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Staining or sealing a cedar deck or fence is highly recommended to extend its lifespan and protect it from the elements. While cedar is naturally resistant to mold and mildew, it is not impervious to damage from moisture, sun exposure, splintering, fading, and rot over time. Applying a protective finish creates a shield that preserves the wood's strength and appearance, potentially extending its life by five to 10 years.

When choosing a finish, it's helpful to understand the difference between a sealer and a stain. A sealer sits on top of the wood, whereas a combination stain and sealer soaks into the top layer. Because it penetrates the wood, a stain generally offers better protection against UV damage and rot and lasts significantly longer. For the best results that also preserve the wood's natural color, consider using a near-translucent stain.

To maintain protection, plan on reapplying the stain or sealer every two to three years, either as a DIY project or by hiring a professional.

For homes in areas with extreme weather, high heat, or intense sun exposure, high-quality acrylic paint is the best option. Acrylic paint is durable, resistant to both heat and cold, and provides a protective barrier with excellent UV resistance. For best results, look for acrylics that contain natural earth pigments, which are better suited for resisting sun damage. While oil-based paint is also durable, it can be prone to fading in high heat and can become too viscous to apply easily in cold temperatures. Additionally, choosing a neutral or light color like gray, beige, or white can help, as these colors absorb less heat than darker shades.

There are several ways to make a wooden fence more visually appealing and keep it that way for years to come.

• Treat the fence with a wood sealant to protect it against the elements. It’s recommended to reseal a fence every two to three years, but if you live in a harsh climate, you may want to do it more frequently than that.

• Restore the fence if it’s old, corroding, or fading. That includes cleaning it and making small repairs where needed.

• Paint the fence in a color that you like, whether that’s a simple white or more vibrant option. Fences usually need to be repainted every one to three years.

• Decorate the fence with planters, string lights, birdhouses, mirrors, shutters, and more.

Choosing the best color for your home exterior should factor in longevity as well as your personal taste. To keep your house looking newly painted as long as possible, stay away from red paint. Although red homes pop and are quintessential for country-style barns, red paint tends to fade fastest in the sun. Go with earth tones if you want paint that best resists fading.