Wood Staining: Staining Siding and Fences

Wood Staining

1. The Basics of Exterior Staining Prep
2. Essential Tools and Materials for Staining Siding and Fences
3. Select the right surface prep product
4. Choose your stain color and finish
5. Siding and Fences

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The Basics of Exterior Staining Prep

Vertical surfaces, such as fences, have different exposures, different absorption rates - different needs altogether. So what works on your deck or outdoor furniture may not be right for the siding on your home. Cabot understands the unique needs of each project. That's why we offer products that are specifically designed for your siding and fence surfaces.

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Essential Tools and Materials for Staining Siding and Fences

Here's everything you'll need to get it right the first time.

• Drop cloth
• Garden pump sprayer
• Cabot Problem Solver Wood Cleaner
• Deck scrub brush or Power washer
• Sanding block
• sanding paper and Broom
• Garden hose
• Gloves
• Safety glases
• Empty gallon can / lid (1/4 full with water for rags)
• Brush (bristle brush)
• Cabot Decking Stain

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Select the right surface prep product

Evaluate surface condition. Are mildew stains present, or evidence of extractive bleeding? Cabot provides a full selection of surface prep products. You will have no trouble finding a product that addresses your surface's specific prep needs.
Cabot Composite Decking Stains are water-repellent stains give a mildew-resistant coating while also resisting cracking, peeling, and blistering.

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Choose your stain color and finish

Cabot offers a full range of stain options including naturals, decking and solids color stains. To make your decision between colors and opacities easier, we sell 4 oz sample sized cans in our Sample Store. To be sure you'll be pleased with the final result try it first.
Naturals
Tinted finishes add sheer, nearly transparent color allowing the most wood grain and texture to show through.View natural colors
Semi-Solids
Unique semi-solid/semi-opaque finish that mostly masks the wood grain but allows texture to show through.View semi-solid colors
Solids
Solid finish adds rich, opaque color that completely hides the wood grain while allowing some texture to show through.View solid colors

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Siding and Fences

Generally, the best method to apply Cabot oil-based products is a high quality, natural bristle brush, and either a high quality polyester or nylon brush for our acrylic products. However, professional sprayers may be used for the majority of our products. See Spray Gun Application for more information. Always follow product instructions to the letter and don't forget to re-stain the surface depending on anticipated weathering.