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?
2 Answers
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!
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!
What do you think about using boiled linseed oil instead of stain? Any major differences?