Does Painting a Wood Fence Make It Last Longer?
Painting can make your wood fence last longer. The paint creates a protective layer on the wood surface, preventing damage from outdoor elements.
You will have to repaint your timber fence after some time, though. Still, with proper paint selection and application, you won’t have to repaint as often.
If you’re considering painting your wood fence, this article explains the most important things you need to know about this maintenance technique.
How Does Paint Make Your Wood Fence Last Longer?
Wood fences have a long lifespan, but painting makes them last longer. Paint adds a layer of protection to the wood surface, shielding it from the following elements:
- Moisture. Rain, snow, and humidity can make the wood wet and swollen. Once it dries, wood contracts, giving your fence a warped and deformed look. Paint can prevent moisture from seeping into the wood, prolonging its quality and lifespan.
- UV rays. Prolonged sun exposure can weaken and break your wood fence. Exterior paints with UV protection will protect it.
- Pests. Termites, ants, beetles, and bees use wood as a food source or habitat. An infestation can easily make your fence brittle and unstable. Painting the wood can deter these insects and prevent them from causing damage.
How Long Does Paint on a Wooden Fence Last?
Paint on your wood fence can last 5 to 10 years, provided you prepped it well and used high-quality exterior paint. However, you should maintain and repaint your fence every 2 to 3 years to keep it in good condition.
The frequency of your repainting job depends on your area. For instance, if you live in a humid or windy region, you might need to repaint your wood fence more often.
Try this test to see if you should repaint your fence. Pour some water on your wood fence. If it beads up, your painted fence is still good. But if the wood absorbs the water, it’s time to repaint.
You should also repaint your wood fence if you notice chipping or flaking.
How Much Does Fence Painting Cost in Australia?
The cost to paint a typical-sized wood fence varies. Several factors can affect the paint job cost, including:
- fence height and length
- style of the fence
- prep work needed
- tree or shrub trimming needs
- number of coats of paint
- type of paint
- professional painting fee
- off or peak season
- painting technique and style (e.g. brush, roller, paint sprayer, one colour, mural)
In general, more complex and labour-intensive fence painting jobs cost more. Contact a reliable fence installer and painter to get an exact quote.
What are the Tips for Painting a Wood Fence?
When painting your wood fence, do it right the first time to save time, effort, and money. These tips can help.
1. Pick the right outdoor paint.
Do not use interior paint for an outdoor project, like a wood fence. Exterior paints are more resistant to peeling, cracking, and fading, which suit varying weather conditions.
A high-quality paint for exterior surfaces should be:
- acrylic-based: for faster drying and better paint adhesion (be sure to use a water-based primer)
- mildew resistant: for wood fences in extra humid areas
- UV resistant: for fending off sun damage
The paint colour is up to you, but choose something that complements your home and surroundings.
White paint is a classic favourite for wood fences. But you can always go for a black timber fence for elegance. Some homeowners also paint their fences with shades of grey, blue, or green to make their properties stand out.
2. Hire a professional paint applicator.
Getting a professional painter not only makes the paint job faster. It also ensures a longer-lasting wood fence.
Expert painters have the skills, tools, and protective gear to paint hard-to-reach fence corners. Their experience also means they can work with minimal wastage.
They can give valuable advice while you pick the right paint or painting technique. They work with great attention and precision, too.
3. Check the weather forecast before painting your fence.
Schedule your paint job during the warmer months for faster paint drying. Too cold or rainy weather will only ruin your efforts and budget.
Try not to paint the fence when it’s too hot. Extreme heat can dry the paint too quickly and prevent it from soaking into the wood properly.
Is It Better to Paint or Stain a Wood Fence?
Both painting and staining can make your timber fence last for years. However, either technique has pros and cons.
Staining your fence preserves the natural wood appearance, which is excellent if you’re going for a rustic, country-style appeal. However, you need to re-stain your fence more frequently.
Painting your fence covers the wood grain, but it offers better protection and resistance, which is ideal if your area has weather and pest issues. More paint colours are also available, making it easier for you to customise your façade.
Can You Paint a Stained Timber Fence?
You can surely upgrade your curb by painting over a stained wood fence. There’s no need to strip the stain, either. Choose a high-quality exterior paint and make sure the wood surface is clean.
Consult the Experts for Proper Wood Fence Painting
Painting wooden fences is an exciting and rewarding home project. Once done, it can instantly uplift your property and make it look brand new.
However, this task requires more than proper paint selection. You also need to prepare the work surface and know the right painting technique.
Make things easier by hiring an experienced paint applicator. With the help of a professional, you get a painted wood fence with the best, long-lasting finish.
Consult our experts if you have more questions about installing, painting, and maintaining a wood fence. We’ll ensure you invest in the right fencing materials that suit your property and area.