Get matched with top fence painters in Mimbres, NM

The general consensus is that two coats of stain are required and since the cedar is siding, a third coat of sealant is always a good idea. This helps protect the wood and stain, so you won’t need to resand and restain for at least a decade. Each stain after the first will darken the wood, so be aware of that when choosing a colored stain.

Wood stains last anywhere from two to five years, depending on exposure to the elements, your local climate, the type of stain, and the surface it’s on. For instance, vertical surfaces last longer than horizontal surfaces. Some types of woods, like dense hardwoods, will require a recoat yearly, as they are too dense for the stain to absorb. In any event, apply a recoat every 2 to 4 years. As for storage, a can of unopened stain can last up to 5 years, though results may vary.

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.

The easiest way to stain a fence depends on your experience and comfort level with the project. Applying stain with an airless sprayer or pump sprayer might get the stain job done faster, but it can be tricky. Paint rollers and stain brushes are slower but simpler for a DIY project.