When to Seal Cedar Fence?
Sealing cedar fences protect it from weathering, water damage, and pests. It also keeps it looking beautiful and prolongs the life of the wood.
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Whether or not to stain cedar depends on your personal preferences and the condition of your fence. If your fence is in a hot climate or exposed to harsh conditions, it will need to be sealed more often than fences in cool or sheltered environments.
Staining helps keep your fence from fading to light gray, and it blocks the ultraviolet rays that cause the deterioration. It also prevents mildew growth.
You should use a high-quality fence stain that is oil-based and semitransparent so it will penetrate into the wood. You should apply a coat of the stain at least yearly. The type of stain, the amount of sun exposure, and the wood’s texture will affect how often you need to reapply it.
Before you stain your fence, make sure that it is clean and free of dust and other contaminants. This can be done by scrubbing it manually with a stiff brush or power washing it. It may also be necessary to use a wood brightener, which gets rid of mill marks and glaze on new wood.
Then, wait at least 24 hours before applying the stain. You can spray it on, but you should not let it dry for more than an hour, or the stain will become dark and difficult to remove.
If you decide to use paint for your fence, be sure to prime it before painting it, as this will ward off the deterioration caused by sunlight. It is also important to use high-quality exterior-grade acrylic latex paint that is designed to resist mold, rot, and termite damage.
It is best to choose a lighter color that will last longer than a darker color. It is also a good idea to use a stain with a built-in sealer.
You should re-seal your cedar fence every 3-5 years, depending on the weather and location of your fence. Inspect it regularly, repair damaged areas, and wash it annually.
