When to Plan Staining: Best Weather and Seasons

In the North Shore suburbs, the best time to stain a fence is late spring through early fall, when temperatures stay between 50–85°F with low humidity. Avoid staining during rainy weeks or direct midday sun. This seasonal timing helps ensure the stain penetrates evenly and lasts longer.

Special Note: New vs. Older Fence

• New fences: Wood should dry for about 4–8 weeks before staining, depending on weather and lumber type.

• Older fences: These often require cleaning, repairs, and sometimes sanding before staining. Our team offers fence repair and refinishing services across Lake Forest, Glenview, and Skokie to restore your fence before staining.

Types of Wood and How They Stain

Different wood types absorb stain differently:

• Cedar: Popular in Evanston and Highland Park homes, cedar looks best with semi-transparent stains.

• Pine: Affordable and common in suburban Chicago, it benefits from solid stains for better protection.

• Redwood or Composite fencing: Requires less frequent staining but still benefits from protective sealers.
  
  

How to Prepare a Fence for Staining

Preparation is key to a professional finish:

• Power wash or scrub off dirt, mildew, and debris.

• Replace or repair broken boards.

• Allow at least 24–48 hours of dry time.

• Cover landscaping and nearby hardscape to prevent staining spills.

Our fence repair and cleaning services in Northbrook, Deerfield, and surrounding areas make this process simple and stress-free.

Different Types of Stains

• Transparent stains: Highlight natural wood grain.

• Semi-transparent stains: Balance protection and beauty.

• Solid stains: Provide maximum color coverage and UV protection.

At First Class Fence, we help homeowners choose the right product for their specific fence and neighborhood conditions in the North Shore suburbs.

Step-by-Step Staining Tips

1. Start with a clean, dry fence.

2. Apply stain with a sprayer, brush, or roller.

3. Work in small sections to prevent lap marks.

4. Apply evenly, following the wood grain.

5. Let it dry thoroughly before hanging gates or decorations.
   
   

Signs It’s Time to Re-Stain

• Wood color looks faded or gray.

• Water no longer beads on the surface.

• Splitting or warping boards.

• Visible mildew or mold growth.

When you see these signs, it’s time to schedule fence maintenance or staining services with us in Lake Forest, Skokie, or Glenview.

Cost Considerations

The cost of staining depends on fence size, wood type, and stain quality. While DIY can save upfront, professional services often save money in the long run by preventing costly repairs.

Benefits of Staining

• Extends fence lifespan.

• Boosts curb appeal for homes across the North Shore suburbs.

• Protects wood from sun, snow, and rain.

• Adds value when paired with other services like gates and access control systems.
  
  

Region-Specific Advice for North Shore Suburbs

In Chicago’s North Shore, we deal with:

• Cold winters: Freeze-thaw cycles can damage unstained wood.

• Humid summers: Promote mold and mildew.

• Lake Michigan winds: Increase wear on fences in Evanston and Lake Forest.

That’s why timely staining — ideally every 2–3 years — is essential.

DIY vs. Professional Help

DIY staining is possible for small fences, but hiring professionals ensures:

• Even coverage

• High-quality, long-lasting products

• Repairs and prep included

• Time savings

At First Class Fence, we specialize in fence installation, repair, staining, and custom gates for homeowners throughout Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Glenview, Evanston, Skokie, and Lake Forest.

Expert Tips Recap

• Wait for dry, mild weather between spring and fall.

• Prep the fence properly before staining.

• Choose the right stain for your wood type.

• Re-stain every few years based on signs of wear.

• Consider hiring experts to save time and ensure long-lasting results.