Even legends such as Robert Frost once said: “Good fences make good neighbors.”

Well, having a boundary does not really necessitate excellent companionship; they do have their benefits.

From keeping the children safe to adding a layer of privacy and security to your beloved household, there are several advantages.

best fence stain

You know if anyone wants to rob you, why not make it a little harder for them, right?

The irony of this discussion is that the protector we were lauding not too long ago also needs protection.

The protection you get from a fence is a vice-versa deal; you give some, you get some.

Most of the fences are made of wood and includes different types of fence colors.

Wood is quite vulnerable when it is up against weather, which leads to rot, and weakening of the structure and the ideal way to take care of this is to get yourself the best deck stain!

It can create a robust layer of shields that provides UV protection, prevent rotting and any other elemental damage that you can possibly imagine.

Therefore, today we will look into the available best fence stain, and point out the essential considerations before making a purchase.

08 Best Fence Stain List For Your Fence:

Image Product Details   Price
backpac #1 Deck Premium  Item Weight : 8.27 pounds
Product Dimensions :
‎7.5 x 4 x 12 inches
Material :
Wood
Color :
Light Walnut
Part Number :
‎300518
Check Price
backpac
Roxil Wood Protection
Item Weight : ‎12.8 ounces
Product Dimensions :
7 x 7 x 7 inches
Material :
Wood
Check Price
cordlessblower Wood Defender Transparent Item Weight : 45 pounds
Product Dimensions :
‎‎12 x 12 x 14 inches
Material :
Wood
Color :
Cedar Tone
Part Number :
‎‎WDTFS5GCT
Check Price
cordlessblower Armor AR350  Item Weight : 41.9 pounds
Product Dimensions :
‎16.5 x 13.5 x 13.5 inches
Material :
Solvent based
Color :
Clear
Part Number :
‎‎‎1
Check Price
cordlessblower SEAL-ONCE NANO Item Weight : 8.84 pounds
Product Dimensions :
‎ 8 x 7 x 7 inches
Material :
Wood
Color :
Clear
Part Number :
‎‎‎‎SO7214
Check Price
cordlessblower Storm Protector Item Weight : 8.83 pounds
Product Dimensions :
‎‎9 x 7.25 x 7 inches
Material :
Wood
Color :
Pacific Redwood
Part Number :
‎291113
Check Price
cordlessblower Olympic Stain 421037  Item Weight : 1.06 pounds
Product Dimensions :
‎‎3 x 5 x 9 inches;
Material :
Siloxane
Color :
Clear
Part Number :
421037
Check Price
cordlessblower Sashco 67575 Transformation Item Weight : 9 pounds
Product Dimensions :
15 x 8.3 x 7.5 inches
Material :
Sashco
Color :
Brown Tone Medium
Part Number :
‎67544
Check Price

8 Best Fence Stain Reviews

While countless products inundate the market, and thousands of manufacturers keep boasting about their goods, we present a select few. Here you will find all the necessary information you need to make an informed decision.


1. #1 Deck Premium Wood Fence Stain – Editor’s Choice

#1 Deck Premium Wood Fence Stain

The Deck Premium Fence Stain by Saver Systems are one of its newest models that are currently ruling the market.

This multiple purpose product is the best wood stain and sealer that not only good for wood but also can be applied on decks, wood siding, gazebos, fences.

Moreover, the fence stain gives a semi transparent finish and includes a unique mechanism that enables it to penetrate easily into the wood. This permeation into the wood increases its durability and provides proper coat protection.

However, the wood stain can efficiently protect your fences against harmful UV rays from the sun,  and general decaying of the wood.

Since it is a water based best fence stain, it can prevent the growth of mildew, mold, algae, and other harmful materials.

Furthermore, the wood fence stain is quite easy to apply. It is suitable for both damp surface and dry wood, but you need a one-day preparation to use it.

Also, the reliable wood stain comes in different colors, such as natural cedar stain colors, light walnut, natural, darker color cedar. But, the dark walnut fence stain is most favorite to most of the users.

