Looking to spruce up your home’s outdoor gathering space? A simple, fast way to make a big update is to give your trellis, awning, pergola or gazebo — which help protect your space from intense sun or rain — a fresh coat of paint or new stain.
This is a must-do to close out the summer season, especially if you notice worn, fading paint or stain on your pergola or trellis. This is a clear cut sign it’s time to freshen up and avoid the need for future costly replacements or repairs. Letting the condition of your pergola or trellis worsen over time can lead to irreversible decay and deterioration.
When Is the Right Time to Paint a Trellis or Pergola?
The snow, ice and cold weather can wreak havoc on the stain on wooden trellises and pergolas. Seeing exposed wood means it’s time to protect it with quality painting and staining. Look for heavy wood graining or fibers in the wood — both of which require the same maintenance. If water doesn’t bead up on the wood surfaces, water, harsh temperatures, and sun UV rays are probably penetrating and harming the surface below.
Should You Use Paint or Stain for a Pergola or Trellis?
Both painting and staining outdoor elements like trellises or pergolas can have a stunning effect and can really update the space. When you know the pros and cons of both paint and stain you’ll feel more confident in which option you should choose.
Your professional painter may recommend paint because it:
- Is thicker than stain
- Comes in more solid color options than transparent stains
- Is more uniform in its covering
- Has more sheens and finishes available
- Allows you to paint over previously painted surfaces (after preparation)
But you and your professional may want to use stain because it:
- Has a more natural look with wood graining
- May only require one coat for some types of stains
- Enhances wood surfaces, rather than covering them up
- Provides a more rugged feel, ideal if you want an ‘au naturel’ effect
- Is more resistant to chipping
Steps to Painting and Staining a Trellis or Pergola
Painting or staining a pergola or trellis is a big undertaking if you’re not sure where to start. It’s always a smart idea to turn to the pros who have all of the equipment and know-how needed, and can complete the project in an efficient amount of time. Below are the steps the pros will take when they paint or stain a trellis or pergola:
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
No matter the time of year, it’s always a good idea to prep the surface of the pergola or trellis with a good scrubbing or soft power washing. This helps eliminate any dirt and mildew before applying the proper paint or stain.
Step 2: Apply Acrylic Paint or Stain
The pros know that the best type of paint to use on pergolas or trellises is acrylic paint because it’s weather resistant and long-lasting. Your professional painters will apply the oil-based paint on a day when the humidity levels are low so that it dries quicker.
If staining rather than painting, think of what color or shade will best complement the rest of your home’s exterior. You don’t want the shade of your pergola or trellis to clash with the rest of your home. Wood stains are available in a range of light and dark tints, and your professional painters can help you select the right shade. Keep in mind that a solid stain will completely change the original color of the wood, whereas a semi-transparent stain enhances the natural shade of the wood.
Step 3: Apply a Water Sealant
Applying a sealant after the paint or stain has dried will help prevent damage such as warps and cracks. It will help keep the pergola or trellis looking fresh and clean over time. Think of the sealant as a top coat that offers continuous protection from the elements.
No matter how you decide to update your pergola or trellis — with a fresh coat of paint or a new stain — it’s sure to add curb appeal to your home’s exterior gathering space. Contact professional painters to ensure the job gets done right.
Professional Interior and Exterior Painting Services
Our home painting experts are ready to help you tackle your painting project. We provide trellis/pergola painting or staining, deck/fence staining and exterior house painting to take the workload off your shoulders. Contact us today for a free painting quote.
