When it comes to improving curb appeal, one can rarely go wrong with a brand new looking fence that has been stained. Fence staining, not only enhances the outlook of the property, it also has the functionality of helping to preserve the fence. If you want to significantly improve the exterior looks of your home and add some subtle sophistication, this guide will cover all the aspects of fence staining.
Why Fence Staining Matters
Fence is not only used as barrier or separator but as an addition to beautify the exterior appearance of your house. Over time, the fence is exposed to rough weather, and therefore, the used material gradually ages. This is why people should be willing to spare some cash to acquire the appropriate stain for the fence from professional service providers such as Austin Fence Staining to protect the fence and beautify it.
Good Paint
Since this kind of work is crucial to come up with the best outcome of work, it is important to select the right stain. Choosing the right stain is vital for the best outcome of the work. There are several types of stains available, each offering different benefits:
- Transparent Stains: These stains virtually eliminate color from the wood while highlighting its grain. They work well in instances where the grain and texture of the wood need to show, although they may only last for a while.
- Semi-Transparent Stains: This semi-opaque finish increases the richness of the color while at the same time revealing the grain of the wood. They often give character and personality to fences and other structures.
- Solid Stains: If you want a uniform color concealing the wooden grain, you should go for a solid stain. These provide good penetration and abrasion resistance, but may largely conceal the grains of the wooden material.
- Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Stains: Absorbs deeper than the water based stains and gives the most protection and long lasting to the wood as compared to the water based stains. Conversely, water-based will be easier to work on since they dry very fast and can be washed out easily, although they require more frequent applying than oil-based stains.
Preparation is Key
It is imperative that preparation is done right in order to avoid having an imperfect outcome.
- Repair and Sand: Check your fence and see which boards may be rotten, missing, or slightly loose, and fix them if possible. This will help make the wood smooth to have proper grip when applying the stain.
- Protect Surrounding Areas: Tape newspapers or plastic sheeting or position drop cloths over plants, shrubs, and other surfaces that may be affected by spillage.
Application Tips
The following tips will assist you while applying the stain to give you a professional look:
- Choose the Right Tools: Stain can be applied through brushing, rolling, and spraying techniques. The brushes are capable of handling details and small areas, rollers and sprayers work better on large surface areas.
- Apply in the Right Conditions: This means that the stain should be applied on a day without any rain when the sun is out, and the temperatures are moderate. Should not be applied when the sun is shining directly on exteriors or when it is raining as this may hinder the flow of drying process of the stain or its adhesion rate.
- Work in Sections: More so, paint in small sections, and do not paint to the area edges to avoid compromising on the thickness of the applied coat; follow the manufacturer’s directions regarding drying time in between coats of paint.
- Maintain a Wet Edge: When applying the stain, keep the surface wet because this will help you avoid visible lap marks.
Maintenance and Care
This implies that regular upkeep keeps your fence in excellent condition. Check your fence every year and retreat it when necessary. An added fence does not only beautify the beauty of a home but also adds to the value of the home.
Fence staining is a technique that can be used effectively to enhance the presence of your home exterior and safeguard the investment made on the fence. If you choose the right stain from experts like Austin fence staining, take the proper steps to prepare the wall and apply the paint properly. Whether you do the work or hire a professional, an expertly stained fence will exude character and elegance to your home.
