Get matched with top fence painters in Santa Fe, NM

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.

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.

Whether to brush or roll stain on wood depends on the project and your preference. Brushing is ideal for smaller, intricate areas and offers more control over the application, ensuring thorough coverage and penetration into the wood's grain. 

Conversely, rolling is efficient for more extensive, flat surfaces and can save time. However, it is not always the best fit for textured or uneven wood. Some projects may benefit from combining both methods, using a brush for detail work and a roller for broader areas. Ultimately, the choice between brushing and rolling depends on the specific requirements of your staining project.

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.