Skip to content

When to Stain a New Cedar Fence | Factors You Must Know

When to Stain a New Cedar Fence

WoodenuKnow.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and may earn from qualifying purchases.

Cedar fences add beauty and privacy to your home or garden so installing a new one is a wise decision. It is possible for your fences to swell and develop cracks during rainstorms or when they are continuously exposed to moisture.

There is also the chance of damage from the sun’s UV rays and this can lead to fading and warping. To avoid all of these problems, it is necessary to stain or seal your cedar fence.

One important point to note is that you can’t just stain your new cedar fence however you like, you must know when to stain a new cedar fence. This will keep the wood in good shape and ensure that it appears its best at all times.

When to Stain a New Cedar Fence? Find Out the Answer

moisture meter

For its beauty and durability, cedar is often used in the construction of fences. When properly sealed and protected from the elements, cedar can last for a long time. 

When constructing a new cedar fence, many homeowners are eager to protect their investment by applying a coat of wood stain as soon as possible. This product functions as a wood defender.

After wood fence installation, it is important to allow the fence to completely dry prior to staining.

If the wood is still damp, the stain will not be able to penetrate properly, resulting in an uneven finish. In addition, fence staining too early can lead to problems with the drying and curing process, which can ultimately damage the wood grain.

For these reasons, it is best to wait for between 1 to 6 months after the fence is installed before applying any type of stain or sealant. The same rules apply when you install a pressure-treated pine fence.

Nevertheless, the specific timeframe will depend on the climate and weather conditions in your area. In humid climates, you should wait at least six months to apply stains to new fencing. 

This will allow the wood to dry completely and prevent the formation of mildew or mold. You may be able to stain your wood fence after only one month in drier climates.

By taking the time to do things right from the start, you can expect that your new cedar fence will look attractive for the foreseeable future.

How to Stain New Cedar Fences?

wood stain finishes range

Though staining a new fence will help to protect the wood from the elements. But the stain should be properly chosen and applied to get the desired outcome. 

If you don’t apply the stain evenly, it can create a blotchy appearance. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also lead to premature aging and deterioration of the wood. 

In addition, inadequate staining may not provide adequate protection against moisture and ultraviolet light. Therefore, knowing the proper way to stain your wood fence can be extremely advantageous for you. 

Applying the stain correctly will also save you time and money in the long run. Following the instructions below is all that you need to do:

Step 01: Purchase the Right Wood Stain

Utilizing the right kind of stain on a cedar fence is important in order to maintain the beauty of the wood and prevent it from damage.

There are many different stains on the market, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to read the labels carefully and choose a stain that is compatible with the type of wood you are using.

Cedar is a softwood, making it necessary to select a stain that will not be too harsh on the wood. In addition, wood fences are often exposed to sunlight and weather, so a stain should be selected which will resist fading and offer protection from the sun’s damaging UV rays.

By investing a little time in the selection of the right fence stain for your privacy fence, you can be confident that it will remain in optimal condition for many years to come.

Step 02: Collect the Materials and Supplies You Will Need

Applying a fresh coat of stain to a new cedar wood fence is crucial to maintaining its beauty and preventing it from deteriorating. 

But in order to do the job right, you need to have the proper materials and supplies on hand. To get started, you will need the following items:

For Cleaning the Fence:

  • Bucket
  • Water
  • Mild soap or detergent
  • Pressure washer
  • Scrubbing brush

Staining the Fence Requires:

  • The wood stain of your choice
  • Paintbrush and roller
  • Ladder (if necessary)
  • Protective clothing like gloves, mask, and eyewear

Step 03: Clean the Cedar Fence

Since cedar fences are left outdoors, they will likely collect dirt, dust, pollen, and other debris. It is therefore necessary to clean the wooden fence prior to staining. 

In a bucket, combine a solution of mild soap or detergent with water. Use this solution to scrub the fence with a brush. 

Once you have finished scrubbing, rinse the fence with clean water from a hose or pressure washer. Be sure to check the broken fence pieces and repair them before applying this product.

Step 04: Fully Dry the Fence

After you have cleaned the fence, it’s important to fully dry the wood before applying stain. 

If the wood is even slightly damp, the stain will take longer to dry and may not adhere as well. 

In addition, wet wood is more susceptible to mold and mildew. You should wait until the new wood fence is dry to the touch before moving on to the next step.

Step 05: Apply the Stain

Now that the fence is clean and dry, you’re finally ready to apply the stain on the exterior wood surfaces. Be sure to wear protective clothing, including gloves, a mask, and eyewear.

Start by pouring the stain into a bucket. Then, with a paintbrush and roller, apply the stain to the fence in long, even strokes. Work in small sections until you have covered the entire fence.

Upon completing the process of applying the stain, allow it to dry completely before allowing anyone or anything to come into contact with the fence

A second coat is required once the stain has dried. By doing so, the new wood fence will be evenly stained and protected.

Frequently Asked Questions:

There are many questions that people have when it comes to staining a cedar fence. Check out the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions below:

1. Will Staining My Fence Change the Color of a Cedar Fence?

ready seal

It is true that the stain will alter the appearance of the wood. The type of stain you choose will determine the final color of your fence.

2. What is the Best Time of Year to Stain a Cedar Fence?

Summer is the ideal time of year for staining cedar fences since the warmer temperatures help the stain to dry more rapidly.

3. What is the Ideal Temperature for Staining a Fence?

When applying the stain, the temperature should be in the range of 10 to 30 degrees Celsius. It will ensure that the stain dries quickly and evenly.

4. How Long Does It Take for The Stain to Dry?

Depending on the temperature and humidity, it can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours to fully dry the stain.

Conclusion

You now fully comprehend why it is necessary to understand when to stain a new cedar fence. By following the steps mentioned above, you can easily achieve a new and improved look for your new wood fence. Remember to select the right time of year and temperature to achieve the intended outcome.

2 thoughts on “When to Stain a New Cedar Fence | Factors You Must Know”

  1. I have 1780 square feet of cedar fence to stain. Our daily temperatures are between 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit. I will be using oil based stain applied with roller and brush. Is this temperature range ok?

Leave a Reply to Bob Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *