I'm considering whether or not to bother staining or sealing my new cedar fence here in Maryland. I'm a bit hesitant about the added expense and hassle, but I want to know if skipping that step will really cut its lifespan down significantly. What do you think?
3 Answers
I have a cedar shadow box fence that I never stained or sealed, and while it’s gray, it’s holding up fine structurally. I’ve also got a pine fence that I did seal after it dried out for six months, but honestly, I've noticed some warping. So, if you don’t mind your fence aging naturally, it’s still viable without sealing, but it won’t last as long. Just know cedar can hold up for 20+ years without being sealed, just looks different!
Trust me, sealing or staining your fence is a must! It can really extend its lifespan and prevent that annoying graying. I’ve been a contractor for years, and I recommend renting an airless paint sprayer from Home Depot. Apply two coats of a wood sealer, but make sure to do it wet on wet - that way the second coat absorbs properly. You’ll thank yourself later!
What do you think about using boiled linseed oil instead of stain? Any major differences?
I've worked with a ton of fences and I wouldn't use a sealer that leaves a film on the surface because it can trap moisture and look bad after a few years. I usually go for Cabots timber oil; it penetrates the wood and helps make it water-resistant. Just reapply every five years and you’re golden!
That’s a good point! I live in a wetter area, so untreated wood might not make it as long.