However, before applying the fence stain, you have to make sure that the fence is completely clean and without dirt. After using it, you can sweep and clean the fences regularly.

When the surface starts to develop, you can brighten it up with a bit of soap and water. It has a comparatively low VOC than other similar products.

Pros

  • Gives a natural and aesthetic appearance to the surface.
  • Works as both the decking stains and sealer.
  • Suitable for damp and dry wood.
  • Affordable and durable.

Cons

  • Inappropriate for hardwoods.
  • Not suitable for indoor objects.
Pros
  • Seeps deep into the wood.
  • Application is completely easy and effortless.
  • Highlights wood grain and beauty.
  • Prevents mildew and mold.
Cons
  • Need to get adjusted to the odor.
  • Not eco-friendly.

2. Roxil Wood Protection Cream Fence Stain – Best Value

Roxil Wood Protection Cream

Let us introduce you to another best fence stain brand, the Roxil wood protection cream. It’s a waterproof wood stain that’s white when applying on the fence.

But as soon as it dries, the white cream disappears like nothing is used on your fence.

However, the colorless cream makes it breathable and gives colorless protection after you stain wooden fence. After utilizing the primary layer of the stain properly, you’ll find there’s no formulation of drip on it.

Using a roller or brush is the best way to apply fence stain. Fortunately, you can apply the Roxil wood cream with both of the common equipment.

Nevertheless, the roller is most convenient to apply such decking stains on the deck within minimum time. Here are the easy steps of staining the deck with a roller.

However, the wood stains like Roxil protection cream also reduce the molds from the wood and prevents further growth. Besides, the stain application creates an invisible barrier on a wood fence that lasts more than ten years.

Pros
  • Seeps deep into the wood.
  • Application is completely easy and effortless.
  • Highlights wood grain and beauty.
  • Prevents mildew and mold.
Cons
  • Need to get adjusted to the odor.
  • Not eco-friendly.

3. Wood Defender – Transparent Fence Stain – Premium Pick

Wood DefenderTransparent Fence Stain

The Wood Defender Transparent Fence Stain is an oil-based stain that comes with many unique features.

It contains refined trans-oxide pigmentation, which can reveal and highlight the wood grain efficiently even after you have applied the decking stains.

The pigments have been reduced to such fine particles that they have become highly resistant to harmful UV rays from the sun.

Therefore, the fence will not decay or rot quickly. Instead, the best-weatherproofing wood stain will increase the durability of your fence.

You don’t need to apply the stain more than once; just one lap of coating will be sufficient enough for the wood fences.

That’s why the fence stain is suitable for redwood fence or a new cedar fence where the stain will highlight the surface’s beauty.

It is available in four different fence stain colors, such as cedar tone, redwood, oxford brown, and leatherwood.

Among them, redwood is one of the most popular fence stain colors 2022. The Variety of shades and efficient features makes it best for staining.

Thus, you can choose any of these for your fence. It is relatively easy to apply with a roller, a paint sprayer, or a brush.

If you have a fence that measures up to 80 feet, four of the five-gallon cans will be sufficient to stain both the outside and your fence. It gives a flawless finish without overlapping streaks or marks.

Pros
  • Seeps deep into the wood.
  • Application is completely easy and effortless.
  • Highlights wood grain and beauty.
  • Prevents mildew and mold.
Cons
  • Need to get adjusted to the odor.
  • Not eco-friendly.

4. Armor AR350 Solvent Based Acrylic Sealer

The Armor AR350 wood fence Sealer, is a solvent-based non-yellowing acrylic that can efficiently darken up pavers and concrete to give them a glossy and wet appearance.

This is the best fence and deck stain sprayer for any wooden surface.

If you want a sealer that can provide a glassy and natural look to your paver driveway or patio made of concrete, then this product is totally up for that task.

It is not only applicable for patios and driveways but can also be applied to other surfaces.

For instance, you can apply the sealer on the warehouse floor, garage floor, pool deck, and fences.

It will especially make your fences appear shiny and beautiful. Furthermore, the fence stain and sealer is very easy to apply.

You don’t need any professional help to prepare or apply the sealer, so it is also ideal for amateurs. With all these fantastic features, the price is quite affordable.

