicinity. Expert Interview. Moisture content of wood should be less than 12%. When we first built the fence, I used a paint sprayer to stain the fence. In the videos below we share two instances where the fence had been cleaned twice yet the residue was lightened but never completely removed. (See below for a shopping list and tools. Use a 3-4 inch flat brush to stain wide, flat panels of timber and a smaller 2 inch angled brush for narrow spaces between planks of wood. Dont stress, though: you can clean it up and restore it safely by following these steps. Cedar fences are the new trend in home design and are beautiful and elegant additions to any yard. Variance in monitor calibrations can affect the on-screen representations of our actual stain colors. If building a new fence, apply stain to the panels and posts. Youll be working outdoors for a long period of time, so make sure you also wear a hat and sunscreen to avoid getting sunburnt. In many cases this just requires a simple application of a good wood stain. A board-on-board fence is a classic and popular style of fence that provides both privacy and curb appeal. See All Fence Stains Untreated cedar fences can go for many years before they need to be replaced. When you're ready to proceed, there are a few effective ways for testing the level of moisture in the wood. Therefore, it is important to know what type of cedar is used for your fence, so you know how to stain it. Dont use a sprayer on a windy day the overspray will drift over onto the neighbouring property. When sawing, sanding, planing, or undertaking other activities with western red cedar, be sure to use a twin cartridge respirator, not a paper mask. Follow the instructions from the stains can on how to apply the stain. During this period the fence will become dry and ready to get stained. This is a gentle cleaner designed especially for exterior wood surfaces. If you want the gray, weathered appearance of naturally aged wood, but also want protection, you will need to take special efforts to make it look natural. Its a good idea to work from the top of the fence to the bottom in two to three-foot sections. 1. If its the end of the road for your fence, consider waiting until the fall or winter to install a new one. Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you. You might choose to make the tops of your fence's pickets even with the support posts, or lower them a few inches for a gradated look if your fence is built on a hillside. In addition, we serve the surrounding communities. unlocking this expert answer. Contemporary and stylish cedar fences are the new trend in home decor. To determine the ideal number of posts and spacing between them, try the following: measure the planned fence length (e.g., 75 feet (23m)); divide it by the maximum recommended post spacing (8 feet (2.4m)), and, if needed, reduce this divisor by regular intervals (e.g., 7.5 ft, 7 ft, 6.5 ft) until your result is a whole number (without decimals) or very near one (e.g., 7.5 feet (2.3m) for a 75 foot (23 m) fence). % of people told us that this article helped them. Stripping off the old stain. A fresh coat of cedar fence stain will completely change the look of your fence. However, the lifespan of cedar is also determined by a multitude of other factors such as its maintenance and environment. Certain types of cedar are also more susceptible to discoloration than others. Wear a dust mask if youll be applying stain with a spray machine. A new wooden fence can cost up to $3,000, and installing a wrought iron fence could cost even more. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. The pressure-treated wood many fence panels are made from starts out soaked to the core. With the type of stain we used, we just unscrewed the cap and poured it from the spout on top. In The Spring Time the Fence may look Old, Gray and Worn Out! Here's the best way to stain your wood fence. What Color Should I Choose For My Fence Stain? If you like the natural color of your cedar fence then staining and sealing are worth considering. Fence Restoration is what we do best find out why. Do you need to clean the new cedar fence before staining? Allow then your fence to dry for a month or two and then stain it properly. Develop the tech skills you need for work and life. You can do this by sanding the fence with coarse sandpaper and using a stain stripper. Certain types of cedar are also more susceptible to discoloration than others. Measure the first post you set to confirm that it's the right height. Because of cedar's large pores, it is necessary to prime the wood before painting it. The string will create a tripping hazard, so move carefully around your work site to avoid tripping. The following procedures should prove helpful: New Wood Now, how long you should wait before staining your cedar fence? That way, you'll be able to simply assemble the separate pieces once they've been properly measured and positioned. Cedar is a durable wood that is naturally resistant to rot and decay, but it can still be damaged by exposure to sunlight, moisture, and other environmental factors. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b1\/9436250-1.jpg\/v4-460px-9436250-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b1\/9436250-1.jpg\/aid9436250-v4-728px-9436250-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"