July, 2022
Thinking your garden needs some reviving whilst the sun is out in full force?
Well, you can easily bring a new lease of life by simply giving your garden the typical after winter tidy up; weeding, jet washing the patio areas, cutting the grass, and cutting back on overgrown trees or bushes. This alone will make you want to sit back and relax in your outdoor space.
However, if this isn’t satisfying enough refreshing your fences can give a breath of fresh air to your garden. Many fences can become tired whilst facing the great British weather. But your be amazed at what a lick of paint could do to your fences and garden. Whether your thinking of keeping it neutral or going all out there with some vibrant colours we have provided some easy tips to support you in transforming your fences!
Before doing anything, however, make sure you get permission from the owners of the fence, if your neighbour owns the fence they must agree to any changes, even if it is on the side facing into your garden.
Repair, wash, and sand
Before painting your garden fence, inspect it for any small cracks or loose panels. Remove any decorations or hanging baskets and give the fence a wipe down.
Use a power hose it to remove any dirt or debris from the fence surface. Then, sand it down to smooth out any wood splints. If there are still spots of mould or debris, use a scrubbing brush.
Top tip: Wear a dust mask and goggles for this step.
To achieve a better result and increase your fences lifespan, apply a layer of wood primer to your garden fence before you paint it. Follow the wood primer’s instructions and ensure it’s completely dry before moving onto the next step.
Priming
To achieve a better result and increase its lifespan, apply a layer of wood primer to your garden fence before you paint it. Follow the wood primer’s instructions and ensure it’s completely dry before moving onto the next step. You can find a good reliable wood primer in your local hardware store or why not take a trip to B and Q, Sutton.
Top tip: Before you start painting, apply a small amount of paint to an area of your fence that isn’t too obvious. Wait for it to dry and check you’re happy with the colour.
Painting
Choose a fence paint that has a tough and durable formula, specifically designed for exterior use. There is no ‘one tool fits all’ when it comes to painting a fence. You can use an exterior paint brush, roller or sprayer – or a combination of all three. It’s good to note that if your pushed for time a sprayer will be your best friend, but not on a windy day!
If you’re using a large brush, ensure to paint following the direction of the timber grain to give it a smoother, more professional looking finish. Start from the top and work your way down so that you can catch any drips.
Most good quality fence paints only require one coat. However, if you feel you need a second, wait until the first is completely dry. Once finished, remove all plastic coverings from your plants and vegetation, and any temporary plant ties or canes used.
Clean your brushes in warm, soapy water to preserve them for future use. You may need to use white spirit, as exterior wood paint is usually oil-based.
Carefully label and securely seal your fence paint and primer before storing them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and off the floor to avoid rusting.
Now you’ve done all the hard work why not pop down your local garden centre and pick up a few pots and summer plants to really give your garden a new lease of life. But if that is just a stretch too far grab a iced coffee, book and chill out!!