The sealer acts as a self primer so you can even apply it to the unsealed paver and concrete surfaces and the places that had been already sealed with solvent.

It also helps reduce deterioration and damage, which is often caused by events such as pitting, cracking, and spalling.

The sealer has high durability and will last you for years before there is any need for recoating.

Pros
  • Can be easily applied with a sprayer or a roller.
  • Able to withstand all types of harsh weather.
  • The sealer dries out pretty quickly after application.
  • Ultraviolet resistant and breathable.
Cons
  • The odor is stronger than one might think.
  • Vague instruction manual.

5. SEAL-ONCE NANO Penetrating Wood Sealer & Stain

With the advanced penetrating technology, Seal is one of the nano penetrating wood stains is the best stain for the wood fences.

Despite being water based, the nano penetrating wood stain and sealer works like the oil-based wood stains. It increases the natural lifespan of the wooden deck. You’ll get protection against the water damage for more than ten years.

That’s why the fence stain worth the investment you make for it.

However, it’s also the best fence treatment that works against wood rot, mildew, staining, warping, etc. Use the sealant with the water cleanup and soap to save your valuable time.

Fortunately, the sealer is harmless for any lives, such as- pets, plants, or peoples. Also, you have 11 different types of available color options to choose from.

Pros
  • Protection against water damage.
  • Eleven different available colors.
  • Offers deep penetration.
  • Uses advanced penetration technology.
  • Doesn’t include any toxic chemical.​
Cons
  • Wood turn gray after some time.
  • Relatively an expensive product.

6. Storm Protector Penetrating Sealer & Stain – Deck, Fence Protector

Should I select the best fence paint or stain? If you are confused about this matter, the storm protector penetrating fence stain will change your idea.

With transparency, it’s the best oil-based fence stain on our list. The sealer penetrates deep into the wood and protects it from nature.

That’s because it doesn’t only work as the decking stains but also the sealers. Consequently, it can provide the best wood fence protection.

Unlike some other stains, the storm protector penetrating sealer is suitable for almost all types of wood. Most importantly, it’s known as the best stain for a redwood fence.

Within 24 hours, the best exterior wood stain and sealer gets ready for handling and re-coating. Apart from the stain fence, you can apply the stain on furniture, decks, siding, etc.

However, you can also use the fence stain through the spray applications. Whereas, most of the top fence stains are applicable through the roller or brush.

Pros
  • Lab-free fence applications and UV protection.
  • Exact product for the money.
  • Compatible for multiple wood species.
  • Provides highlighted natural beauty.
Cons
  • No complaint yet.

7. Olympic Stain 421037 Smartguard Concentrated Multi-Surface Sealant

Olympic Stain 421037 Smartguard Concentrated Multi-Surface Sealant

If you want the best water sealant for a wood fence, consider the Olympic stain 421037. The waterproof fence stain will allow you to enjoy your well-furnished deck in less than a day. Still, the durability of the waterproof protection is very high.

Unlike most other wood fence stain colors, the Smartguard dries within an hour; hence you can spend some quality time outside of the home without any hassle or disruption.

The Olympic fence stain is very easy and quick to apply by simply spraying on wood. Plus, it prevents the needs of the back brushing before applying the sealant on the deck. Consequently, it saves your time for back brushing the deck.

Surprisingly, the fence stain works excellently on the concrete patios, masonry along with the wooden deck. Whereas, most of the fence stains only works on the wood deck. Learn more, to stain your wooden deck.

Pros
  • A well-trusted brand. Easy to apply.
  • Advanced durability protection.
  • High water repellent.
  • Quick-dry within an hour.
  • Affordable price.
  • Multi-surface use.
Cons
  • Needs the fence applications nearly every year.

8. Sashco 67575 Transformation Deck and Fence Stain

 Sashco 67575 Transformation Deck and Fence Stain

When it comes to staining the cedar fences, the Sashco Transformation stain provides a better result than most other stains.

That’s what makes it the best stain for the cedar fence and deck. Regardless of the deck and cedar fence, it’s also an excellent choice for siding wood, interior and exterior stain. Why?

