How to Seal Cedar Fences?
If you have a cedar fence, you may want to seal it to make it last longer. Sealing cedar fences will give it an added layer of protection against moisture, rot, and mildew. The best way to do this is to purchase a quality stain and sealer. These products will help address two of the most common causes of deterioration in cedar fences: UV rays and rot.
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There are a number of different stains and sealers to choose from. To find the right one, consider the condition of your fence, how frequently it is exposed to the elements, and the life expectancy of your fence. If you have a fence that is regularly exposed to rain and other harsh weather, you may need to reapply the sealer more frequently.
For cedar, you can choose between semi-transparent and solid color stains. Semi-transparent stains are more resistant to fading, but they can also leave minor imperfections behind. In contrast, solid color stains let the grain of the wood show through. In addition, they provide an opaque finish, and block the worst ultraviolet light.
Before deciding on a stain and sealer, check the product label to see what type of pigments are used. You’ll want to avoid those that use cheap, low-quality pigments. Instead, opt for ones that contain automotive-grade pigments, which offer better resistance to UV rays and have a higher degree of permanence.
In addition to the right stain and sealer, you will also need to take the time to clean and repair your fence. In general, you should clean the fence annually. If you have older wood, you should remove any old paint or varnish, as well as any mildew or mold.
You can clean your fence by hand or with a pressure washer. In addition to water and chemicals, you’ll need to wear safety glasses and rubber gloves. If you choose to power wash, be sure to go at least 18 inches away from the fence. You’ll want to keep the nozzle horizontal so that it doesn’t etch the wood.
If you want to protect your fence from rot and mold, you’ll need to apply a stain that contains oil. The best oil stains contain natural oils that will stop rot and insect infestation. You can also buy products like Anchorseal to seal your fence posts.
Before applying the sealer, you’ll need to sand your fence. If it has blue or black stains, you’ll need to remove them by scrubbing them with an oxalic acid solution. This will help the wood absorb the sealer better.
After cleaning your fence, you’ll need to wait about four to eight weeks before staining. If you wait too long, you risk the stain drying out too much. In most cases, you’ll need to apply more than one coat of sealer. It can take as many as three or more coats to complete a fence.
A good fence sealer should be easy to apply, provide UV protection, and protect against mildew. You can purchase these products at your local home improvement store. However, you may need special tools or experience to do this job properly.
