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Maintaining a composite fence is pretty straightforward, as it doesn’t require staining or repainting. To keep it clean, scrub the fencing with a composite deck cleaner or hot, soapy water. Use a soft-bristle brush for the best results, and avoid using pressure washers or sanders. Plan to clean your fence at least twice a year. Scrubbing the fencing in the fall and spring can help prevent mold and mildew growth.

Most gutter painting pros also specialize in complete home exterior painting. You may save by making your gutter painting part of the cost to paint the exterior of a house in its entirety. Many people have all parts of their home exterior painted simultaneously to keep everything looking equally fresh. Consider having walls, trim, porches, shutters, and doors painted as well.

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.

A cedar fence will actually last quite a long time even if you don’t treat it with stain. In fact, you can expect to get between 15 and 30 years out of an untreated cedar fence. However, if you want to preserve its color and extend its life, treat it with a combination stain and sealer every three to five years.