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Is it time to paint your fence? Aside from making it look more attractive, a fresh coat of paint or stain on a fence can help protect it from the elements. It’s a big job, but if you know when and how to do it, you can easily paint your fence yourself.

You’ll probably notice when your fence needs repainting. It will start to look weathered and worn, and you might start to see some areas with significant damage. You should probably repaint your fence every two to three years, but the main thing to look for is moisture. The right paint or stain will prevent moisture damage, and you can check to see if it’s still working by looking at it after a rainfall. Is the water beading up on the surface or has it soaked in? If it’s soaking in, it’s time for a fresh coat.

When the time comes, do you know what kind of finish you want to use? The choice between paint and stain is largely subjective, so you can do whatever you think will look best and weather well. Painting is less expensive but needs to be touched up more frequently. Staining is less expensive per gallon, but you’ll need more stain than paint, so the job will end up costing more. However, because stain fades rather than chipping, you won’t have to redo it as often.

Once you’ve done your homework and chosen the right paint or stain, it’s time to get started. Before you start the job, ask a friend or neighbor for help- do this well in advance so they have plenty of notice. Plan to work on a day with good weather, when temperatures are moderate and humidity is low. Make sure you have all the equipment you need, then follow these steps to complete the job.

  • Properly prepare the fence. Remove old pieces of paint and any dirt, using a scraper or a pressure washer. It’s important to have a clean surface so that the paint will adhere properly. Scraping is the most effective way to remove stuck on paint and debris, but using a pressure washer in short bursts can knock off loose paint. Wash the fence with a hose once you’re done scraping, and allow it to dry completely before beginning to paint.
  • Time to prime. Protect the area around the fence with plastic sheeting, and then apply a primer. Priming the fence is important because it protects the wood and creates a better surface for adherence. Make sure the primer is completely dry before you apply any paint.
  • When it’s time to paint, you can use a brush, roller, or spray gun. It’s a good idea to start with the top trim and horizontal pieces, then move on to the pickets. Use sweeping strokes to apply the paint evenly, and then finish off with a clear coat to protect your paint from the elements.

Of course, there are some problems that can’t be fixed with a new coat of paint. If your fence has been attacked by pests like termites, you’re better off getting a new one. And while some fences can be spruced up with just a few replacement boards, if more than 25 percent of the boards need repair it’s probably time to go ahead and spring for a new fence.

If you’re ready for your new fence, call Paramount Fence for professional installation. At Paramount, we’ve been in business for over ten years, but our combined experience in the fence industry spans more than half a century! We’re a full-service fence sales and fence installation business in the Chicagoland area, and we’re dedicated to providing creative and affordable solutions that address our clients’ needs and fulfill their requests. Our staff offers exceptional customer service, striving to exceed your expectations throughout the fence buying and fence installation process. We provide high-quality, beautiful fences, and our reputation for excellence is well-established. Paramount Fence is a member of the American Fence Association and a registered member of the Better Business Bureau. For more information on how we can help you find the right fence to meet your needs, call us at 630-239-2714 or contact us through our website.