If you want to paint your fence, you’ll have to prepare it properly first. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare a fence for painting, choose the best paint, protect your plants, and estimate the cost. Here are some tips to make it easier for you. And don’t forget to read through our other articles to learn more about painting a fence. And don’t forget to bookmark this page, because we’ll continue adding more tips to the list.
Preparing a fence for painting
When preparing a fence for painting, there are several things you should do. First, it is important to check the weather forecast and pick a day when no rain is expected within 48 hours. You should also start painting early so you can avoid the hottest or wettest weather. Painters in Ballarat in direct sun can cause the paint to dry too quickly and not provide the proper protection. Second, you should paint the fence in sections, not in one continuous application.
Next, you should remove anything that may be near the fence, such as patio furniture or garden plants. If plants are in contact with the fence, prune or pin them back. You should also move any other furniture out of the way. After you have cleared the area, cover it with plastic sheeting and place an old bed sheet on top. Be sure to secure the sheet underneath the fence to avoid drips of paint. Using a tarp or other protective covering, you can also paint the panels at once.
Choosing the right paint
There are a few different types of paint to choose from when painting a fence, including oilbased and water-based formulas. Oil-based formulas have the advantage of lasting longer than water-based ones and are easier to clean and maintain. However, they take longer to dry, and you may need to use paint thinner to clean up spills. Oil-based paints also have different finishes and are less toxic and environmentally friendly.
Stain is thinner than paint and will soak into the wood. It also requires less frequent maintenance than paint and may not need a primer. Stain also tends to have a uniform color and may not require a primer. It is better for rough and highly textured wood, but it requires proper weathering. Lastly, staining requires fewer coats than painting. Choosing the right paint for fence painting depends on the style of fence you want to achieve.
Protecting plants
If you are planning on painting your fence, protecting plants is crucial. First, remove all plants and foliage from temporary ties and plastic coverings. Paint can harm delicate plants. Also, avoid painting over natural stone. Natural stone absorbs paint. You can cover plants and foliage with plastic sheets or place them under the fence. Then, carefully paint the fence. When the fence is dry, remove plastic sheets and temporary ties and replant.
When applying new paint to an old fence, you may need to prime it first. A primer coat helps the paint adhere to the fence and will increase its durability. Apply the paint using vertical strokes and horizontal ones. Follow the wood grain while painting the fence. Avoid using too much pressure on the surface of the fence, but use a thick paint to penetrate the timber. After you have prepared the wood for painting, you can proceed with the painting process.
Estimating the cost
While the costs of fence painting may vary, there are some basic factors to consider when estimating the cost of the project. The size of the fence will determine the amount of supplies, labor, and any necessary repairs. Measure the fence’s height, width, and depth to get an accurate estimate of the paint needed. A typical gallon of paint covers approximately 400 square feet. If the fence is a small yard, estimate the paint needed based on the dimensions of the yard.
Exterior paint is latex-based and contains a primer. It comes in flat, eggshell, and semi-gloss finishes. It is mildew-resistant. The basic labor required to paint a fence ranges from $1.89 to $3.52 per square foot. The cost of these supplies is dependent on the size of the job, the type of paint, the size, and other variables. Generally, a contractor will charge between $25 and $100 per square foot, but the exact amount you pay depends on the specific project.