If you’re looking at your sun-faded or weather-beaten fence wondering whether to paint or stain it, you’re not alone. Homeowners in Vero Beach, Port St. Lucie, and coastal Florida face a unique challenge: Florida’s climate is rough on wood.
So which option is better—painting or staining your fence? Let’s compare.
What Florida Weather Does to Wood Fences:
UV rays bleach and dry out the wood
Humidity causes mold and mildew growth
Rain and salt air lead to rot and peeling paint
Termites and wood-boring insects are everywhere
Painting Your Fence: Pros & Cons
Pros:
Offers a solid, colorful finish
Can provide excellent UV protection
Easier to match to house trim and style
More coverage if your wood is in rough shape
Cons:
Can peel, bubble, or crack if not prepped correctly
Hides wood grain
Traps moisture if wood isn’t sealed properly
Requires more scraping/repainting over time in Florida’s humidity
Staining Your Fence: Pros & Cons
Pros:
Soaks into the wood and allows it to breathe
Shows off the natural wood grain
Doesn’t peel—just fades gradually
Easier to maintain long-term in humid climates
Mold/mildew-resistant if high-quality stain is used
Cons:
Doesn’t provide as many color options as paint
Needs reapplication every 2–5 years depending on exposure
Less coverage on heavily weathered or patched fences
Our Professional Take for Florida Homes:
For most homeowners on the Treasure Coast, we recommend staining over painting—especially if you want a long-term solution with less maintenance. However, painting is great for older fences or when you want to match your home’s style.
Either way, Reel Painters LLC can help you choose the right option and apply it properly so it lasts in Florida’s heat, rain, and salt air.
We Use:
Premium Wood Stains & Sealers designed for tropical climates
Florida Paints and other UV- and mildew-resistant coatings
Thorough prep: pressure washing, sanding, and sealing as needed
Serving Vero Beach, Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, and Nearby Areas