Outdoor Fence and Deck Painting with Benjamin Moore Stain

Is it Better to Paint or Stain a Fence?

There are a few things to consider when deciding between painting or staining a fence, and it largely depends on what the surface is made of. The most common fencing materials used by Calgary homeowners are vinyl, wood, and metal, with wood being the most popular. 

Wood

Choosing between staining and painting a wooden fence depends on whether you like the look of the natural wood grain. Exterior wood stain can enhance the wood grain and bring out its natural beauty. Paint, on the other hand, hides these features and changes the look altogether.

Metal

A good primer helps with paint adhesion and acts as a rust inhibitor. Remove any debris or rust with a wire brush and sand the fence to remove any peeling or chipped paint, and give the paint a rough surface to stick to. Choose a fast-drying Benjamin Moore paint available in a variety of sheens. 

Vinyl

Paint needs all the help it can get to adhere to vinyl surfaces, so always use a quality primer. Before choosing your colour, take a look at Benjamin Moore’s vinyl-safe colour palette and use REGAL® Select Exterior Paint for top quality and superior coverage.

How Long Should You Wait Before Painting or Staining a New Fence?

Do You Need to Seal Both Sides of a Fence?

Stain and paint experts agree, for maximum wood protection, staining or painting both sides is recommended, but it is not always possible. If you wait the recommended three to four weeks for new wood to dry, you’ll avoid potential warping. In this case, painting or staining just one side will be okay.

Find the Best Exterior Wood Stain at Your Local Calgary Paint Store

Deck or fence painting in Calgary? Check out our featured Benjamin Moore Arborcoat Exterior wood stain with its numerous finishes, like:

• Ultra flat
• Flat 
• Solid
• Semi-solid
• Semi-transparent
• Translucent
• Clear coat
• Classic oil finish

These waterborne stains bring out the natural beauty of your fencing, decks, and siding with no streaking, drying to a flawless finish.

Get trusted advice and premium products at Benjamin Moore Crowfoot.

Speak with an expert today to ensure your next interior or exterior paint project is a complete success.