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If you have the time and the budget, we strongly recommend staining your fence, especially if it's looking a bit tired or hasn't been treated recently. While you may not see the same return on investment (ROI) as you would with a project like a kitchen remodel, staining a fence is one of the best ways to add a facelift to your property—a new fence stain adds serious curb appeal to your home. 

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.

If you want to achieve a deeper, darker stain color, wait 5 to 10 minutes before wiping it off. However, wipe it off faster for a lighter tone. When wiping off the stain during this part of the process, be sure to work in the direction of the wood’s grain for best results.

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.