How to Paint a Fence

Painting fences, decking and exterior wood is an easy and budget-friendly way to smarten up a garden. Discover our top fence painting tips and find answers to FAQs, including when to paint your fence, how long it takes, and the best products to use. Whether you're painting a fence with sprayer guns or using a paintbrush, our step-by-step guide helps you achieve professional results.

When is the best time to paint a fence?

The warmer months are the best time to paint your fence when dry weather can help the paint dry. However, we recommend waiting until the hottest part of the day has passed — if it's too hot, the paint may dry too quickly before soaking into the wood, impacting the finish and longevity of your paint job.

How long does it take to paint a fence?

The size of the fence impacts how long it takes to paint. At Dulux Decorator Centre, we stock 5L exterior paints that cover up to 24m² in one coat, helping you get the job done quickly. In normal weather conditions, you need to allow 2-4 hours of drying time between coats. Once dry, recoat within 2-3 days to achieve the desired colour and finish.

How do I know if a fence needs a primer?

If the fence is new or in good condition, you shouldn’t need a paint primer. Most of our fence paints at Dulux Decorator Centre are designed to soak into the wood, and a primer can prevent that. However, if the fence is in a damp, wet or boggy area, priming can add extra protection.

Primer is great for restoring old or damaged fences. It seals the wood for maximum protection, adding years to a fence’s lifespan and protecting against weather damage. Before priming and painting fence panels, always sand the surface thoroughly to ensure a smooth finish.

Explore our complete range of preparation products to get the best results on your paintwork.

The best primer for fences

Always choose specialist exterior wood primers to protect and nourish fences. At Dulux Decorator Centre, we stock various exterior woodcare for fences, including primers, oils and varnishes.

What you’ll need to paint a fence

From PPE to tools, wood treatments, paint and cleaning products, here’s what you’ll need to paint a fence:

• Dust sheets. Protect lawns or patios beneath the fence.

• PPE. Masks, gloves and overalls should be worn when preparing and painting fences.

• Wood preserver. Apply to untreated or new wood.

• Primer (optional). For old or damaged fences that need extra protection.

• Sandpaper or electric sander. Smooth over rough areas, old paint or pieces of wood that may splinter.

• Paintbrush. A wide brush (at least 4 inches) is best for large surface areas.

• Paint sprayer (optional). Cover large areas quickly and ensure an even coating with a paint sprayer.

• Fence paint. Choose from several colours and finishes at Dulux Decorator Centre.

• White spirit. Oil-based paints are harder to clean off brushes, but white spirit makes cleaning up faster.

The best fence paint

The best fence paint depends on the results you want. We offer fence paint in various colours, from brown shades that match the natural wood to bright hues that make a statement.

Explore the complete range of exterior wood paint at Dulux Decorator Centre to find the best paint for fences.

A step-by-step guide to fence painting

Once you have everything you need, follow this step-by-step guide to get professional results on your paint job.

Step 1: Preparation

• Take down any garden decorations or objects that may be in the way.

• Lay down dust sheets to protect the grass or patio surrounding the fence.

• Remove any nails or screws sticking out of the fence.

• Sand down any rough patches or areas where wood has splintered/cracked to give a smoother finish to your paintwork.

Step 2: Priming

This step is only necessary for bare or untreated wood or if you're making a drastic colour change.

• Choose a product that suits your fence paint colour. For natural wood colours, we recommend using Cuprinol Exterior Wood Preserver or Dulux Trade Quick Dry Wood Primer Undercoat before painting with bright colours.

• Apply your chosen primer liberally to the fence, including gaps between fence posts and panels, for maximum protection.

Step 3: Application

• Stir your paint thoroughly, then test a small area first to determine the colour and adhesion.

• Paint the fence from the top down, following the grain of the wood (whether vertical or horizontal).

• Apply the first coat of paint generously without letting it drip or pool, letting it penetrate the wood deeper for long-lasting results.

Step 4: Recoat

• Let the paint dry for 2-4 hours under normal weather conditions before applying a second coat.

• Recoat within 2-3 days of the previous coat.

Step 5: Clean up

• Use white spirit to clean your brushes after painting and to wipe off any stray paint marks on the fence or surrounding area.

How to maintain a painted fence

Most fence paint is made with UV protection and weatherproofing properties to prevent colour fading, peeling or cracking, so you shouldn’t need to repaint for years. However, you can keep fences clean and algae-free by washing them with soapy water. Tougher dirt can be removed using a hard-bristled brush or a pressure washer.