As a homeowner, you might be wondering, how much does it cost to stain a wood fence? After all, it’s always nice to have a good looking fence to compliment your property. To find out how much one will cost, is going to depend on the size of the job and the type of product you want to use. Either way, done correctly a stained fence will greatly enhance the decorative appeal to your home. After all, stained timber fences have timeless appeal and don’t have to break the bank. In this article we’ll look at the variables to consider in figuring out what you’re likely to be up for when it comes to staining your timber fence.
How Much Does it Cost to Stain a Wood Fence (on average)?
The average price that Americans spend on staining wood fences, ranges between $750 and $4000. Of course the price varies depending on factors such as
- the type of fencing material,
- length and style of the fence,
- the amount of prepping you will need to do beforehand so the product will bind to the timber
- labor costs (so if you’re doing it yourself you will save this cost)
- the kind of stain chosen as prices differ between brands
The good news is that you can also take up this project as a DIY and it will save you a small fortune in the long run. We have an amazing array of tools that will come in handy should you choose to do it yourself.
Cost of Staining a Wood Fence per Linear Foot
The type of wood used plays a major role in determining how deep you need to dig into your wallet. We have detailed the average cost per linear foot based on the most common types of wood fencing.
| Type of Fence | Cost per Linear Foot |
| Picket Fence | $4 |
| Wood or Cedar Privacy Fence | $7.5 |
| Shadow Box | $13 |
How Many Coats of Stain do I Need for My Project?
Be it a deck or fence, the amount of stain you will need largely depends on the wood’s condition. For example, if you have a new fence, a single coat should be sufficient. Older fences may have withered, which may affect how well the wood absorbs the stain. Generally, though, the rule of thumb is to apply as much stain as the wood can absorb, which in most cases is two coats. In rare cases, like using an extremely dense hardwood, one layer may be sufficient because of the wood’s absorption rate.
What Wood Stain Finish Should I Use?
Applying a wood stain gives your fence a beautiful color, but in most cases, it won’t leave you with the desired “wet” look after it dries. For this reason we recommend you add an appropriate finish to achieve a permanent wet look and to protect the wood from moisture.
Most homeowners prefer using Polyurethane finishes, which come in water-based or oil-based options. Both give your fence a rich and luxurious look, and will definitely have your friends and neighbors admiring your handiwork.
DISCLOSURE: AS AN AMAZON ASSOCIATE, WITH NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU, I CAN EARN FROM QUALIFYING PURCHASES.
Water-based Polyurethane Finishes
Pros:
- Most water-based polyurethane finishes give the wood a clear finish
- They have low odor
- They mostly accent the natural color of the wood. If you are not looking to hide the wood pattern and tint of your fence, go for a water-based polyurethane finish.
- It dries fast
Cons:
- You need to apply more coats compared to the oil-based finish
- They do not give off a vibrant glow as an oil-based finish would
- They are pricier
Oil-based Polyurethane Finishes
Pros:
- They leave a vibrant, good-looking glow
- Fewer coats application
- They are affordable
- They provide a more protective finish from moisture and UV damage
- Requires less maintenance
Cons:
- Has a strong odor
- It takes a long time to dry. In between coats, you need to factor in a lot of time, which means your project could take longer. If you are in a hurry, this may not be your best option.
- Whichever wood stain finish you use, you are sure to have a long-lasting and eye-catching fence that will add your home’s curb appeal.
Tips for applying Stain on Your Wood Fence
Whether you choose to hire a professional to stain on your fence or decide to make it your DIY project, these tips will give you a headway, so you aren’t green when you start the project.
- Choose the right time: Check the weather forecast before making any arrangements to stain your fence. Experts advise staining your fence on a cloudy day, ideally in the morning hours or late afternoon. Also, ensure that it is not forecast to rain 24 hours later after your application.
- Ensure you have picked the right-hand tools for the job: These range from brushes, rollers, pads, among others.
- Prepare the Fence: Prepping the fence is a very critical step in staining. Prepping means cleaning the wood thoroughly before you finally apply any stain on it. Over time, mildew and mold may have grown on the fence, interfering with the absorption of the stain.
- Finally, you can apply the stain on your fence based on your color preference.
What Are The Best Stain Colors For My Fence?
As a homeowner, you want your fence to stand out. However, picking the right stain color for your fence can be overwhelming, with all the attractive options available. There are factors you can consider that could help you tick your boxes.
- Do you belong to an HOA? It is essential to inquire about the acceptable colors as you make your decision.
- Does your home have a color palette? You want to choose a color that complements your home and not be too distracting.
- Your fence’s design and the surrounding environment. Your fence should stand out while at the same time blending in color to its environment.
- Wood has its natural color and personality. Depending on what you want, you may either go with a light shade tint or get a solid stain to cover. Obviously, the dark stain covers the wood completely while the lighter shades don’t.
Fence stains come in a range of exciting color hues, each with a unique mood. They range from browns, grays, blues, and bold reds. When working with wood, you need to know the different tools you will be using, so get familiar with those. Whether you are going for a modern or rustic look, be sure to check out the trending deck colors for inspiration.
It’s worth noting that stained fence will need upkeep as they fade over time and with the harshness of the sun. Keeping the maintenance uptodate will keep the fence both sturdy and appealing plus will keep the wood from withering. As your fence braves harsh weather elements, it will eventually looked aged and dull.
Overall, a beautifully stained fence is worth the trouble and expense. Stained wood fences can revive your backyard and give it a fresh pop of color which will no doubt be admired by those in your street.
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