Sun and sprinklers are what age a wood fence in San Bernardino. The boards gray and crack on top and stay wet at the bottom. A wash and a coat of stain or paint slows both down and makes an older fence look cared for again.
Wood fences have a hard life in San Bernardino. Summer sun bakes the boards for months, the air is dry, and sprinklers wet the bottom of the fence every morning. Bare cedar and redwood turn gray, and pine boards crack and cup. A stain or paint coat slows that down. We look at the fence first. Sound boards with good posts are worth coating. Loose or rotted boards should be replaced before any finish goes on.
The work starts with cleaning. We wash off dust, gray fibers and sprinkler stains and let the wood dry. In our dry air that is usually quick. Then we apply stain or paint by brush, roller or sprayer, depending on the fence and how close the neighbors and cars are. Spraying is not for windy days, because overspray travels. Stain soaks in and wears away slowly. Paint sits on top and can peel, so it needs more upkeep.
Many fences here are shared with a neighbor, and many yards have block walls with wood gates. We can coat one side or both, and paint or stain gates to match. If you live in an HOA, check the approved fence colors before choosing. You get a free estimate and a written quote that lists the washing, any repairs, the product and the number of coats. Call or text (909) 487-2695 to set up a visit.
Fence painting & staining in San Bernardino: common questions
Is stain or paint better for a fence in San Bernardino?
Stain is the lower upkeep choice for most wood fences here. It soaks into the wood and fades instead of peeling. Paint gives a solid color but can peel in strong sun and needs scraping before each new coat.
How soon can a new fence be stained?
When the wood is dry enough to take stain. Sprinkle water on a board. If it soaks in, the fence is ready. If it beads up, wait. Pressure-treated posts and boards take longer than cedar or redwood.
Can you stain a fence that has turned gray?
Yes, if the boards are still solid. We wash off the gray surface fibers and dirt, let the fence dry and then stain. Boards that are soft, split through or loose should be replaced first.
How it works
- Free estimate: Call, text or book online. We walk the job and measure.
- Written quote: Prep, paint and price in writing.
- Prep & protect: We cover floors and furniture, repair and prime surfaces.
- Paint & walk-through: Two coats, clean lines, full clean-up and a final walk-through.