How to Paint a Picket Fence

The traditional look of a picket fence has many benefits. A picket fence determines a yard's perimeter, keeps pets enclosed and adds curbside appeal. When constructing a new fence, or repainting an old fence there are several tips to keep in mind.

Things You'll Need

• Fence posts and pickets
• Primer
• Latex paint
• Paint sprayer or rollers
• Brushes
• Plastic
• Buckets
• Masks

Instructions

How to Paint a Picket Fence

1. Scrape off any peeling paint and debris if repainting an old fence. Power washing the fence will remove additional dirt and give a smooth, clean surface for paint to adhere to. Cover plants and bushes with plastic or buckets.

2. Coat the entire fence with water repellent preservative. Make sure to include sides, ends and underneath areas of the fence railings and posts. Allow to several days to dry.

3. Prime the fence. The paint can be sprayed or rolled on. Use a brush to get to hard to reach crevices. Again, coat all sections of the fence. Allow to dry. Approximately 400 square feet can be covered with one gallon of paint.

4. Apply two coats of latex house paint. Wait four hours minimum between coats. Again, the paint can be sprayed or rolled on. The paint should be exterior grade.

5. Consider painting the pickets of a new fenced before installation. The pickets can be spray painted, and allow easier access to all sides.

6. Repaint fencing as necessary. Continually update of the fence to ensure wood posts are sealed and protected from weather.

Tips & Warnings

• Vinyl fencing is an alternative option to wood when building a fence.

• Always wear a mask when spraying paint.

References

• Protecting Wood Fences for Yards and Gardens
• Building and Installing a Wood Picket Fence