Does Sealing and Staining Protect a Fence?

We have worked on a lot of fences over the years and thought sharing some advantages and disadvantages of sealing and staining would be helpful.

Fence Sealing, Staining, and Painting

A fence can serve many purposes such as security, privacy, or mostly aesthetics. Depending on the wood, fence posts and related may not hold up over time without a sealant or preservative – including wood preservative and water repellent sealer or stain.  Sealing and protecting wood fencing has many benefits. It can add additional cost during replacements, installations, and repairs, but the long-term cost savings is well worth the investment. Staining a fence includes using clear coats or using stains and paints to add color on exterior fencing.  If you love the look of natural wood – then we suggest using a clear coat – however, if you prefer a more uniform color – than we can find a stain or paint to make your vision come to life.

The process of staining, sealing, painting, or protecting wood fencing takes time and is completed in steps. We want the wood to be sealed and stained to make sure it is fully protected from the elements and nature. First, the fence must be constructed. Next, the fencing is prepared for the sealing or staining product. Then, the seal and stain, paint, and/or preservative is applied to the fencing and related components. Taking these extra steps will make sure your fence lasts for many years!

Sealing protects your fence’s structural integrity, enhances its visual appeal, and ultimately saves you money in the long run:

Sealing vs Staining Wood Fences

Sealing and staining are two distinct approaches to treating wood fences - each serves a primary purpose. Some products offer both seal and stain – but most don’t. Stain (or paint) is designed to introduce color to the wood to enhance its inherent grain patterns or completely alter its aesthetic. This coloration is achieved through the inclusion of pigment within the stain formulation. While certain stains may offer a degree of water resistance, their fundamental role is aesthetic rather than protective against the elements. Stains are formulated to penetrate the wood fibers, allowing the natural beauty of the wood to remain visible. They are available in a diverse range of formulations, including oil-based and water-based options, as well as varying levels of opacity such as semi-transparent and solid stains. In addition, the pigment present in some stains, particularly those with darker tones, can provide a measure of protection against damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays.

In contrast, the primary function of a sealer is to act as a defensive shield for the wood fence against the detrimental effects of moisture, UV radiation, and other environmental stressors. Sealers are generally clear or possess a subtle tint, as they lack the significant pigment found in stains that would alter the wood's color. They work by establishing a protective barrier on the wood's surface, effectively preventing moisture from seeping in and causing issues like rot, mold, and mildew. The mechanism of penetration varies among sealers; some are designed to soak in the wood, while others create a protective film on top. Like stains - sealers are available in different types, including oil-based, water-based, and those specifically formulated with UV-resistant properties. While some sealers offer UV protection as a key benefit, it is not a universal characteristic, making it crucial to select a product that specifically addresses this need.

Advantages of Sealing and Staining a Fence:

• Superior Protection Against Moisture Damage: Unsealed wood is highly susceptible to water absorption from rain, humidity, and even sprinkler systems. This moisture can lead to rot, decay, and fungal growth, which weakens the wood fibers and compromises the fence's stability. Sealing creates a barrier that prevents water from penetrating the wood, which significantly extends the fencing’s lifespan and prevents costly repairs or replacements.

• Effective Reduction of Harmful UV Damage: Prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can be incredibly damaging to wood. UV radiation breaks down the lignin in wood - the natural polymer that provides strength and rigidity. This degradation leads to fading, discoloration, and a brittle texture. Stain, especially those with added UV inhibitors, acts as sunscreen for your fence by shielding it from damaging rays and preserving its color and structural integrity.

• Significant Prevention of Warping, Twisting, and Cracking: Fluctuations in moisture content cause wood to expand and contract. Over time, this constant movement can lead to warping, twisting, and the development of unsightly cracks. Sealing helps regulate the moisture content within the wood which minimizes the dimensional changes and maintains the fence's straight and uniform appearance.

• Enhancement of Aesthetics and Curb Appeal: Sealing and staining offer an opportunity to personalize the look of your fence. Sealants can provide a clear and natural finish that highlights the wood's grain - while stains come in a wide array of colors and opacities to complement your home, hardscaping, and landscaping. A well-sealed and stained fence significantly enhances your property's curb appeal and overall aesthetic value.

• Increase in Overall Lifespan: By actively protecting against moisture, UV damage, and dimensional instability, sealing and staining dramatically increase the lifespan of your wooden fence. This proactive maintenance prevents premature deterioration which saves you the expense and hassle of replacing your fence sooner than necessary.

• Reduction of Glare and Improved Comfort: While perhaps less obvious, the finish provided by sealants and stains can subtly reduce the harsh glare of sunlight reflecting off the raw wood. This can contribute to a more comfortable and visually appealing outdoor space - especially during bright sunny days.

Disadvantages of Sealing and Staining a Fence:

• Increased Initial Installation Costs: The process of properly sealing and staining a fence adds to the initial expense of installation. This includes the cost of the sealant and stain products themselves, as well as the potential cost of labor if you choose to hire a fence professional, like Elite Home Solutions. While this upfront investment pays off in the long run through increased lifespan and reduced repairs, it can be a consideration for budget-conscious homeowners.

• Ongoing Maintenance Requirements: Sealing and staining are not one-time applications. Over time, the sealant and stain will degrade due to weathering and UV exposure. To maintain the protective benefits and desired aesthetic, periodic reapplication is necessary. The frequency of this maintenance will depend on factors like the climate, the quality of the products used, and the level of sun exposure. This ongoing maintenance requires time, effort, and additional expenses for labor and materials.

• Challenges in Achieving Application Uniformity: Achieving consistent and even application of sealant and stain can be challenging for DIYers. Uneven application can result in blotchy or streaky finishes which detracts from the fence's appearance. Factors such as the type of wood, the application method (brush, roller, sprayer), and the weather conditions during application can all influence the final result. Proper preparation and technique are crucial to making sure there is a uniform and professional-looking finish.

Elite Home Solutions is a top-rated fence contractor in Northwest and Northeast Arkansas. We are a licensed contractor and understand how to build things. If you have any questions on fence, staining, or related, please reach out to us! For more information on fences, check out our fence construction page.

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