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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.

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.

A properly applied coat of stain will last between 3 and 8 years, depending on your climate. If you live in a place where your fence experiences a lot of moisture or high heat, your stain will last for a shorter period than in more temperate conditions. We recommend reapplying stain every 3 to 5 years to keep your wood in good condition.

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.