That’s because the stain provides a luxurious but deep finish to your fence and deck. It’s the best semi transparent wood stain; hence you’ll get a natural color with an elegant finish after applying it.

There’s no peel formula in this stain, and that’s why your fence stays beautiful year after year.

It might be a bit of an expensive stain. Nevertheless, after getting the rich finish, you’ll agree that the wood stain is worth its price. Hence, it’s the best fence stain to use on the wooden structure.

The time for drying stains over the fence should neither be too fast nor too slow.

Depending on the temperature and humidity, the Sashco transformation deck and fence stain need 24-48 hours for dry. It’s the ideal time for drying the fence stains properly.

Pros
  • No peel formula.
  • Exquisite and rich color portfolio.
  • Available long-lasting color.
  • Protection from oil with easy cleanup.
  • Ideal dry time- neither too fast nor too slow.
Cons
  • A bit expensive.
  • Absent of fence sealer.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Fence Stain- The Ultimate Buying Guide

Before you buy a wood stain for your fence, there are a few criteria that your product must fulfill to make your job easy and neat.

The best fence stain should have minimum drawbacks with maximum benefits.

best fence and deck stain
Image: stock.adobe.com

Types of Wood

efore buying any of the ideal wood stains, you need to know what kind of wood you will be using to your fence. For instance, the redwood fence and cedar fence contain more natural oils, so they need some time to adjust.

As they become adjusted, they can dry out and accept the particular stain easily. You should also be aware when staining treated wood fence, find out what it has been treated with, and choose the appropriate wood stain.

This is because pressure-treated wood requires a few months to dry out completely. After they are done drying out, they will be compatible with most fence stains.

Water Based or Oil Based?

When it comes to buying the best fence stain, there are two main options to choose from. Water based fence stains are known to dry quickly, and some also contain zinc nano particles, which makes them very resistant to mildew and mold.

There have been advancements in water based fence stains, and some can even outlast the oil-based ones. With the water based fence stains, you don’t have to worry about fumes or flames. We discussed oil based vs water based stain in another article.

However, the fences need to be prepped correctly before you apply a water based wood stain. But if prepared correctly, these fence stains will provide the most extended durability and a beautiful finish on your wood surface.

On the other hand, oil-based stains can penetrate deep inside the wood. They are also straightforward to apply. With these stains, you have better chances of getting a more leveled finish without the lap marks being visible.

However, oil-based fence stains need to be applied more often because they have less durability, but since they are easy to apply, this should not be much of an issue. The downside to using it is that it takes 48 hours for the stain to dry out after application.

You need to apply the oil-based wood stains with proper care because they contain flammable solvents and noxious flames. But the ingredients can seep through the wood and give it lasting protection.

Difference between Oil Based vs Water Based

Gel and Dye Stains

Besides water and oil-based fence stains, there are two other types of stains which are known as gel and dye stain.

Gel stains are quite similar to oil-based products. The only significant difference between them is that gel fence stains are thicker, and it makes applying them a little more complicated. However, the end results with a gel product are much smoother.

You should note that Lacquer finish fence stains dry is extremely fast and one of the best fence stain. It is somewhat good and bad at the same time. It will help you to finish your projects faster, but you will have a very small window to fix your errors while staining.

On the other hand, dye fence stains are quite different from the bunch. Usually, they are found as powders in the market, and you will need to add water before using them. They deliver good results due to the fact that the proportion of water and stain rests upon your hands.

The drawback to such stains is that they lack UV protection, which leads them to fade fast. However, you can always use a metalized dye fence stain as it doesn’t fade quickly.

Previous Treatment

If you have previously coated your fence with a solid color stain, then you need to be a little careful.

That’s because it is difficult to strip off the old fence stain to apply a new one, especially when you want to replace the solid deck stain with a semi transparent color.

In this case, you should put on a solid stain that has a darker shade than the previous coating. The best course of action is to look up details on how to deal with last stain treatment, or else there is a high chance of you messing it up!

