You will need a separate container for this mixture. How to stain a fence: DIY in 9 steps | Real Homes Stains can also drip excessively, causing stains to run down along the fence boards. Once the fence is dry, mix the stain according to the manufacturer's instructions and use a brush or roller to apply the stain evenly to the fence. After everything has dried completely, youre done! With proper preparation, application, and drying, youll be able to protect your fence and keep it looking great for years to come. From there, you need to pressure wash the outside to remove any damage. No matter the method you use, make sure to apply an even coat of wood stain to the fence. If youre using paint from multiple containers, mix it together in an empty 5-gallon container to ensure consistent color even if small color differences exist between individual paint cans. Tom has written for several blogs and magazines including bobvila.com, thisoldhouse.com, levelset.com, and more. Pour this mixture into a paint tray or other container. Be sure to give your fence a solid 24-48 hours to fully dry before staining! Pick the right brush or pad for the job. PPG Architectural Coatings Privacy Policy | You may also want to wear gloves to protect your hands from extended contact with the stain because it causes dry skin and irritation even if washed off immediately. Additionally, be sure to use a cloth that is lint-free so that you dont leave any residue on the fence. How to Stain a Fence - A Guide to Staining a Fence With a Sprayer Sprayers apply stain over large areas quickly. Take your hose and screw it into the water input nozzle on your pressure washer. Prepare the area around the fence. In addition to his professional life, Tom is also an avid baseball fan and coach. Before staining a wood fence, scan the weekly weather forecast and select a day with temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees, low to moderate humidity, and no precipitation expected for the next 24 hours. This can cause potential penetration or appearance issues, like drips or runs. You should allow each coat to dry for approximately 30 minutes before applying the next one. If you are re-painting, scrape off rough or flaking areas and sand along the grain of the wood. Use a 4-inch-wide trim roller to stain narrow surfaces and to cut in around fence boards; You can also apply stain with an electric cup sprayer. Sprayer: While maintaining an even distance from the fence (between six and 10 inches, preferably), spray the fence in an up and down motion. Clear out the workspace, and cover the surrounding areas like plants and vegetation using a clean cloth or newspapers to ensure that any stain which does not hit the fence does not go anywhere it is not supposed to go. Prepare the Fence As with any wood finishing job, the prep work matters as much as the actual application of the finish. Once the stain has had a chance to sink in, its important to carefully wipe off any excess. Before spraying the fence, it's important to test your spray pattern. Fences built using pressure-treated lumber should let the lumber dry out for a season before applying stain. We offer reviews and information on a variety of paint sprayers, from budget-friendly models to professional-grade tools. This helps ensure as much material as possible actually makes it onto the fence. If this is the case, start by scrubbing it with bleach and water. Ask This Old House solves the steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make house calls! In theory, according to Kunz, 'there isn't a better method overall (brush vs roller), it really depends on the type of fence you have for what will work best for you.' Tips for Staining a Fence | The Family Handyman Water-based stains penetrate well while allowing the fence to breathe. The easiest way to stain a playset is to use a Find out whats new from Wagner including product news, exclusive email offers, promotions and more. We may earn a commission from your purchases. See All Exterior Stain Colors Stain is available in a wide range of colors. Repeat the process until Stain has reached desired darkness. Safety Notice:Whenever operating spray equipment, take proper safety precautions, stay alert, and be mindful of potential hazards. Another tip is to pull the trigger to start spraying slightly off of the board, then spray the entire board, and keep spraying off of the board before releasing the trigger. How to Stain a Fence & Achieve a Professional Finish | Wagner I spend more time refilling my sprayer than I did actually spraying. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners. This means taking the time to clean the fence with a pressure washer and the appropriate cleaning solution. While some may think staining a fence can take an entire Saturday, with the right prep and a pump sprayer you can achieve gorgeous results in a very short amount of time. Follow these steps to properly stain your fence with a pump sprayer.
Cover the entire surface. Humidity is a huge factor when it comes to the drying time. Whether painting or staining, wash the fence as thoroughly as possible with a pressure washer and cleaning solution. Stain can also be applied during Fall weather before the temperature dips too low. Use a sprayer to stain a fence. With the right stain, you can choose a color that will match your homes exterior and create a cohesive look. What is Stain? In addition, it is important to clean up any spills immediately. Not only does it help protect the wood from the elements, but it also adds color and beauty to your backyard. Step 2: Wash the Fence. This will ensure that the stain has had a chance to fully penetrate the wood and give you the best possible results. Allow the stain to dry before applying another coat. Make sure to thoroughly saturate the wood with the stain, but be careful not to apply too much. There are three main tools used to stain a fence: a sprayer, roller and brush. Matt Kunz, President of Five Star Painting, explains that 'if your fence is older there's a good chance that it has mold, mildew, dirt and other debris that affects the way the wood absorbs the stain.' Be sure to wipe off any excess stain before it has a chance to dry. Whether your fence hasn't been stained in years or is brand new, it's important to keep the wood protected from the elements and looking great. You will need