Painting your fence this autumn
Wooden fencing has long been one of the most popular choices for UK gardens, offering strength, privacy, and a timeless appearance. At Fountain Timber, it’s our best-selling fencing style – and for good reason!
Whether it's traditional featheredge, cedar slats, or classic picket fencing, the natural resilience and aesthetic of timber create a solid, weather-resistant barrier that looks just as at home in a rural setting as it does in a contemporary garden.
While pressure treatment gives timber a strong resistance to decay, regular painting will add another layer of protection, helping your fence withstand the effects of sun, rain, frost, and wind.
Looking to paint your fence this autumn? Try Bird Brand One Coat Fence Paint
Why do I need to paint my fence?
Extending the life of your fence
Over time, UV rays can cause timber to fade and weaken, while moisture can lead to warping, splitting, or rot. Paint forms a protective barrier that slows the process, locking out water and shielding the natural wood from the elements – especially important for exposed boundaries where the fence bears the full brunt of the weather.
Pressure-treated traditional featheredge fencing is a hugely popular product in our range, known for its natural strength and timeless aesthetics, but the overlapping boards will still require the vital layer of protection that painting will offer.
Preparing your fence for paint
Cleaning and repairs before you begin
Before you start painting, it’s essential to prepare the surface. Any dirt, algae, or old flaking finish will stop new paint from bonding properly. Begin by brushing away loose debris, then wash the boards thoroughly. A pressure washer can be used on sturdy fences, but for older or more delicate sections, a stiff brush and soapy water will do the trick.
If you notice green or black mould, scrub with a diluted bleach solution and allow the fence to dry completely.
This is also the time to make repairs. Replace any boards that have split or rotted beyond saving, check that nails or screws are secure, and ensure the rails and posts are in good condition. Good preparation will both improve the look of the finished job but also make your paint last longer.
Choosing the right paint for your fencing
Matching finish to function and style
At Fountain Timber, we stock a range of high-quality wood paints and treatments suitable for featheredge fencing.
Bird Brand One Coat Shed & Fence Paint is a wax-enriched treatment designed for rough-sawn garden timber. It offers excellent water repellency and strong coverage in a single coat. Safe to use around plants and pets once dry, it’s ideal for fences, sheds, trellis, and other garden structures. One 5L tin covers up to 7 panel sides, depending on the wood’s absorbency.
Other paints and treatments to consider for your fence
Explore the Fountain Timber range
Barrettine Wood Protective Treatment is a deep-penetrating oil-based treatment that nourishes and seals outdoor timber. Its water-repellent resins help reduce swelling, twisting, and decay, while UV-resistant pigments protect against fading.
Treatex Classic Colour Collection offers an opaque, high-performance finish made from sustainable raw materials, including natural oils and waxes. Tried and tested in extreme conditions, it’s perfect if you want vibrant, long-lasting colour that stands up to all weather.
When selecting your paint, consider how you want the fence to look. A natural wood tone will keep the classic featheredge appearance, while deeper or brighter colours can make the fence a standout feature in your garden design.
Applying the paint
Timing and technique
Choose a dry day with mild temperatures and, if possible, work when the fence is in shade. Direct sunlight can cause the paint to dry too quickly, reducing absorption and potentially leading to patchy coverage.
For featheredge boards with overlapping panels, take care to paint into the joints without overloading the brush – this prevents drips and ensures even coverage. For the main boards, you can use a brush, roller, or sprayer, but a brush is still best for edges and areas near plants or walls where precision matters. Always work in the direction of the grain, starting at the top and moving downwards to avoid streaks.
Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of coats and drying times between applications. Even if a single coat covers well, a second coat will usually offer better, longer-lasting protection.
Looking after your painted fence
Simple maintenance for lasting results
A painted wooden fence will keep its colour and protection for several years, but regular inspection is no bad idea. Look for signs of fading, flaking, or water absorption – if water no longer beads on the surface, it’s time for a fresh coat. With good preparation and quality paint, most fences will only need repainting every two to three years.
Keeping plants and soil away from the base of the fence will also help prolong its life. Where possible, fit a gravel board at the bottom of the panels to shield the boards from direct contact with the ground.
Build your perfect outdoor space with Fountain Timber
A freshly painted timber fence will enhance the look and feel of your garden while ensuring the timber stays sound for years to come.
Explore our full range of fencing and woodcare products, and, as ever, please get in touch with our team if you need help choosing the best finish for your garden.
Posted on June 18th 2025
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