How to correctly paint a fence ‘fast’ this spring to freshen it up

According to experts at Checkatrade, one of the most important parts of painting a fence is to use quality products so that it lasts for years, and looks great throughout its lifetime. Before starting to paint a shed, choose the colour and type of paint needed for your fence and protect the area with old towels, sheets or tarp. If you want to paint a fence "fast" it is best to use a roller to allow the paint to cover a large area in one go.

The experts said: "Put on some eye protection and old clothes. Then lay your plastic tarp on the ground to protect any landscaping or grass.

"To prep the fence, sand it down if it's wood or use an orbital sander or sanding block if it's metal.

"Once your fence is dry, use your roller to paint the surface of the fence. Use slow and steady movements so the area is thoroughly coated.

"Although using a roller is a quick way to go over your fence, there will inevitably be gaps you need to go over with a soft brush - especially for interlocking shapes or intricate designs."

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Once the fence is coated, leave it to dry before going over it with a weatherproof sealant or topcoat.

The pros added: "Painting a wooden fence is easier than other materials, especially if you just want to change its colour or go over old or chipped paint.

"To start, clear the surrounding area and remove any loose screws and nails. Prepare the area surrounding the fence by mowing the grass, clearing any weeds, and laying a large tarp over the ground."

Britons should use a small brush or roller and apply a pre-treatment or primer to wooden fences to help seal the surface of the wood and extend its lifespan.

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Make sure to repair any minor issues such as loose nails or screws, before sanding it down to remove any chipped paint.

Next, use a power washer or a spray and brush combo to clean the fence. This will help to make sure the wood is free from dirt and grime before it is painted.

The experts continued: "Leave it to dry out completely before moving on to the next step. Make sure your fence primer and chosen paints are safe for outdoor use and on wood.

"For example, oil-based paints are usually the most durable type of fence paint on the market. Apply the primer using a roller or paintbrush first and leave it to dry completely.

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"Then apply the paint using the same method to complete your first coat. Depending on how well you did the job the first time, you might need to go over it a second time."

Using a sprayer to paint your fence is worth learning if you want to know how to paint a metal fence, although it can be used to paint all types of fences.

To begin with, set up the sprayer by following the instruction manual provided. Most models require you to fill the spray bucket with the paint you choose, and then the pump is dipped into the bucket and screwed on.

The experts said: "Pick the right nozzle for the part of the fence you’re spraying. More intricate areas, narrower spaces, or decorative gaps will require a more precision-based fitting.

"Use an oil-based one suitable for wood and spray your fence on a day that isn't woo windy.

"Paint on a layer of primer with a paintbrush and allow it to dry before spraying on your chosen paint. At a distance of about six inches, start to spray on your paint in a steady back and forth motion."

A good rule of thumb is to go over the initial work at a perpendicular line of about 90 degrees to eliminate any streaks. When the paint is dry, make sure to check it to see if it needs another coat.

The experts recommended checking the instructions to see how long the paint takes to dry, although most paints will need overnight.