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Yes, staining or sealing a cedar deck or fence is highly recommended to extend its lifespan, typically by five to 10 years. While cedar is naturally resistant to mold and mildew, it can still fall victim to moisture, sun exposure, and rot over time. Applying a treatment creates a protective shield that helps prevent splintering, fading, and decay, preserving the wood's strength and appearance. A combination stain and sealer often provides the best protection, as it soaks into the wood grain rather than just sitting on top. This offers superior defense against UV damage and rot and lasts longer than a sealer alone. To maintain the wood's natural look, consider using a near-translucent stain. You should plan to reapply the stain or sealer every two to three years.

Manufacturers use a different process and formula for exterior paint versus interior. The exterior formula has to withstand elements like temperature, UV lighting, moisture, wind, and debris. Interior paint doesn’t need to be as tough, only exposed to dust, scratches, dents, scuff marks, and the like.

Acrylic latex paint is the best option to use on your outdoor wrought iron fence, because it holds up well against the elements. Use a high-quality, exterior-grade paint specifically designed for use on metal. You can choose between spray paint or regular liquid paint. As for primer, it's best to use an oil-based and rust inhibiting option before painting your wrought iron fence.

While power washing isn't a requirement before you stain a fence, it can make the job much easier and faster while reducing manual labor requirements. The stain will not work if the wood is full of dirt and dust, so power washing, sometimes called pressure washing, is a fast and effective way to prepare the wood for staining. Remember that you need to stain or repaint relatively soon after the wood has dried so that there isn’t time for dust and dirt to build up again.