Exposure to The Sun

Fences, like other wooden surfaces, are exposed continuously under the sunlight. Sunlight can be harmful to wood in many ways. Its harmful UV rays can directly hit the cellular structure of the wood and cause it to decay.

Without moisture protection, the decayed wood eventually leads to moss, mold, mildew, and other parasitic material. Therefore, you need the wood stains which can protect your fences from these damaging factors.

Whether Condition

You must consider the weather before purchasing the best fence stain for your wooden structure. Not every wood stain type is suitable to use in all kinds of weather.

Most of the stain takes much time to dry on your wooden deck during the rain and winter. Some stains provide worse performance during the excessive rain and sun rays, so those stains are used only indoors.

Consider the stains which can bear nearly any weather, especially when choosing for your exterior. It tends to be used for stains that include toxic chemicals. That’s because the toxic chemicals work best against the natural environment.

Health Safety

When you’re choosing a stain for the indoor applications, consider the wood stain, which is environmentally friendly. That’s because you’ve to spend most of your time indoors.

If you use the toxic stain for the indoor decoration, it might be threatening for you and other lives.

Sealant

Although most of the stain comes without sealant, there is some stain that includes sealant. Needless to say, that the sealant with the stain provides extended protection than the non-sealant stain. If you apply the sealant-based stain, you don’t have to apply sealant on your deck separately.

With the seal stain, you will get maximum protections against UV rays, pests and moisture. Whether you use the sealant-based stain on your indoor wood or not, you better consider it for the exterior.

So, look for a quality ready seal stain reviews before purchasing a stain.

Fortunately, in our list, more than several stains contain the sealant. So, if you consider it for your fence, you’ll not need additional sealant application. Nevertheless, the fence of your house will remain protected from the rough weather.

Opacity

The opacity of a stain the level that refers to how effectively the stain covers the wood’s underneath. To justify the opacity of the fence stain, you must consider the following facts in a stain.

How to Apply Fence Stain

Applying a stain on your fence can be a long or short process, depending on the type of finish you want. Let us have a look at the quick and easy fence staining methods.

how to apply fene stain
Image: stock.adobe.com

1. Inspect the Fence

First of all, you will need to examine the wooden fence and make sure it has an even surface. Sometimes, you may notice nails, screws, or stapes stuck on the surface wood. In the case of such, you will need to pluck them out.

You may also notice wood breakage or uneven spots, and before staining, you must sand adequately to make the surface smooth.

2. Cleaning the Fence

Afterward, you will need to clean your wooden fence. It is a simple process if you have a deck cleaner; however, there are multiple ways to clean your fence. The wood cleaner must be applied in a uniform and even manner.

Your next job is to remove all the debris, grime, and dust away with a mop or soft bristle brush. Once you do that, wait for an appropriate time for the wood to dry properly.

3. Stain the Fence

Now you have to start the staining process. Staining is not that difficult, and you can do it yourself without the help of a professional. Use a brush, hand-pumped stain sprayer, or roller to stain your fence.

Make sure you apply an even coat on the wooden fence. If you witness blotchy spots on the surface, use a roller or brush to polish the areas.

4. Wait for the Stain to Dry

You are almost done with the staining process, and the only thing left to do is wait. It can take 24 to 48 hours, depending on the weather and humidity in your area.

The best way to apply stain to a fence is a lengthy process. It will take some time and hard work. However, if you want your fence to look the best, then we suggest you go with the extensive method.

How to Choose a Fence Stain Color?

Sometimes it gets tricky to choose the best stain color for wood fence. With all the different colors out there, it often feels overwhelming to choose just one of them.

However, choosing a color is not rocket science; so, there is no need to get overwhelmed. There is no right way of doing it, but once you note down the key aspects of how to choose a fence stain color, it is relatively easy.

how to choose a fence stain color​
Image: stock.adobe.com

The Available Colors

There are many colors available in the market, but that is not the important part. The crucial thing is the formulation of the stain product. A cheap product will fade in a matter of years; so, it is best if you avoid them.
You should get a stain with high solids. Once you do that, choose a color that complements your house the most.