to clean and clear your fence: You cannot begin spraying a sealant or stain on your fence until youve cleaned it and cleared away anything up against it. Also, canvas can be too heavy for delicate flowers, whereas plastic wont weigh them down as much. No product will do your fence justice if it's been applied hastily or unevenly. Its meant to be used with stain and other thin materials, and has less overspray than other sprayers might with these super thin products.Best practices for stain spraying: If you are able to talk with your neighbors and set up a barrier on their side of the fence, you can stain all of the fence with no issue. We'll never share your email with anyone else. Discover how easy it is to DIY fence stain in this step-by-step tutorial for how to stain a wooden fence! Start at the top of the fence and wipe the stain onto the fence in even, horizontal strokes. It helps prolong the life of the fence and gives it a clean, fresh look. Start your coating journey off on the right foot with our beginner and buyer guides for helpful advice on selecting the best coating for your application. Lastly, remember you can change the direction of your spray pattern from horizontal to vertical . Make sure any new fence sections are completely dry. We understand how overwhelming it can be to find the right paint sprayer and all the information needed to make an informed decision. This allows you to build up the vacuum within the sprayer so you can spray it as needed. It took about three hours to stain spray two-thirds of the wood fence that isnt near a house. The pressure-treated wood many fence panels are made from starts out soaked to the core. This allows the stain to penetrate the wood and provide more even coverage. You might be wondering: what kind of repairs need to be done? Each has its pros and cons. Join This Old House Insider to stream over 1,000 episodes commercial-free. Just make sure to choose a brush that is designed for use with stain, and follow the instructions on the stain can for best results. This will make sure the first and last shot of stain arent too heavy in one area. You may need to use an angled brush for any places between the planks that need stain. All the loose grime should be cleaned away. ', Brushes are generally superior where it comes to fence staining. If you have trouble finding them, try checking with landscape supply or paint stores. Brushes are almost always a necessity. Keep them looking their best with a fresh coat of paint or stain to preserve and protect them from the sun and weather. Nothing. Ensure your paint sprayer always operates at maximum performancechoose genuine Graco parts. CAUTION: Always check the package for instructions and application advice. How To Stain A Fence (Quickly and Easily!) - Amber Oliver If rain is forecast, you will need to wait longer to make sure your fence isn't even a little damp. So the first step is stripping off anything thing has grown on the fence along with any surface layers of age. Staining a fence can also be a great way to give your outdoor space a unique look. Before you start staining a fence without a sprayer, you need to make sure the surface is ready for the stain. Start by cleaning the fence to remove any dirt or debris. This isn't as much of an issue for stain, honestly. Why Wont My Gas-Powered Pressure Washer Start? Some stain is meant to be applied with a brush and roller, and some areperfectly fine to apply with a pump sprayer. Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. Then apply the base coat of the stain. How to Stain a Fence - Bob Vila How to Stain a Fence Fast, even if it needs to be Refinished A stained fence will also look better for longer, as it is better able to resist fading, warping, and other signs of aging. The process can be difficult and messy but its worth it! How to clean a wooden fence (even without a pressure washer) 2 You will then need to remove any peeling paint or splintered wood. Buy Fence Stain Online You'll want to make sure that you get in all the crevices, and that can only be achieved with a brush. Anna is a professional writer with many years of experience. Do not bend your wrist as you work - keep the stain sprayer parallel to the fence. Looking for a fresh updated look in your backyard? This will help to ensure that the stain has had enough time to properly set, and it will also help to prevent any drips or runs. Allow the stain to dry before applying another coat. Dispose of soiled drop cloths, remove the painters tape from the slats, and reveal your like-new fence! After hosing down the fence, I filled my paint sprayer half way up . Wear protective gear such as gloves, safety glasses/goggles, spray sock (hood), hat, proper footwear, dust masks and respirators. How to Stain a Fence {Using a Sprayer} - Love & Renovations Installing a fence can increase a home's privacy, security, and property value, as . Repair chips, gouges, or cracks in the fence with wood filler. We at BestPaintSprayerz.com, are a team of passionate paint sprayer enthusiasts who are committed to helping others in the community. Apply stain to broad surfaces using a -inch nap roller. advice,how to stain,how to stain almost anything,stain questions, How To Stain Wood & Staining Advice expand_more. Stains also take longer to dry in the cold. If youre discouraged by the prospects, remember that good things come to those who wait. However, 'if you need to apply the stain to a smaller surface or an oddly shaped space then it's best to use a brush. The further away you get, the more likely you are to have overspray! Stain your fence whenever you see fit, whether its after one season or 100. Stain and sprayers are not always available at all home improvement stores. Prepare your paint brush by wetting the bristles lightly in a separate container filled with clean water, then use this moistened brush to apply Stain to fence boards. When spraying a fence stain or paint, spray along each board lengthwise, following the grain of the wood. Read Also: Best paint sprayer for deck stain. If you want to save time and use a roller, I advise you to go back over it with a brush before letting it dry. Smaller rollers can help stain individual pickets and areas low to the ground. Just use water. You will find the best tips for designing and arranging your backyard at this site. Go ahead and take the next couple