How Much Does It Cost To Stain A Fence?

Fence staining cost factors

The cost to stain a fence depends on the size or how many linear feet you need to cover. If you’re applying more than one coat of stain, then your material costs will be higher. Choosing to hire a professional to stain your fence instead of going the DIY route will also increase the total cost.

Height and length

Perhaps the biggest factor impacting the cost to stain a fence is the total height and length. Larger, longer, and taller fences will require more labor and more stain and other materials to complete the job. A larger fence takes more time to stain, so hiring a professional will cost you more than if you were to stain it yourself. To ensure that you’re getting the most accurate estimated cost, take careful measurements of the height and length of your fence before you shop around. You can choose to stain one section at a time if you’re staining your fence on a budget.

Staining method

How you choose to apply the stain to your fence can also impact the total cost. Using a paint sprayer gets the job done faster, which means you’ll likely pay less for labor than you would if you used paintbrushes or rollers. You can also choose to rent an airless sprayer if you want to stain your fence yourself. Brushes and rollers cost less to purchase, but they do take more time to use than a sprayer.

Labor cost

The labor cost to stain a fence depends on a few factors. First, it may depend on how the contractor charges you for their work. The company may charge you per linear foot or per square foot of surface area, so make sure that you get multiple bids and estimates for your project to do a side-by-side comparison. How tight the labor market is (how high the demand is), the season, and the experience level of the professional you hire also impact the total labor costs.

Preparing your fence for staining

Before you stain your fence, prepare the wood by stripping any old stain or paint off and sanding the surface first. Use a stiff-bristle brush to help you loosen old varnish, then gently wipe any excess debris away with a towel or cloth. If you’re staining a brand-new fence, make sure the stain will penetrate the wood by spraying a small section with a garden hose.

If you notice water beads forming, lightly sand the area and see if water penetrates it. If it does, your new fence should be able to easily absorb the new stain. Clean your fence with water using a garden hose on the highest pressure setting to remove any leftover dirt and debris. Allow the fence to dry completely before applying the stain.

Should I paint or stain my fence?

Staining is a better choice if your goal is to protect your fence from the elements. While paint can protect a wooden fence, it’s also prone to cracking and peeling over time, leaving your fence vulnerable to water damage. You’ll need to reapply a fresh coat of stain every three to five years, and you’ll need to repaint your fence every five to six years or more often if it starts to show signs of wear. Stain tends to hold up better in terms of aesthetics when it comes to standard wear and tear. Most stain costs less per gallon than paint, but your total costs will vary depending on the factors mentioned above.