How to Remove Stain From Cedar Fence?
Staining a cedar fence is an easy and effective way to preserve its natural beauty, protect it from the elements, and extend its life. But before you can apply a coat of stain to your cedar fence, it needs to be cleaned and prepared for the job.
(Searching in Google “cost of wood fencing“? Contact us today!)
Cleaning a Cedar Fence
First, thoroughly clean your fence with water from a power washer or hose. Make sure the pressure is set at 1500 to 2000 psi and use a soft spray, so as not to damage the wood.
You should also use a diluted bleach solution to remove mold and mildew spots that may have grown on the fence. You can find these at your local home supply store.
After you’ve gotten rid of the dirt, mold, and mildew, dry your fence completely. Spread tarps at the base of your fence to prevent water from getting into the ground and soaking up your fence’s new stain.
Apply a Light Coat of Stain to Your Fence
Next, coat the fence with a light-colored wood stain in small sections. You can also choose to go with a darker color that will enhance the fence’s overall look.
The color of your wood stain will depend on how much you want to change the fence’s appearance, as well as how often you plan to maintain it. It’s generally recommended that you seal or stain your cedar fence about once per year, preferably before winter begins to protect it from the elements.
If you’re looking to keep your fence’s color fresh and new, try applying a stain every two to three years. This will help prevent the wood from becoming too dark or yellowed, which can happen as a result of weathering and exposure to sunlight.
Choosing the Right Fence Stain
When you’re selecting the type of wood stain to use, consider its penetrating ability and color retention. Oil-based stains are the most penetrating and can last longer than water-based or gel stains. They also offer better UV protection than water-based stains, which means you won’t have to worry about your fence’s appearance becoming faded or stained by the sun’s damaging rays as much.
To protect your new stain, you can apply a coat of clear, protective sealer on top. This will protect the stain from weathering and rot, and also keep insects and other pests from getting into your fence.
You can buy sealers at your local hardware store or paint store. They’re available in a variety of types and colors, including transparent and solid opaques. If you want to add a little extra color or vibrancy to your fence, you can also opt for a semitransparent stain that will let some of the wood grain show through while preventing it from becoming too dark.
Using a Paintbrush to Apply Wood Stain
The best way to apply wood stain is to use a paintbrush. Dip the tip of the brush into the stain, and then start at one end of your fence, working your way along the vertical slats in small, 3-foot sections. Continue in this fashion until you reach the bottom of your fence.
