When Do I Apply Sealer To A New Wooden Fence?
I’ve just put up a redwood and pressure treated fence. It was recommended to me that I should apply some kind of sealer as soon as possible. My questions are, will it be better to give the wood a couple of weeks or so first or should I apply the sealer right away? Will it hurt anything if I apply it now? Will any kind of sealer like deck sealer work?
Thanks.
10 Responses
joem_1701
05 Oct 2010
cheyenne
05 Oct 2010
At this point, you have to wait until spring/summer.
Yes deck sealer will work.
Ash
05 Oct 2010
apply it now
it will not hurt it
ramzee
05 Oct 2010
apply anytime, now is fine……… deck sealer is good.
Be Blessed!
knel320tyler
05 Oct 2010
If the wood is dry, do it now. Just make sure it isn’t going to rain before it has a chance to cure. As far as sealers go, deck sealer would probably be fine. One thing I have noticed on exterior sealers is that you do get what you pay for. So it might be worth the few extra dollars to get a premium sealer.
s r
05 Oct 2010
most sealer products state for new pressure treated wood to wait 1 year before applying a sealer to it. then depending on product to do every 3 to 7 years (re-coat). but i have heard of people putting something on right a way. my personal opinion i think waiting 1 year then apply something good the wood looks a lot better. this is what i found out from my local hardware store. be sure to follow the directions from what ever product you decide if you want the maximum from your fence.
I am, I said
05 Oct 2010
Fencing materials come from the mill without being kiln dried.
They have a very high moisture content and are not going to be able to sufficiently absorb any type of finish. Allowing some time for this water to evaporate will result in better absorption, hence a longer lasting finish.
I would give it 3 months or so, depending on the weather.
Transparent or tinted oil stains absorb evenly and do not mask the natural grain of the wood. Latex stains are difficult to apply and often result in an uneven finish.
scubastieb@yahoo
05 Oct 2010
Do it now before you get water stains or the sun bleaches out the fence… The wood is ready to go it will absorb the stain… hence…..stain….the wood is not pressure treaded and will take it right away…use a spreyer and have someone follow with a roller or bursh… make sure it will not rain for a few days befor or after to get best results and reaply every 2-4 year depending on ur liking. but do it yesterday!!! get to it
ronibug
05 Oct 2010
Since it’s new pressure treated lumber, you don’t need to do anything for about 6 months, or as long as water continues to bead on it. When water starts to soak in and when the wood is dry, use the same product as you would with a new deck, e.g., Thompson’s Water Seal.
chilly
05 Oct 2010
The quicker the better, make sure it’s an outside sealer. The first coat should be diluted so that it is thinner and penetrates easier, then ad a normal topcoat, The more expensive you go, the less work you’ll have in the future
Based on what you’re saying, I’m going to assume you have a redwood fence and pressure treated posts. Best thing to do would be to wait about 6 months or so before applying anything. This will give the wood a chance to dry out (especially the pressure treated posts). Once the wood has had a chance to cure, it will more readily accept a sealer or stain. Before applying, clean the fence and posts with a power washer and allow to air dry for a few days. Make sure that there is no rain expected in your area for at least a week and apply when the temperature will be a constant 50-60 degrees or higher. You can then apply a clear sealer or a transparent deck stain. If you like the look of the redwood, then use a good quality clear oil based sealant. This will change the color of the wood slightly but still preserve the natural look of the wood and the wood grain. I do not recommend using Thompson’s Water Seal. It is a wax based sealant and and a bit of a pain to use. I’ve got personal experience with this one. Use something like C&W or Cuprinol.