Fences are the most neglected painted surface on most properties. They get weather from both sides, sit against wet soil at the base, and nobody notices them until they look grey and tired next to a freshly painted house.
Paint or stain a fence?
| Finish | Look | Lifespan | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior paint | Solid colour, grain hidden | 5–7 years | Best coverage, can peel if moisture gets behind |
| Stain | Grain visible, tinted | 3–5 years | Fades rather than peels, easy to refresh |
| Oil | Natural, minimal colour | 1–2 years | Most natural look, most frequent upkeep |
| Colorbond touch-up | Matched metal finish | Long | For metal fences, needs a metal system |
For timber paling fences, paint gives the biggest visual change and the longest interval. Stain suits people who want the timber to still read as timber, and it is far more forgiving when it comes time to recoat.
Preparation is most of the job
- Clean to remove dirt, mould and grey weathered fibre
- Let it dry fully; damp timber is the main cause of early failure
- Replace any rotten palings or rails, especially at the base
- Refix loose palings and protruding nails
- Sand rough or splintered areas
- Prime bare timber and any repairs
- Apply two coats, working paint into the end grain and joints
The base of a fence is where rot starts, because the timber wicks moisture from the soil. Check there before deciding to paint rather than repair.
Both sides, and the neighbour question
A boundary fence has a neighbour on the other side. Before painting, it is worth a conversation. You generally need their agreement for a shared fence, particularly for a colour change, and access to the other side to do the job properly.
In Victoria, fencing between neighbours is covered by the Fences Act, and disputes are common enough that a quick chat beforehand saves a lot of trouble. This is general information, not legal advice.
Colour choices
Dark greys, charcoal and black have become the default for modern homes, and they make gardens look larger by receding visually. Heritage homes often suit deeper greens or period colours. Whatever you choose, keep in mind that very dark colours absorb heat, which is harder on timber in full sun.
Matching the fence to the house trims usually looks more considered than a fence colour chosen in isolation.
Gates, pergolas and screens
If the fence is being done, it is worth including gates, pergolas, privacy screens and planter boxes in the same visit. They weather at a similar rate and matching them later rarely looks seamless.
Talk to your local team
Expert Painting and Renovation is a family-run, Aussie-local company based in Richmond, with more than 9 years of experience. We handle fence painting and staining alongside decks, pergolas and exterior timber, so the whole outside of the property matches.
See our exterior painting service, our deck restoration work, or our stained timber restoration service.
FAQ
How often should a fence be repainted?
Painted fences typically last five to seven years, stained three to five, depending on exposure.
Do I need my neighbour’s permission?
For a shared boundary fence, generally yes, especially for a colour change. Have the conversation first.
Can a grey, weathered fence be painted?
Usually yes, once cleaned and dried. Rotten palings need replacing first.
Should both sides be done?
Ideally. Painting one side only leaves the other exposed and weathering faster.
Related guides
Tired fence letting the place down? Contact Expert Painting and Renovation for a quote.
About Expert Painting & Renovation
Expert Painting and Renovation is an Aussie-local, family-run company based in Richmond, Melbourne, with more than 9 years of experience in residential and commercial painting and renovation. Our specialists deliver premium workmanship, timely service and durable finishes designed for Melbourne homes.
- Ceiling crack repairs
- Sagging ceiling restoration
- Water‑damaged ceiling repairs
- Cornice replacement
- Full plastering services
- Interior & exterior painting
- Weatherboard restoration
- Deck & timber maintenance
- Roof painting
- Rendering & texture coating
- Commercial Painting
- Plastering Services
- House Painting
Whether you need maintenance advice, a single-room refresh or a full home makeover, our team is just a call away.
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