The Type of Fence

If you prefer a modern look, then selecting a staggered color or gray might be ideal. In order to have a staggered look, you will need to use more than one color for your fence.
On the other hand, if your goal is to have a ranch rail fence, then go with a dark brown or black fence. You can also try out other dark and deep colors for such fences.
For a privacy fence, warm and standard colors are most suited. Dark brown, rich redwood or warm cedar are good options that you can look into.

Considering the Look of your Home

If the fence is around your home, then first check the color and look of your home. Once you do that thoroughly, choose a color that can complement the aesthetic of your house.
Sometimes, you would want to stain a perimeter fence. It means the fence is around a commercial property or neighborhood. In cases like that, going for a darker color is optimal.
You can also try out semi-transparent or transparent stains for your home fence. It will give an overall wet look to the surface.

Compliment your Yard Features

Before you choose a fence stain color, you must have a close look at the features of your yard. If the color of your fence doesn’t complement the yard’s features, it will end up looking messy and ugly.
Therefore, consider the colors and features of the patio stone, pergola, or garden shed in your yard. Afterward, you decide what colors may suit properly with the entire look of your front porch.

Don’t Let your Fence Steal the Glory

Your wooden fence cannot or should not be the focal point of your home. There may be a pool, stellar landscaping, or a beautifully decorated deck. Those are the things that should be the focal point of your property.
So, take our advice and don’t choose a color that may draw attention away from the best parts of your home. The fence’s color should complement the other things in your yard, not the other way around.
Honestly, there is no particular best fence stain color. It depends on the items around your wooden fence. For some people, warm and light colors may be the right choice, and for others, it can be dark and deep colors.
So, any color you choose has the potential to be optimal for your fence; even a transparent stain has the capability to be the best clear fence stain.https://youtu.be/XibPpMziLZ4

Types of Stains

We already know that stains can be categorized by the materials they are based on. However, we can also sort stains by their transparency level. Typically, there are four types of stains. Let us have a glimpse to know more about them.

type of stain​
Image: stock.adobe.com

Solid Stain

A solid stain that looks like paint creates a complete layer on the fence. Indeed, such types of stains are vulnerable to chipping and work amazingly against the sun’s UV rays. Having the best solid stain for fence at your beck and call can help you revitalize the fence around your house. The same principle mentioned for fence stain applies to a deck as well. So, if your deck has lost its charm, we suggest you look into our take on the best solid deck stain for some ideas.

Semi-solid Stain

These Stains are also suitable for covering the natural color and wood grain of the fence. Similar to solid stains, these stains are also good for UV protection.

Semi-transparent Stain

With the light layer, the semi-transparent stains cannot create a thick layer on the wood grain.

After the application of the stain, the wood grains and color are more noticeable to the eyes and that’s why it cannot provide much protection against the sun likewise, solid stains, nevertheless, it doesn’t mean that you won’t get minimum protection from UV lights while retaining the natural grain of the wood.

So, if your goal is to achieve both the sunlight, then you should have a look at our article on the best semi-transparent deck stain.

Transparent Stain

The transparent stains are mainly used for indoor wooden furniture. That’s because these stains contain the sealant, which is fit for water repellent.

Nonetheless, the stains cannot handle the sun’s UV rays; hence, they’re not so suitable for the exterior.

These types of stains are optimal when you are looking to reveal the natural grain of your wooden fence.

They will protect your wood from water damage and harsh elements of the weather, except for UV rays. However, some people prefer showing off the natural grain as its aesthetic value is incomparable.

So, it is wise to go for the best clear fence stain as it will keep the original look of the wood and protect it from the elements of the weather.

Benefits of Staining Fence

Often, stains require a little more to protect your wooden fences. It can be a sealant, finisher, shellac, dye, glaze, conditioner, an extra coat of stain, or all of them together.

how to stain a fence with a sprayer
Image: stock.adobe.com

If you want the stain to be perfect, then you will need to add a few things before applying it on a fence.

