Handy Guide To Painting Wooden Fences in Boston, MA

There is a specific set of painting instructions for every kind of surface – one for metal, one for concrete, and one for wood.

Most homeowners are under the impression that all painting processes are one-size-fits-all, but this is a huge mistake – and a mistake that could jeopardize the overall quality of your coat of paint.

So, if you are currently planning to paint your wooden fences and would like to approach it correctly, here’s something you should definitely read!

Here’s a Handy Guide to Painting Wooden Fences.

1. Check the Weather and Plan the Timing

You should know that the fluctuating weather play a critical role in the outcome of any outdoor painting projects – including your fence painting project.

You’ll want to choose a day with the right conditions to ensure the paint adheres well and dries properly.

Here are some other tips to remember:

1. Ideal temperature range: Between 50°F and 85°F. This prevents the paint from freezing or drying too quickly.
2. Avoid rain and high humidity: Moisture in the air can interfere with the drying process and lead to peeling or bubbling.
3. Pick a windless day: Strong winds can blow dirt, debris, and dust onto your wet paint, resulting in a messy finish.

2. Prepare the Fence for Painting

You should know by now that proper preparation prior to any painting project is essential for a successful one – and the same goes for painting your wooden fences.

Skipping this step may cause your paint to flake or peel prematurely, among other related paint issues.

In preparing for your upcoming project, you should:

1. Clean the surface: Use a pressure washer or a garden hose with a scrub brush to remove dirt, mildew, and old peeling paint.
2. Repair any damage: Replace broken or rotting boards, and hammer down protruding nails. This ensures the paint adheres evenly.
3. Sand the wood: Use medium-grit sandpaper to smooth out rough spots and remove any remaining loose paint.

3. Choose the Right Paint

Given your project’s nature, you should remember to get the right kind of paint for your wooden fences.

You’ll want to specifically look for exterior paint formulated for wooden fences, to protect their structural integrity over time and increase their durability.

For raw or previously untreated wood, applying a primer first ensures better adhesion and prevents the wood from absorbing too much paint.

If you’re having a hard time determining which kind of paint you should be getting, fret not – the paint professionals at your local paint store will surely be happy to help!

4. Use Proper Tools and Techniques

While tips and tricks can take you far in painting your fences, using the right tools and mastering proper techniques will guarantee the best results.

Here’s what you’ll want to acquire and remember:

1. Invest in quality brushes and rollers: A 4-inch brush or roller works well for fence boards, while smaller brushes help with corners and edges.
2. Sprayer for large areas: If you’re painting a long fence, using a paint sprayer can save time and effort. Just be sure to cover nearby surfaces to prevent overspray.
3. Paint in sections: Start with the top of each board and work your way down to prevent drips from ruining your progress.

Remember that having the right tools and technique for your project will ensure that you’re not just wasting paint or your time for your project.

5. Maintain the Fence for Longevity

The process doesn’t end after your painting project – regular maintenance is needed and will keep it looking great for a longer time.

Here’s what you’ll generally need for maintenance:

• Inspect yearly: Check for any peeling paint, mildew, or wood damage at the start of each spring.
• Touch-up as needed: Keep leftover paint or stain for small touch-ups, especially after Boston’s harsh winter weather.
• Clean periodically: Wash the fence at least once a year to remove dirt, pollen, and mildew. A clean fence not only looks better but also allows you to spot issues before they worsen.

We are Total Pro Painters. As a successful, family-run business we’ve been providing commercial and residential painting services in the Boston area since 2010.

For painting inquiries, you can contact us at 774-509-0345 or send us an email at info@totalpropainters.com.

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