How to Stain a Picket Fence

Left unprotected, a picket fence will turn gray.

Because a wooden picket fence is exposed to water and sunlight, it is important to protect it. A penetrating wood stain will not only protect your picket fence from moisture and ultraviolet (UV) rays, it will also reveal the wood's natural grain pattern. Cleaning the fence with wood cleaner, then using a paintbrush to apply stain, is the best method for staining a picket fence and helping protect it from the elements. The gaps between the pickets make a brush the preferable stain applicator.

Things You'll Need

• Wood cleaner
• Nylon scrub brush
• Wood stain
• Paintbrush

Instructions

Preparing the Picket Fence for Staining

1. Rinse the picket fence with water and apply the wood cleaner. Wood cleaner is generally sold in a concentrated formula, so follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the proper dilution.

2. Allow the cleaner to sit on the fence for 15 to 30 minutes, then scrub the fence down with a nylon scrub brush.

3. Rinse the wood thoroughly with water and allow the fence to dry for at least 24 hours before applying stain.

Applying Stain to the Fence

1. Use your paintbrush to apply stain to each fence picket and cross piece. Maintain a wet edge and work in the direction of the wood grain.

2. Feed the wood as much stain as it will absorb, but be careful not to over-apply. Wood stain is intended to fully penetrate into the surface of the wood.

3. After you have stained the fence, let it sit for 15 minutes, then go over the wood with a dry paintbrush to pick up any excess product sitting on the wood's surface.

Tips & Warnings

• If the wood darkens considerably during cleaning, use a wood brightener to restore its natural luster and color.

• The UV protection in stain comes from the pigment in the product. Choose a darker stain if your fence is in direct sunlight, or if longevity is a concern.

• Wood cleaner and wood brightener contain chemicals that may be harmful to skin and eyes. Wear protective clothing, including eye wear and rubber gloves, when working with these products.

References

• Duckback Products: Tips for Super Looking Wood
• Bob Vila: Picket Fence Installation