Fence & Deck Stain EXPERT™ Professional Wood Care
Protecting a Wood Fence Requires More Than Just Stain
For a wood fence to last 15–35 years, protection must occur in four critical areas: below ground (RotGuard™), at the ground line (PostGuard™), at the post top with proper post caps (CapClaw™), and across the wood surface with a high-quality stain and sealer.
Fence Armor specializes in complete wood fence protection systems that address each of these failure points.
Surface protection is the final and most visible step. A high-quality wood stain and sealer protects cedar and pressure-treated lumber from UV exposure, moisture intrusion, weathering, and premature aging.
That is why Fence Armor carries EXPERT™ Semi-Solid Wood Fence & Deck Stain and Sealer, a professional-grade stain formulated for harsh Canadian and U.S. climates and ideal for fences, decks, and wood siding.
Choosing the Right Wood Fence & Deck Stain
Not all wood stains perform the same. The right choice depends on the condition of your wood, the look you want, and how much protection your fence or deck requires.
Understanding stain opacity is the first step:
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Transparent stains enhance the natural grain of new cedar or redwood but offer lighter UV protection.
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Semi-transparent stains add color while allowing texture to show through. These are ideal for most fences and lightly weathered wood.
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Semi-solid stains provide more pigment and UV protection while still allowing some wood character to show through, making them ideal for most fences.
For most cedar and pressure-treated fences, a semi-solid stain and sealer provides the best balance of appearance, UV resistance, and long-term durability.
Proper Preparation Before Staining
Proper preparation has more impact on stain performance than the stain itself.
Before applying stain:
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Wood must be clean and fully dry
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Old, failing stain or paint should be removed
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Allow 24–48 hours of dry weather after washing or rain; you want the wood to have a moisture reading of about 12% or less.
This allows the stain to penetrate deeply into the wood fibers and provide lasting protection.
Why EXPERT™ Stain & Sealer Works So Well on Fences
EXPERT is formulated specifically for exterior wood exposed to harsh weather, UV rays, and moisture.
It offers:
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Deep penetration into cedar and pressure-treated lumber
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Strong UV and moisture resistance
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Fade-resistant color
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Reduced maintenance and re-staining frequency
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Low-VOC, environmentally responsible formula
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Excellent performance on both fences and decks
Use the Right Tools for Better Results
Even the best stain performs poorly with the wrong application method.
Fence Armor offers professional staining tools and equipment designed to help contractors and homeowners apply stain evenly with brushes, rollers, or sprayers — reducing drips, waste, and uneven coverage.
When paired with Fence Armor’s post protection products, you create a complete wood fence protection system from the ground up.
Part of the Complete Fence Armor Wood Care System
Staining protects the wood surface.
Fence Armor protects every other failure point of the fence.
For maximum lifespan, combine EXPERT™ stain with:
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RotGuard™ for below-ground protection
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PostGuard™ for ground-line protection
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CapClaw™ Post Caps for top-of-post protection
These are the most common questions homeowners and contractors ask when staining a wood fence or deck.
FAQs - About Staining a Wood Fence
Is Staining a Fence Worth It?
Yes. Staining is one of the most important steps in protecting a wood fence from UV damage, moisture intrusion, and premature aging.
Unstained cedar and pressure-treated wood will grey, crack, and dry out over time. A quality stain and sealer protects the wood fibers, slows weathering, and dramatically extends the lifespan and appearance of your fence.
Staining is not just cosmetic; it is a critical part of proper wood fence protection.
How Long Will Fence Stain Last?
On a properly prepared surface, a high-quality fence stain typically lasts 3 to 5 years on vertical fences and 2 to 4 years on decks or horizontal surfaces exposed to more wear.
Longevity depends on sun exposure, moisture, wood type, and surface preparation before staining.
Unlike paint, stain penetrates the wood and wears naturally without peeling, making maintenance easier over time.
How Can I Calculate the Amount of Stain I Need for My Fence?
As a general guideline, one gallon covers approximately 150–200 square feet, depending on wood texture, stain opacity, and whether you spray or brush.
To estimate:
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Measure the height and length of your fence
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Multiply to get the total square footage
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Divide by the coverage rate of your stain
Rough or weathered wood will require slightly more product due to deeper absorption.
How Do I Prep a Previously Stained Fence Before Applying a New Coat?
Preparation determines how well the new stain performs.
Before re-staining:
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Remove loose or failing stain. If a previous water-based coating was applied, it must be fully removed by stripping or sanding before re-staining.
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Clean the wood using a wood cleaner and brightener
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Remove dirt, mildew, and surface contaminants
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Allow the fence to dry completely before staining
Proper prep allows the stain to penetrate the wood instead of sitting on the surface.
How Long Should I Wait After Rain to Stain My Fence?
Wait 24 to 48 hours of dry weather after rain or washing before staining.
The wood should measure approximately 12% moisture content or less.
Wood must be completely dry so the stain can absorb into the fibers. Staining damp wood traps moisture and reduces adhesion and lifespan.
A simple test: sprinkle water on the wood. If it absorbs quickly, the wood is ready.
Can I Use EXPERT™ Stain & Seal on Both a Deck and a Fence?
Yes. EXPERT™ is formulated for all exterior vertical and horizontal wood surfaces, including fences, decks, pergolas, and wood siding.
For decks, lighter colors are recommended, as very dark semi-solid stains contain more pigment and can take longer to cure on horizontal surfaces.
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