When Should a Fence Be Painted?

Spring Painting

• Spring often reveals deterioration of the existing paint on a fence. It's always best to paint before the wood can deteriorate under flaked or cracked finishes. Spring is also a good time to paint because plants growing along the fence may still be dormant or smaller than they will be later in the summer. This makes it easier to reach the fence and poses less potential of damaging ornamental plants.

Keep It Dry

• Paint adheres best to wood that is dry. Apply paint only to wood that has dried for at least two days after a rain. This period may be longer if the fence is shaded, or it may be shorter for wood in direct sunlight.

Avoid Bad Weather

• Some paints can take as long as two days to fully dry. Monitor the forecast and avoid days when rain or stormy weather is anticipated in the next 48 hours.

Paint When It's Warm

• Paints adhere best in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature varies depending on the manufacturer and type of paint. However, 50 degrees Fahrenheit is a common minimum. Some paints also have a maximum temperature for application. Consult the manufacturer's instructions to determine the ideal temperature range.