Although a wooden gate is often considered an effective aesthetical addition to the exterior of a property, it is important to remember that they require much more maintenance than wrought iron alternatives. After all, timber is a very vulnerable material and it is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure that it stays in tip top condition all year round. Luckily, staining a wooden gate with a preservative or paint is the perfect solution! Read on as the team here at Cheshire Metalcraft go over everything a property owner needs to know…
What is the best time of year to stain a wooden gate?
It is recommended that homeowners wait around 60 days after installation before they start staining their wooden gate as it is likely that the manufacturer will have applied a sealant. This also allows the wood to settle into its new environment and open its pores which will then allow the stain to sink deeper. As a general rule, a wood stain should be applied on a cloudy, dry day in the spring season as hot temperatures can cause the stain to dry too quickly whilst wet wood can affect the finish.
Should a wooden gate be cleaned before staining?
The first thing that property owners should do is protect the floor by laying down a tarp. After all, wood stain can also stain a concrete floor permanently! After this, it is very important that the wood is prepared for the treatment by cleaning the surface with hot soapy water. The gate should be left to dry thoroughly before the surface is sanded down smoothly and the stain is applied. This process removes any dirt and impurities and allows the stain material to glide onto the surface of the gate as easily as possible.
How many coats of stain does a wooden gate need?
As a general rule, a wooden gate should be provided with up to two coats of stain in order to offer the best protection against the elements. With this said, it is vital that the wood is allowed to dry completely between each coat in an open position as this allows the liquid to seep into the pores of the wood effectively.
When it comes to the maintenance of a wooden gate, it is vital that property owners understand the importance of weather protection. After all, timber is not weather resistant which means that hot summer temperatures or heavy rainfall can have an adverse effect on the health of a gate, leading to early deterioration and a costly replacement. To find out more information about taking care of a wooden gate, get in contact with the best gates in Manchester and speak to a member of the Cheshire Metalcraft team today!