How to Clean a Cedar Fence Before Staining?
If you have a cedar fence, the natural beauty of the wood can be preserved by staining it. It can make the fence look new again and prolong its life. However, you must clean the fence first before applying a stain. This will prevent the stain from leaking onto other parts of your property and causing it to look unattractive.
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STEP 1: CLEAN THE FENCE
Before you can apply a wood stain, the surface must be completely clean of any dirt, debris, or mildew. If you use a pressure washer to clean the fence, be careful not to use too much pressure or it could tear out chunks of wood. You may also need to apply a wood brightener to the fence after cleaning it to prepare it for staining.
STEP 2: REMOVE OLD STAINS
A good quality cedar fence can last for years and years when properly maintained and protected from the elements. But just like any wood product, the surface layer can start to darken with age and oxidize or deteriorate over time.
You should also remove any paint, rust, or other coatings that have worn off or rusted over the years. Once you have removed any paint or rust, you should sand down the wood to smooth it out and prepare it for staining. Light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper will also help the stain adhere better to the wood and reduce the likelihood of streaking.
STEP 3: PREP THE WOOD FOR STAINING
Once the surface has been cleaned and prepped, you will want to start with a good-quality oil-based stain. Oil-based stains are best for exterior use as they offer superior UV protection, absorb better, and last longer than water-based stains.
STEP 4: BRUSH THE FENCING WITH STAIN
To achieve a beautiful, even finish, use a brush to apply the stain. Choose a brush that will fit the texture of the wood. Whether you are using an oil or water-based stain, natural bristles work best as they hold more stain than synthetic ones.
STEP 5: APPLY THE STAIN
The key to achieving an even, professional-looking stain job is to move slowly and methodically. You must be consistent when applying the stain, ensuring that you apply an even coat to every board and side of the fence. If you try to apply the stain too fast or use a brush that is not sturdy enough, the stain will end up blotchy and uneven.
STEP 6: GET THE COLOR YOU WANT
A good quality fence can be stained in many colors, depending on your preferences and the type of stain you are using. If you are looking for a natural wood color, you should consider an oil-based semi-transparent or colored stain that allows the grain and texture of the wood to show through. This will enhance the natural beauty of the fence and provide the highest level of protection against sun damage and weathering.