  1. You will need to add two coats of water based conditioners to limit the penetration of the dye.
  2. Mix two coats of dye powder with hot water and apply it to the wooden surface.
  3. Afterward, you will need to add two coats of shellac as it will seal the pitch of the wood.
  4. You can also use a glaze to get a gorgeous look.
  5. Use a semi transparent topcoat for the protection of the other layers.
  6. Depending on the size of the fence, apply one or two coats of stain.
  7. Use a finisher to seal the stain properly.

The above step by step method may come as a little expensive, but it is the best way to stain the wood fences, and the results you get will be outstanding. It is an excellent technique to take your staining to the next level.

What Makes a Fence Stain Better?

Often, stains require a little more to protect your wooden fences. It can be a sealant, finisher, shellac, dye, glaze, conditioner, an extra coat of stain, or all of them together.

If you want the stain to be perfect, then you will need to add a few things before applying it on a fence.

  1. You will need to add two coats of water-based conditioners to limit the penetration of the dye.
  2. Mix two coats of dye powder with hot water and apply it on the wooden surface.
  3. Afterward, you will need to add two coats of shellac as it will seal the pitch of the wood.
  4. You can also use a glaze to get a gorgeous look.
  5. Use a transparent topcoat for the protection of the other layers.
  6. Depending on the size of the fence, apply one or two coats of stain.
  7. Use a finisher to seal the stain properly.

The above step by step method may come as a little expensive, but it is the best way to stain a wood fence, and the results you get will be outstanding. It is an excellent technique to take your staining to the next level.

Common Question About The Best Fence Stain

How does a fence stain get its color?

The fence stain gets its color due to the pigment used in the stain. It’s a natural or synthetic material that is wholly ground for adding color to all product types.

Where to use a stain?

Regardless of the fence, most of the stain is used for the doors, trim, deck. Some quality stains are also applicable to the concrete patios, masonry, and so on.

You will be surprised after knowing how effectively the stain can be applied on concrete.

How much stain do I need for my fence?

Measure the entire occupied area of the fence; by doing so, you can quickly determine how many gallons of stain will need your fence.

Use a measuring tape to cover the whole area of the fence consisting and get the exact estimations. The manufacturer uses the square feet as the fence’s standard measure.

Why stain your wood fence?

A quality stain enlightens and simulates your older wooden components. When it comes to your wood fence, the stain puts life into it. Apart from these, there’re versatile reasons for using stain on your fence.

  • The stain protects the fence from the damage of UV rays and moisturizing.
  • The semi transparent wood stain enhances the beauty of the wood grains providing a completely transparent look.
  • The solid stain, which looks like dark brown fence paint, works its job of providing a long-lasting high-finish on the fence.

Does stain protect your wood?

Of course, the stain protects your wood from excess sunlight and some rough weather. Regardless of this, the stain also protects your wood from leakage, mildew, weather, etc.

How long will it last?

The longevity of the stain depends on which types of stain you’re selecting for your wooden fence. Regardless, the weather is also responsible for the lastingness of the wood.

Depending on the place, the solid color pigments last seven years or more than seven years.

How much grain do you want to see?

Whether you should recoat your fence or not depends on how more the wood grain can be seen. And the wood’s visibility depends on the thickness of your used pigment.

If your stain’s pigment is thin or less, you’ll notice the wood grain only after a few days. You needn’t have to go for recoat on your fence until the wood grain is unseen.

How many coats should I apply?

The number of stains coat depends on your wood type and the stain you’re using. If you’re utilizing a thin stain on your wooden component, you must apply more than one coat.

Conversely, one layer of the stain will be enough for your deck when using a thick nature stain.

Moreover, if you’re applying the stain on softwood, you must exceed a layer, although it’s a thick stain. Inversely, a layer of thick stain is enough for a smooth finish over the hardwood.

What’s the Difference Between Fence Stain and Fence Paint?

A fundamental difference between paint and stain is that the fence paint gets stuck on the wood’s surface without seeping inside it.

In contrast, the stain can penetrate deep into the wood grain, rejuvenating and protecting it from external factors.

The stain is also thinner than the fence paint so you can apply it with the help of an airless sprayer or a brush.