of summers offyou earned it. Additionally, a stained fence will require less maintenance, as it is less likely to require painting or other treatments. Becka adds that 'Depending on the type of lumber your fence is made from and how long the fence has been installed, your fence may require more than one coat of stain. How to Stain a Fence - Staining Wood With a Brush, Roller, or Sprayer Next, consider the finish you want for your fence. To learn more about the cookies we use and how to change your preferences, see our Privacy Policy. Second, Stain the Fence Using a Paint Brush. hand-pumped stain sprayer. Extreme cold or moisture can prolong the drying time of wood stain, while the opposite extreme can dry out stain too quickly and leave behind unwanted lap marks on the fence. I promise, with your Wagner sprayer in hand, its a lot less intimidating than youd think!This sponsored post was created by Love and Renovations. For stubborn stains, consider a fence cleaning solution. Youll want to purchase a stain that specifically says it can be applied with a sprayer. Our experts in design and gardening are always up to date with the latest design trends, giving helpful advice. Heres how it works. Create a stunning focal point in any room with this easy DIY project. Hot weather can sap productivity, making a fence staining project drag on and on. Brush: Dip just the first three-quarters of an inch of the brush into the can and lightly tap off any excess stain. You should also take the time to cover the lawn, shrubs, and parts of the house you dont want to accidentally get stain on. Generally, 'fences built from cedar lumber can be stained right after construction. The biggest factors affecting the cost to install a fence include the size of the fence, materials, labor, and geographic location. It depends on the size of your fence and the type of stain you choose. Allow surface to dry completely. It's time to put down your paint brushes and rollers and pick up a Graco paint sprayer. This saves money by using less material. Start at the top of the fence and work your way down, brushing the stain onto the fence in even, horizontal strokes. Different types of wood require different types of stains, so it is important to select a stain that is appropriate for your fence. The stain will not dry like paint and it takes several days to cure fully after application. NY 10036. How To Stain A Fence - An Easy Fence Staining Guide - Olympic For best results pick a medium-sized brush, four or five inches long. First, Stain the Fence Using a Garden Sprayer. If you leave them to dry, they can be difficult to remove without leaving a residue. Stains can come in a variety of finishes, including semi-transparent, semi-solid, and solid. In some cases, it may be necessary to stain the fence. There are two main varieties: water-based and oil-based. Oil-based stains dont penetrate as well, but the layer of protection they add lets them last longer. Spray Entire Board. The only thing you really need to worry about is if youre near a house that the overspray could hit. It's perfect as a clear sealant to protect wood while letting you see the natural wood. Perfect for DIY homeowners, fixer-uppers or beginners looking for a fast and easy alternative to brushes and rollers. A clear stain will protect the wood while still allowing the natural grain to show through, while a semi-transparent or solid stain will give the fence more color. Once you have applied the stain to the fence, it is important to let it sit for a few minutes so that it can soak in to the wood. Finally, staining a fence is an affordable and easy way to add value to your home. Wait for early or mid-fall rather than the dead heat of summer. The stain will keep out leaves, dirt, and other debris to help prolong the life of your fence. The Control Pro sprayers can cover an 8 x 6 ft. privacy fence in less than a minute so you'll have your entire fence stained in no time. To get between the edges of each board use the edge of the brush's bristles. You want your fence clear of any sap, dirt, dust, or debris. 11 Ways to Make the Most of Your Towns Curbside 5 Ways to Prevent Cracks in Concreteand 1 Easy Fix, 50 Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do, A natural-bristle brush is the best way to encourage oil-based. She has a passion for contemporary home decor and gardening. In this article, well outline the steps you need to take to do a professional-looking job without a sprayer, including why you should stain your fence, how to choose the right stain, and how to apply it. As youre spraying, its a good idea to have a paint brush handy to brush out any drips or runs, plus work the stain into the wood grain. HOW TO STAIN A WOOD FENCE Instructions painting a wood fence There are a few different types of stains that can be used on pressure-treated wood fences. To do this, use a clean, lint-free cloth and gently wipe off any excess. If you spot mold or mildew deposits on the fence, prepare a solution of bleach diluted with water in a bucket. You can hand wash the fence all at once or in sections as you go, but . The right gear makes it easier. New York, The stain will drip off the fence at first but will become even as it soaks into the wood. And that's it. Step Two: Clean the Fence and Prepare for Staining. For best results pick a medium-sized brush, four or five inches long. Staining a fence is an important part of maintaining the look and longevity of your outdoor space. Becka recalls that he has personally had 'to clean neighboring homes and vehicles because of stain that has carried in the wind to neighboring properties. Again, allow the fence to dry completely before moving on to staining. The stain will protect against mold and mildew on fences that sit in moist areas or near water sources like ponds or creeks. 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/ Stain a fence without a sprayer? Once the second coat is dry, your fence should be fully stained. For more information, see Power Flush Video or refer to your Sprayer Operation Manual. Then turn and seal the lid counter-clockwise to create an air seal. Needless to say, stain spraying the fence saved a lot of time versus using a brush. (See below for a shopping list and tools. How to Paint or Stain a Fence Using an Airless Sprayer - Graco Inc. Stain and sprayers can also be purchased online.