Painting a fence can be a satisfying and cost-effective way to improve the look of your garden.
What’s more:
It’s a relatively straightforward DIY project you can easily complete over a weekend so long as you have the right tools and materials.
At Good Build Superstore, we’re here to show you exactly how to paint a fence like a pro and take your garden to the next level.
Table of contents:
How to paint a garden fence
Before you can get to the actual fence painting, you’ll have to choose a paint that is specifically formulated for outdoor use and is designed to be durable and long-lasting.
Look for a paint that is water-resistant and provides UV protection to prevent fading. You’ll also want to choose a paint that is appropriate for the material of your fence. For example, if you have a wooden fence, you’ll want to choose a paint that is formulated for wood.
Good Builds pro tip: For a bright, contemporary garden, use a complementary palette of fence paint colours.
And it’s time to get to work!
Step 1: Prepare the fence
How do you prepare a fence for painting?
Start by removing any dirt, dust and debris from the surface of the fence. You can do this with a pressure washer or by scrubbing the fence with a solution of water and detergent. If you have any mould or mildew on the fence, you’ll need to treat it with a solution of bleach and water.
Next:
You’ll need to sand the fence to remove any loose or flaking paint, and to create a smooth surface for the new paint to adhere to. Use medium-grit sandpaper and sand in the direction of the grain.
Step 2: Protect surrounding areas
To protect the surrounding areas from paint splatters and drips, you’ll want to cover any nearby plants, surfaces or objects with plastic sheeting or drop cloths. This will prevent the paint from getting on anything it shouldn’t.
Step 3: Apply the paint
Now it’s time to apply the paint. You’ll want to use a paintbrush or roller that’s appropriate for the type of paint you’ve chosen.
Not sure?
Check this out:
If you’re using latex or acrylic paint, you can use a synthetic bristle brush or a foam roller. If you’re using oil-based paint, you’ll need to use a natural bristle brush.
Start by painting the top of the fence, then carefully work your way down to the bottom. Use long, even strokes to apply the paint, and be sure to overlap each stroke slightly to ensure even coverage. If you’re using a roller, don’t forget to use a tray to apply the paint and avoid overloading the roller.
Step 4: Allow the paint to dry
After you’ve finished painting, allow the paint to dry completely before removing the plastic sheeting or drop cloths. This may take several hours, depending on the type of paint you’ve used and the weather conditions. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times.
Step 5: Apply a second coat of paint
Once the first coat of paint is completely dry, you may want to apply a second coat for added durability and a more even finish. Follow the same steps as before, being sure to apply the second coat in the same direction as the first.
Step 6: Clean up
After you’ve finished painting, be sure to clean up any tools or materials you’ve used. If you’ve used a brush, clean it with soap and water, or a specialized brush cleaner if you’re using oil-based paint. If you’ve used a roller, you can clean it with soap and water or simply dispose of it.
That’s it! Take a step back and admire your freshly painted garden fence!
Final thoughts
Painting your fence is a great way to freshen up your garden.
What’s more:
It’s a fun and easy DIY project that the whole family can become involved with.
And now that you know how to paint a fence, nothing can stop you from giving it a try at the first opportunity.