PROTECTING WOOD

How to Stain a Fence

fence

PROTECTING WOOD

How to Stain a Fence

STEP 1

Choose the Right Look and Protection

The first step in protecting your fence is to determine if it's time to re-treat your surface. Performing the splash test will help you decide. Splash water on a small area of the fence and if the water is absorbed rapidly, darkening the wood, it is time to re-apply a clear waterproofer or exterior stain. If the water beads up or otherwise remains on top of the wood, then it does not need protection at this time.

In addition to protecting the wood, the type of waterproofer or fence stain you use can make an aesthetic difference in your landscaping. Therefore, when choosing a stain for your fence, you need to consider the characteristics of each type and the definitive look you want to achieve. We have a variety of Thompson's® WaterSeal® Exterior Wood Sealers to choose from.

A new fence should be protected as soon as possible after installation. Another option would be to waterproof or stain the boards before installing.

TIP: Whatever product you choose, read the label carefully, follow the manufacturer's instructions, and apply using the specified brush, roller, paint pad or sprayer.

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Old Deck Prior to Staining, Closeup
STEP 2

Clean Your Fence

All exterior wood, from decks to fences to siding, should be cleaned before sealing, staining or painting. Cleaning is a crucial step to long-lasting protection. It removes the discoloration that makes weathered wood unsightly and will improve the durability of a waterproofer or stain. Before cleaning, protect your eyes, skin, plants and other stationary items in the area. While cleaning, use an appropriate cleaner, power-washer, or a combination of the two, to remove stains from dirt, mildew, mold, algae and prior finishes.

Follow product label application instructions carefully. Allow the formula to sit on the fence for the time indicated on the product label, usually 10-15 minutes. Next, scrub the surface using a stiff bristle brush to remove all elements and then rinse thoroughly.

Avoid lap marks by applying the waterproofer or stain along the vertical boards, moving from top to bottom and working on one or two boards at a time.

For best results, use an exterior paint pad with a long handle.
To prevent lap marks, keep the leading edge "wet" and distribute the finish evenly. Brushes are particularly effective in tight or hard-to-reach spaces.
Follow package directions to clean tools with either mineral spirits or soap and water. 

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Old Deck Prior to Staining, Closeup
STEP 3

Time to Stain

Use Thompson’s Water Seal Wood Sealer. There are many colors and transparencies to choose from. The color of the wood can actually affect the look of some stains, so definitely test the stain in an inconspicuous corner of the deck or on scrap lumber to ensure you like the color. If it looks good, go ahead and get started!

The color of the wood can actually affect the look of some stains, so definitely test the stain in an inconspicuous corner of the deck or on scrap lumber to ensure you like the color. If it looks good, go ahead and get started!

You can use a roller or a brush to apply coatings, but we recommend a roller on the long pole. Stain can be sprayed on, but if you use a sprayer, be sure to go back over the stain with a paint pad, brush or roller to work it into the wood and help keep the color uniform.

DON'T FORGET TO READ THE INSTRUCTIONS on your product! Not all products work exactly the same, so be sure to read and follow the instructions found on your can.

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Old Deck Prior to Staining, Closeup

Applying Stain

  • When you're ready to stain, dip the roller into the stain and squeeze out the excess by pressing it against the top edge of the pan. Start applying the stain to just a few boards at a time. Don't put it on too thick. One thin, even coat does the job.
  • Keep working in small areas before moving on - this way, the leading edge of your stain stays wet, avoiding lap marks when the stain dries. It's okay to go back over your work and catch any spots you missed and to be sure the stain is worked into the wood.
  • One coat is enough, but if more color is desired, a second coat can be applied within two hours before the first coat has dried.
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Old Deck Prior to Staining, Closeup

Tools for Staining

  • Painter's Tape - tape off any areas of the house that are right up against the fence
  • Paint Pad or Roller - this will go on the end of the same pole used for scrubbing the deck
  • Brush - for railings or tight areas 
  • Paint Pan - to hold the stain
  • Many deck stains clean up with soap and water, but check the label instructions and pick up paint thinner for clean-up, if needed.

Transparency Options

Deck boards with water beading and no additional color.
Clear

Crystal-clear sealer maintains wood's natural color.

Deck boards with water beading and just a touch of color.
Transparent

Adds subtle color and shows the most wood grain.

Deck boards with water beading with moderate stain color and visible wood grain.
Semi-Transparent

Adds moderate color and shows medium wood grain.

Deck boards with water beading and rich color that obscures most wood grain.
Solid

Adds the most color and shows the least wood grain.

How To's

Deck boards with water beading in a light color.
Protecting Wood

Make sure your deck gets the outdoor protection you want and the seal of approval it deserves.

EXPLORE PROTECTION
Can of Thompson’s WaterSeal® sitting on deck.
Picking the Right Products

On the fence about fence protection? We got you.

EXPLORE TIPS
Stained outdoor staircase with woods in background.
FAQs

We not only protect wood surfaces — but concrete, brick, masonry, and more.

EXPLORE FAQS