How to Age a Fence Using Water & Baking Soda
Fences provide a secure place for children and pets to play and are also attractive additions to any backyard. A redwood or cedar fence will darken with age overtime, which gives it a beautiful weathered appearance. The use of baking soda, which interacts with the acids found on the wood, is a much faster way to give fences a weathered look without the use of chemicals.
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Pour 1 cup baking soda into a plastic bucket.
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Add 1 gallon warm water and stir the contents until the baking soda is well incorporated in the water.
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Dip a paintbrush into the mixture. Hold the brush over the bucket for three to five seconds to allow liquid to drain from the bristles.
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Paint the side of the fence that faces your property with the mixture, paying attention that each slat is completely covered, which will give a more uniform appearance.
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Paint the other side of the fence, if desired.
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Allow the fence to dry for 12 to 24 hours. Inspect each individual slat and cover any bare spots with the baking soda mixture. Allow any touch-ups to dry for at least one hour.
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Cover the fence with a layer of protecting sealant to protect the wood against the elements. Use a paint brush or sprayer to apply it in a single, even coat.
References
Tips
- Use an airless sprayer or hand-pump sprayer to cover the fence with the baking soda mixture to save time or if there is a lot of fence surface to cover.
Writer Bio
Residing in Chippewa Falls, Wis., Jaimie Zinski has been writing since 2009. Specializing in pop culture, film and television, her work appears on Star Reviews and various other websites. Zinski is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in history at the University of Wisconsin.
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