Wood fences in the Red River Valley face wind, strong sun and frost that heaves posts in the clay soil. Stain soaks in and fades evenly, so it suits most fences better than paint. We check the posts first, wash the fence, and stain or paint both faces.
A wood fence in the Red River Valley takes wind on one face and sun on the other, with nothing to shelter it. The heavy clay soil holds water and moves with frost, so posts lean and gates drop over time. Before we talk about color we walk the line and check that the posts are firm and the boards are sound. There is no sense putting a finish on a section that needs repair first, and we will say so plainly.
Most fences here do better with stain than with paint. Stain soaks into cedar and treated pine, lets moisture leave the wood and fades evenly, so the next coat can go on after a wash. Paint gives a solid color and suits some older homes, but it has to be scraped when it peels. We wash the fence, let it dry, protect plants, grass and the house, and apply the finish by brush, roller or sprayer depending on the style and the wind that day.
A fence has two faces and usually two households looking at it. Tell your neighbor before the work, because we need to reach their side to coat it, and a fence sealed on one face only weathers unevenly. If you live in an HOA, read the covenants for rules on fence color before you choose. Fence finishing is outdoor work, so it shares Fargo's short season, and calm, dry days are the ones we look for.
Fence painting & staining in Fargo: common questions
Do you stain both sides of the fence?
We can, and it is better for the wood. We need your neighbor's permission to work from their side, so please ask them first.
My fence has turned gray. Can it still be stained?
Usually, yes. Gray is weathered surface fiber. Washing removes it and brightens the wood. Boards that are soft or split should be replaced first.
Will spraying on a windy day get stain on my house or car?
We do not spray when the wind would carry it. On windy days we brush and roll, or we wait. Nearby surfaces are covered either way.
How it works
- Free estimate: Call, text or book online. We walk the job and measure.
- Written quote: Prep, paint and price in writing.
- Prep & protect: We cover floors and furniture, repair and prime surfaces.
- Paint & walk-through: Two coats, clean lines, full clean-up and a final walk-through.