There’s no doubt that choosing a
vinyl fence for your property constitutes a smart and sensible choice. Far more affordable and durable than traditional fencing options, such as wrought iron or wood, vinyl fencing is the ideal low maintenance option for many homeowners. Of course, while
intended to last, and often with an extensive warranty to reflect this, there may still be a time when you decide your vinyl fence could be refreshed or updated by a new coat of paint. The easy process of adding paint can have a huge impact in the overall appearance of your property and can add some serious curb-appeal. In this article we’ll be looking at what you’ll need to paint your vinyl fencing, as well as provide a handy how-to guide, with tips and tricks sprinkled in along the way.
You Will Need
As with any type of project, be it baking, building, or installing, you’ll need to make sure you have the correct supplies on hand to help ensure the success of your project. Having to pause halfway through a process to source a supply is not only inconvenient, but can also cause undesired results, or even damage, which could affect the future of your fence’s warranty if you have one. You’ll be relieved to know, however, that many of the supplies you’ll require to paint your fencing are readily available in most homes, and include items such as: a bucket, mild detergent, warm water, wash cloth, garden hose, drying towel, and cling wrap. The supplies you’ll typically need to source either online or at your local hardware store include: epoxy-based exterior paint, brushes, a paint roller or a paint sprayer, a primer suited to exterior surfaces, sealant, and safety equipment such as gloves, safety goggles, and a dust mask.
Research Your Materials
For the avid DIY fans among us, the required items for this project may seem relatively straightforward, and easy to source. However, with any large-scale project, particularly one which is visible from the street as fencing often is, selecting the wrong materials can really cause a whole manner of problems. No homeowner wants to watch their shiny new paint job fall into a state of disrepair after just a few months, or face complaints or scrutiny from their neighbors, or even their Homeowners’ Association. Making sure you have selected the correct materials for the job will help to ensure your work is long lasting and impressive for all the right reasons. If at any point you find yourself unsure or uncertain, then it’s really best to consult with a professional before making your purchase, and certainly before undertaking your project.
Preparing the Fence
As with any paint job, be it inside or outside, you want to make sure you start off with a clean canvas. Grit or grime can play havoc with the adhesion of a primer, as well as completely ruin the final painted surface. Therefore, while it might be a pain, taking the time to thoroughly clean your fence, first with warm soapy water, and then rinsed with a hose, is an essential step before you can get to work with paints and primers. You also want to ensure that your vinyl fencing is completely dry before you begin your priming layer, as this will prevent adhesion issues between the paint and the fence.
Priming is Essential
If you want your paint work to last more than a season, as well as achieve a professional finish, then you’ll need to prime your fence. Make sure to choose a primer designed for exteriors which preferably offers mold and mildew protection. Paint an even coat onto the fencing using your preferred method. Remember to take the correct safety precautions, gloves should be worn whether hand painting or spraying, and goggles and a dust mask also need to be worn with the latter option.
Painting
This is the step where your hard work really starts to come together! Paint your fence in the same way as you did with the primer, building up layers until you achieve smooth and even coverage. Make sure that all brushes or sprayers are completely clear of the primer from the previous step!
Sealant
Probably the most important step in regards to your paint’s longevity, using a good quality sealant will ensure your fence looks as good as when freshly painted for years to come. A high-quality sealant will protect your vinyl fencing from the elements, as well as keeping the paint fresh, unfaded, and uncracked for an extended period of time.
A Transformed Space
Overall, renovating your fence constitutes a simple task, suited to most DIY beginners, that can completely
transform an outdoor space. A fresh coat of white paint for example, can make a garden or yard feel brighter and more open, whereas a darker tone can make a space feel cozy and intimate. As with any project that effects the outward presentation of your property, if you live on land regulated by a Homeowner’s Association, always check that your shade of choice fits within their guidelines to guarantee your fence’s longevity!
