Here at Gifford Fence Company LLC, we install hundreds of wood fences annually. While our wood fences can last 10-15 years with minimal care—simply adjust your irrigation, avoid mulch along the fence line, and address any standing water—achieving the full 20-year lifespan requires sealing or staining.
The Importance of Sealing or Staining
We recommend applying either a clear sealer or a colored stain within 6 months of your new fence installation. This crucial step protects the wood by preventing excessive moisture absorption, similar to how wax protects your car’s paint. Without a sealant or stain, water will soak into the wood. However, a protective coating forces water to bead and run off, preserving the wood’s integrity. Both clear sealers and oil-based stains offer this benefit.
Clear Sealer vs. Oil-Based Stain: Understanding the Differences
Clear Sealers: These products penetrate the surface layers of the wood, forming a protective film akin to wax. They allow the natural aging process of the wood, meaning it will eventually turn gray.
Oil-Based Stains: Oil-based stains soak into the wood much deeper, providing a more profound level of water repellency. This deeper penetration can even help prevent water absorption from ground contact. Additionally, stains offer a range of attractive colors that can transform the appearance of your fence and prevent the wood from graying.
The Necessity of Regular Maintenance
Regardless of whether you choose a clear sealer or an oil-based stain, periodic reapplication is essential.
- Clear Sealer: Typically requires reapplication every 3-5 years.
- Oil-Based Stain: May need reapplication every 2-4 years, depending on the chosen color. Darker colors tend to require more frequent touch-ups to maintain their appearance and protective qualities.
The Impact of Wood Type on Maintenance
The type of wood used for your fence also influences your maintenance schedule.
- Pressure-Treated Pine: With its tighter grain, pressure-treated pine is less absorbent and can typically go longer between sealant or stain applications.
- Cedar: Cedar has a looser grain and is more water-absorbent, potentially requiring more frequent maintenance.
If you’re installing a new wood fence for your long-term home, be sure to factor in regular sealer or stain application as part of your maintenance plan to maximize its lifespan and keep it looking its best.
