Easy guide to repainting a picket fence
A picket fence is a beautiful addition to any home exterior. But over time, the paint will start to chip and fade. When this happens, it’s time to give your fence a fresh coat of paint. Repainting a picket fence is easy to do yourself and only requires a few supplies. In this blog post, we will walk you through the process of repainting a picket fence step-by-step. With our guide, you’ll have your fence looking like new in no time!

Overview
Picket fences are a classic addition to any home, and they can add to the curb appeal of your property. But over time, picket fences can start to look a bit worn down and weathered. If you’re looking to give your picket fence a fresh new look, repainting it is a great option.
Repainting a picket fence is a pretty easy project that you can do yourself in just a weekend. In this easy guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about repainting a picket fence, from prep work to choosing the right paint. So if you’re ready to get started, read on!
Preparation
Before you begin painting your picket fence, it is important to ensure that the surface is properly prepared. This will help you achieve a professional-looking finish and extend the life of your paint job.
To prepare your picket fence for painting:
- Start by power washing the fence to remove any dirt, grime, or mildew. Let the fence dry completely before proceeding.
- Next, use a putty knife to fill any cracks or holes in the wood. Once the filler is dry, sand the entire surface of the fence to create a smooth base for paint.
- Finally, apply a primer coat to the fence before painting. This will help improve paint adhesion and prevent peeling or chipping down the road.
Painting
When it comes time to repaint your picket fence, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to sand down the fence to prep it for paint. You can use a power sander or do it by hand, but either way, make sure to get rid of any flaking paint or wood debris.
Once the fence is sanded, you’ll need to choose a primer and paint the colour. If you’re going for a solid colour, we recommend using a white primer so that the colour will be true to what you see on the can. For stain colours, we recommend matching the primer to the top coat. That way, if any of the stains bleed through, they won’t be as noticeable.
Now it’s time to start painting! Begin with the primer and work your way up to the top coat. If you’re using more than one can of paint, make sure to mix them before starting so that the colours don’t end up looking streaky. And finally, once the fence is dry, stand back and admire your handiwork!
Maintaining your painted fence
Assuming your picket fence is already painted, the first thing you’ll want to do is pressure wash or hand scrub the fence clean of any dirt, pollen, or other debris. Once it’s dry, inspect the fence for any cracks or holes that need to be filled in – use a wood filler or caulk for this.
Next, using a paintbrush or roller, apply a primer coat to the entire fence. Once that’s dry (after about 4 hours), begin painting your topcoat. For best results, use paint specifically formulated for exterior use on fences.
Be sure to paint the tops and bottoms of each picket as well as the rails – don’t forget to prime these areas first! Also, if your fence has any decorative features like latticework, be sure to paint those as well.
Once you’re finished painting, step back and admire your handiwork! A freshly painted picket fence can brighten up your yard – and with proper maintenance, it will stay looking great for years to come.
Strip it all back
When it comes to repainting your picket fence, there are a few key things you need to do to get the best results. First, strip off all of the old paint and any other debris that may be on the fence. This will help ensure that the new paint adheres properly and looks its best. Next, sand down the fence to create a smooth surface for painting. Once you’ve done this, you’re ready to start painting! Be sure to use high-quality exterior paint and apply several thin coats for optimal coverage and protection.
Prime the fence thoroughly
Pick a dry, sunny day to repaint your fence. Begin by power washing the fence to remove any dirt or grime build-up. Once the fence is dry, use a primer specifically designed for exterior surfaces. Apply the primer evenly with a brush or roller, making sure to cover all areas of the fence. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to painting.
Getting down to action
Once you have chosen your paint and supplies, it’s time to get down to action! Here’s a step-by-step guide to repainting your picket fence:
- Begin by power washing your fence to remove any dirt or debris.
- Next, use a hand sander to rough up the surface of the fence. This will help the new paint adhere better.
- Once you have sanded the fence, apply a primer coat. This will help the new paint colour pop!
- When the primer is dry, it’s time to start painting! Use a brush or roller to apply an even coat of paint over the entire fence.
- Allow the paint to dry completely before applying a second coat if desired.
Conclusion
A picket fence is a great investment for any home. Not only does it add curb appeal, but it’s also a great way to keep your property secure. When it comes time to repaint your picket fence, follow these easy steps and you’ll have a fresh, new fence in no time.