QA

How To Stain A Fence With Metal Posts

Can I stain metal fence posts?

We spray down the metal fence posts with mineral spirits. That way when the stain is applied the stain does not adhere to the posts and we just wipe the fence posts downs. Other companies will just leave you with splotchy stained fence posts. We cover plants so that they do not get damaged by any stain overspray.

How do you cover a metal fence post with wood?

Hold your wood board in front of your metal post, and determine how close to the ground you would like it to hang. Make sure it covers the top of the ugly metal fence posts. The loop will hang off of the top bracket or fence line. Measure 2 ½ inches below the spot where the wire will hang off of.

Should I stain fence before or after assembly?

Most installers will tell you to wait a period of time after installation to apply stain or paint. This is true, especially if you install with pressure treated pine fence posts. Just like a deck, it needs to dry before applying a finish.

Is it better to stain or seal a fence?

Unlike sealers, stains penetrate into the wood. Although a wood stain is more expensive than a sealer, it can last up to 5 times longer and looks more professional. So you certainly get your money’s worth. Here at DeckMaster™, we recommend using wood stains for your deck and fence maintenance.

Do metal fence posts need concrete?

You can install a chain link fence without using concrete, but it is not recommended. Anchoring each fence post in concrete is the best way to ensure your fence will stand straight and tall for many years.

Can you stain just one side of a fence?

A question that customers sometimes ask is whether both sides of the fence should be sealed. In reality, if one side of the fence faces a neighbor and they choose not to stain or seal their side will discolor and yours won’t, without this affecting the structural integrity of the structure.

How can I make my metal fence look better?

Paint It! – It seems so simple, but really, painting your chain link fence a color instantly makes it look more finished. Black, white, green, or a pop of color, I think a can of paint does wonders for this type of fence. Tip: Make sure you use Rustoleum or some other type of rust resistant paint intended for metal.

How many coats of stain do I need for a fence?

In most cases, solid-color stains are like traditional paint and need just one coat to protect your fence. Semi-transparent penetrating stains often need two coats, with the second coat applied approximately an hour after the first coat.

How many gallons of stain do I need for a fence?

For a small fence, up to 175 square feet, you will only need one gallon of stain, in any transparency. If your fence is larger, up to 550 square feet, you will need to buy 2 gallons of stain. For very large fences, up to 700 square feet, you will need 3 to 4 gallons of stain to complete the project.

Can you stain a weathered fence?

Fences usually face severe weathering, so expect the finish to last no more than three years. Before recoating, wash the fence with a garden hose sprayer and use a bristle brush on stubborn dirt deposits and stains. Let the fence dry and stain it using the same method.

Do you have to put a clear coat over stain?

Do You Have to Put a Clear Coat Over Stain? Coating over stain is not obligatory, but it’s necessary for the protection of the stained wood. While staining wood creates richness and depth of color, it provides no long-term protection.

Can you paint your side of your Neighbours fence?

Your neighbour doesn’t have to change a wall or fence just because you want them to, for example making it higher for privacy. You can’t make changes to your side without their permission, such as painting it. If the wall or fence seems dangerous, point this out because your neighbour might not be aware.

How long should fence dry before staining?

Checking the Forecast Before Staining Staining your fence during the right weather conditions is key. Before you apply any stain or sealer, your fence needs to be free from moisture for at least 24-48 hours after cleaning it.

How deep should metal fence posts be buried?

The general rule of thumb when setting a post is that the depth of the post’s hole needs to be one-third to one-half of the actual above-ground height of the post. So, a six-foot-high finished post ideally needs to be buried three feet into the ground.

How do you prepare a fence for staining?

Clean the fence surface by applying a cleaner — a small solution of soapy bleach water may be all you need, but seek out a fence/deck cleaner for tough stains. Scrub with a stiff bristle brush to remove dirt, debris, and mildew. Rinse thoroughly with a high pressure nozzle attached to a hose or a pressure washer.

Does staining a fence make it last longer?

An exterior decking stain will bring out the natural color and grain of the wood and will seal and protect from moisture and sunlight. Stain will also make your fence last significantly longer. Plan on re-staining your fence every three to five years for optimal protection and beauty.

Do you need to clean a new fence before staining?

Before applying any type of finish to a fence, including stains, you need to remove any old finish(es) and remove any built up dirt, dust, grime or other substances from the fence. Pressure washing a fence before staining it will also ensure blemishes are removed that could show through the surface of the stain.