The paint is not only used to improve the aesthetics of the external structures, but also to protect them from the elements. Fences, in particular, need a protective coat of paint every 2 or 3 years. They are often found, in fact, far from other structures and trees that could otherwise protect them from the elements. The paint protects iron and metal constructions from rust and corrosive agents, and fortifies the wood making it more resistant to wind, rain, snow and extreme temperatures. Painting a fence is a time-consuming task, but it is important to do it regularly, at the right intervals, to strengthen the fence, increase its duration and thus postpone the time when it will be replaced with a new one. Follow the steps outlined here to paint a fence.
Steps
Step 1. Prepare the area around the fence
Preparation is a critical step in the process. It is important to protect the vegetation around the fence when preparing the surface for paint. Doing so takes time, but it makes all the work easier.
- Cut the grass by making an edge along the fence line. Prick branches from adjacent bushes and shrubs, then use a blower to clear the ground of grass, dirt, and clipped twigs.
- Cover the adjacent ground with cloth or plastic sheets, and secure them so that they remain stationary throughout the work to collect preparation residues and paint splatters.
- If the fence has previously been treated, scrape off any dried paint that is peeling off.
- Use a pressure washer or sandpaper to clean the fence so that the surface of untreated wood appears. If the fence has previously been painted, it is best to use sandpaper to better adhere the new paint to the wood. If necessary, use a brush and a 50% solution of bleach and water to clean the wood from mold. Let the surface dry well.
- If you need to paint an iron or metal fence, use a steel brush to remove the rust and then use medium-grit sandpaper.
- After sanding the surface with sandpaper, wipe off the residue with a clean rag.
- Tape off any parts of the fence that you don't want to paint, such as any decorative elements, gate latches, handles, etc.
Step 2. Choose the right paint for the job
Be sure to use an exterior paint, the type properly treated to withstand the elements. There are several types.
- Acrylic paint: This is durable and provides the fence with an effective protective layer, but you may need to start by applying a coat of primer to the untreated surface before applying the paint.
- Transparent acrylic impregnating agents: this type of varnish allows you to show the beauty of the natural grain of the wood and, usually, does not require a coat of primer. Multiple layers can be stacked easily and requires minimal preparation.
- Oil paint: oil paints may require several coats and do not protect as well as acrylic paints, but they allow for an excellent aesthetic result.
- Enamels: enamel is the ideal paint for painting iron railings and gates. It is usually necessary to treat the surface first with a layer of rust inhibitor.
- Epoxy paint for car bodywork: The advantage of this type of paint is that it does not require other products, and it is extremely durable and resistant. You will need to mix it with a hardening agent to use it, which forces you to apply it within 6 hours.
Step 3. Choose the right day to paint the fence
Some climatic conditions are preferable to do the job. Choose a day that is not expected to rain, but is ideally cloudy and without strong winds. Wind can carry debris with it that can stick to the paint, and direct sunlight causes the paint to dry too quickly, compromising its protective properties.
Step 4. Choose the technique to use for painting
- Long fence: If it is a very long fence, the most convenient solution to get the job done quickly is to use an industrial sprayer. Spray the paint along the long side and grain of the wood. Do not spray into the wind and wear a mask. Make sure you protect the plants well from paint splashes. Keep a brush handy, however, in case you need it for touch-ups.
- Short Fence: If it's a smaller job, you can probably complete it using a painter's roller and a paintbrush for hard-to-reach spots and details.
- Patterned Iron Gate: Because patterns are often intricate, make sure you cover the entire surface well. A single coat of enamel or epoxy body paint is usually sufficient.
Advice
- Insert a plywood board to separate the fence from adjacent shrubs and bushes to protect them from toxins in the paint. When the surface has dried, remove the plywood board and you will see that the bushes will naturally resume the shape they had before covering them.
- If you decide to use a transparent primer instead of a varnish, be sure to choose a resistant product dedicated to outdoor use, such as an acrylic primer. If you want to apply it on an unfinished surface, or on which the impregnating agent previously passed has practically vanished, it is best to clean it thoroughly first with a pressure washer or with sandpaper. If, on the other hand, the surface has already been treated a few years before, you can overlay the new impregnating agent on the previous layer.
- Ask the shopkeeper for the amount of paint you will need in your case.
