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How to Stain a Wooden Gate or Fence

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Protect and prolong the life of your wooden gate or fence by treating the surface with a high quality, protective wood stain. Our step-by-step guide will help your stain your wooden gate or fence like a professional.

Step 1

Protect Ground

Protect Ground

Remove obstacles such as garden furniture or equipment from the area. Lay a tarpaulin or laminated dustsheet to protect the ground from stain splashes.

Step 2

Clean Wood

Clean Wood

Wash the gate or fence thoroughly with sugar soap to remove any wax or dirt from the surface, then allow it to dry completely.

Step 3

Sand

Sand

Sand the surface of the gate or fence until as smooth as possible.

Step 4

Wipe Clean

Wipe Clean

Wipe the clean of any dust with a dry, clean cloth.

Step 5

Paint Inside Panel

Paint Inside Panel

Depending on the product you are using, protective eyewear and gloves may be required. Start on the inside of the gate or fence and apply a coat of stain with a suitable brush.

Step 6

Paint Front

Paint Front

Apply a coat of stain on the frame and to the front.

Step 7

Second Coat

Second Coat

Apply a second coat if required, once the first coat is dry. Always leave gates in the open position while drying.