Also, you don’t need to use a primer before you stain the wood; you only need to clean the surface before applying it.

Is It Important to Buy A Stain That Has Low VOC?

Volatile Organic Compounds, also known as VOC, are very damaging to the environment because they release many toxic fumes, causing physical ailments to humans and animals.

So, we recommend that you buy a stain that has a low amount of VOC, and this will help your environment, your closed ones, and yourself.

All the products featured in our list are VOC-compliant. It means they contain minimal VOC and would not cause any significant hassle to the user and their surroundings!

Should I Buy A Fence Stain That Has High-Quality Pigmentation?

In general, the best fence stain includes high-quality pigmentation which is very essential for getting a long-lasting stain.

If the stain you purchase has top quality pigments, then it means that the color won’t wear out in a hurry. It will have higher durability and also ensures UV protection to the users.

Furthermore, enhanced pigments in the stain can also withstand extreme temperatures such as rainfall and snow.

When Should You Apply Stain on Your Fence?

If your fence produces dark patches after it comes in contact with water, it has likely been absorbed by the wood. This will cause the wood to rot.

Therefore, the dark patches on the fence indicate that it is time to start staining it. The water might also seep in when your existing stain has worn off, so you will know when to put on a fresh coating of stain.

How much stain do I need for my fence?

If you are working with small fences of 175 sq. feet or less, then a gallon of stain should be sufficient. The type of transparency doesn’t affect much in the staining process; so, you can choose either one of them.

For medium fences that cover up to 550 sq feet requires 2 gallons of stain. Finally, large fences ranging from 550 to 700 square feet will need almost 3 to 4 gallons of stain.

What is Cedar Wood Fence Stain?

The oil and water-based stain for cedar fence or other types of wooden fence is actually known as cedar fence stain. You can use the stain before or after the construction of the fences. Usually, it enhances or highlights the natural tone of the wood but sometimes gives the fence a completely unique look.

Nevertheless, in both cases, it will bring out the wood grain of the fence.

How to stain a wood fence?

Staining the wood fence is a quite complicated task for nearly all the amateurs. Here are some simple steps for the newbie regarding how to stain a wood fence.

Step 1: First of all, inspect the outside temperature before starting to stain your wood.

Step 2: Inspect the wooden fence, and make sure there are no flaws in it.

Step 3: Afterwards, clean the fence with deck stain cleaner and make it ready for staining.

Step 4: Select the wooden stain which best suits your fence.

Step 5: With a small brush, apply several layers of the wood stain on the fence. Do forget to keep a gap of 2/3 days before applying the second and third coats of stain.

Regardless of this, there are multiple ways of staining your wood fence. Follow them to stain your wooden fence efficiently.

How to protect wood fences from weather?

You need to use the sealant to protect the wood fence from rough weather. If there is too much moisture in the air of your locality, use a water-repellent sealant.

Regardless, it’s compulsory to apply sealant on your wooden fence every 2/3 years. This step will make your wood stain long-lasting after application.

Can you Spray Stain on a Fence?

Yes, of course, you can. Spray staining is the fastest way to stain a fence. It makes the entire process more comfortable and less time-consuming. However, you are more susceptible to errors with a sprayer. So, make sure you know the method of spray staining wood.

How Often Should You Stain your Fence?

It mostly depends on how you are maintaining the fence. Poor maintenance will lead to damages to the wood; thus, it will need staining.

On the other hand, proper maintenance can enhance the lifespan of the stain, allowing you to go years without staining.

A stained fence preserves its beauty almost for 2 to 3 years. So, a well-maintained fence should be stained after every 2 or 3 years.

Final Notes

Most of the time, we take the fences around our home for granted. We solely focus on tending and beautifying the interior of our house rather than the exterior stain.

Fences are one of the crucial parts of a property since they help create an impression regarding the home and the owners.

To make sure that your fences stay immaculate all day long, you need an optimal coating for it. Having the best fence stain by your side, without a doubt, will go a long way to maintaining its durability. And without it, well, we will let you decide!

As Robert Frost said, “Good fences make good neighbors.” With that said, we wish you a happy shopping!