If you have an untreated wood fence, it’s best to treat and seal it with something. But is it better to paint or stain a fence? Moisture is the biggest threat to your wood fence, and paint and stain both offer good protection. So, let’s look at other considerations to help determine which option is best for you.

Is it easier to paint or stain a fence?

As far as application goes, stain is generally more forgiving than paint. Painting a fence requires primer and then multiple coats of paint to achieve a uniform look. If your wood fence has a rougher texture, stain will definitely be easier to apply, even if it requires a primer. 

Is it cheaper to paint or stain a fence?

Gallon for gallon, stain is typically less expensive than paint. Even if your paint is similar in cost to the same amount of stain, it will still cost more up front because it takes more coats of paint to get good coverage on your fence. But, stain must be reapplied much more frequently than paint, so the cost evens out over time.

Does it last longer if you paint or stain a fence?

As we mentioned above, stain needs to be reapplied more frequently than paint (every 2-3 years for stain vs every 5-6 years for paint), but stain tends to age better than paint. Paint will chip, peel, and bubble as it ages, while stain will just gradually fade. In this case, longevity depends on how you look at it.

Does it look better if you paint or stain a fence?

This is completely up to your taste. Yes, you want to consider how the paint or stain will look as it ages, as we described above. But regardless of how it will look in a few years when it’s time to reapply, what kind of look do you really like now? Do you want to see the natural grain of the wood? Obviously, stain will be the way to go. But if you want options and a wide selection of colors and sheens, paint can’t be beat.

Whether you decide to paint or stain your wood fence, be sure to use quality materials and prep the fence thoroughly beforehand (pressure washing is best) so you can get the most out of your hard work, and your fence! And if you need help with your fence repair, we're only a phone call away! Contact us for more information about our fence maintenance and repair services.