Fences, gates, decks and pergolas need attention when their finish becomes worn or patchy. Painting, staining and oiling create different looks, and the right option depends on the timber, its condition and what is already on it. Tell us what you'd like recoated and whether you want to keep or change the existing finish.
Before choosing a coating, we look at the surface and how much preparation it needs. Old paint, grey timber and a previous oil finish may each need a different approach. A deck walking surface also needs a finish suitable for that use, rather than simply using the same paint as the fence.
Access is part of the job too. A fence may be painted on one side or both, while a deck can include boards, stairs, posts and handrails. We agree those details before quoting. If boards or supports need replacement, that repair work must be dealt with separately before the painting or staining can go ahead.
Surfaces we can paint
The areas included in your job are agreed when we discuss the quote.
- Suitable timber fences and gates
- Deck boards and stairs with an appropriate deck finish
- Pergola posts and other agreed timber details
- Handrails and balustrades
- One or both sides of a fence, as stated in the quote
Preparation to discuss
The preparation depends on the condition of your surfaces. These are points to cover when agreeing the work for your property.
- Identify the timber and existing coating where possible
- Check for loose, damaged or unsuitable areas before coating
- Clean dirt and surface build-up using a suitable method
- Remove failing coatings included in the preparation scope
- Sand rough or weathered areas where needed
- Allow for suitable drying conditions before applying the finish
Planning around your property
Discuss access, protection and handover arrangements before booking. These details depend on the work included in your quote.
- Agree access to both sides of a fence before starting
- Protect nearby plants, paths and surfaces from the coating work
- Discuss moving pots, furniture and other items off the deck
- Plan when the deck or gate will be unavailable for use
- Keep pets and household traffic away from wet coatings
- Explain the selected product's drying and ongoing care requirements
What affects the price
- Fence length or deck area
- The number of sides, posts, rails and stairs included
- The existing finish and amount of preparation required
- Whether the job uses paint, stain or oil
- Access, garden beds and nearby surfaces
- Coating changes and the condition of the timber
Work to discuss separately
- New fence or deck construction
- Structural repairs or replacement of rotten boards and supports
- Unagreed work on an adjoining property
- Stripping or coating work not listed in the quote
Common questions
Should I paint, stain or oil my deck?
It depends on the timber and the look you want. We can talk through the options for your fence or deck.
Can you paint the neighbour's side of the fence?
Access to an adjoining property and work on the other side of a fence must be agreed with the relevant property owner before it is included. Tell us whether you want one or both sides painted.
When can we use the deck again?
It depends on the selected product and conditions during application. We discuss access and drying requirements before coating the deck. Follow the product care advice before replacing furniture or returning to normal use.