JACKSONVILLE HOMEOWNER GUIDE
Prepping a Fence for Paint: Why Cleaning Comes First Here Too
The same principle that applies to staining applies to painting — paint over buildup doesn’t hold the same way.
Why Paint Needs a Clean Surface
Paint applied over existing algae, mildew, or dirt doesn’t bond evenly and tends to show through or peel prematurely in the affected areas, regardless of how many coats are applied.
Wood vs. Vinyl Fence Prep
Wood fences need the same lower-pressure approach used before staining to avoid damaging the surface ahead of painting. Vinyl fences being painted — less common, but it happens — can generally tolerate more pressure during prep.
Building the Right Timeline
Similar to staining, wood needs to fully dry after cleaning before paint will properly adhere, which is worth factoring into a painting project’s overall schedule.
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