End-of-Year Fence Staining Tips to Protect Your Wood Through Winter
As the year winds down and colder weather moves into West Texas, many Lubbock homeowners turn their attention to preparing their homes for winter. One area that often gets overlooked? Your wood fence.
Dry winter air, temperature swings, and the occasional freeze can all take a toll on unstained or poorly protected wood.
At TLM Homescapes, we specialize in fence installation and staining designed to stand up to the tough Lubbock climate. Below are our best end-of-year fence staining tips to help your fence stay strong, vibrant, and protected all winter long.
1. Start With a Thorough Fence Inspection
Before you apply any stain, take a slow walk around your fence and look for:
Splitting or warping boards
Loose pickets or rails
Discoloration or fading
Mold or mildew buildup
Water-damaged areas
Winter weather can make minor problems much worse, so repairing these issues now ensures your stain bonds properly and lasts longer.
2. Clean the Fence Before Staining
A clean surface is the foundation of a long-lasting finish. Remove:
Dirt and dust (which Lubbock has plenty of!)
Mildew
Old flaking stain
Grass or soil buildup at the bottom of boards
Use a gentle fence cleaner or low-pressure wash. Once clean, let the fence dry completely—typically 24–48 hours—before applying new stain.
3. Choose a Stain Made for Harsh Sun + Cold Nights
The Lubbock climate is unique: intense UV rays most of the year, followed by cold winter nights. This combination can cause cheaper stains to fade quickly.
Look for:
Oil-based or high-quality hybrid stains that soak deeply into the wood
UV-resistant pigments
Water-repellent formulas to block freezing moisture
Mildew-resistant additives
At TLM Homescapes, we prefer professional-grade stains that are formulated specifically for the Texas climate and offer long-term color stability.
4. Apply Stain Before Temperatures Drop Too Low
Late fall and early winter are still great times to stain in Lubbock—just be mindful of weather conditions.
For the best results:
Apply stain when temperatures are between 50°F and 80°F
Avoid staining right before a rain or freeze
Work during daylight so stain can begin curing properly
A well-timed application now will carry your fence safely through winter and deep into spring.
5. Don’t Forget the Bottom Edge of the Fence
The bottom edge of a wood fence absorbs the most moisture from wet soil, morning dew, and winter frost. Because builders and DIY homeowners often overlook sealing this area, it becomes a common point of premature wood rot.
If possible:
Apply stain to the bottom inch of the fence
Clear away soil or mulch touching the wood
Ensure proper drainage around posts
This small detail makes a big difference in long-term fence health.
6. Schedule Maintenance Before Winter Sets In
Even if your fence doesn’t need a full re-stain, a quick refresh or seal can dramatically extend its lifespan.
A maintenance coat every 2–3 years is ideal for Lubbock’s windy, sunny climate.
If your fence is fading, turning gray, or losing its protective layer, now is the perfect time to rejuvenate it.
7. Consider Professional Fence Staining for Best Results
DIY staining can be time-consuming—and easy to get wrong. Uneven coverage, poor cleaning, or the wrong stain formula may result in peeling or premature fading.
Hiring professionals like TLM Homescapes ensures:
Proper prep and cleaning
Even, beautiful coverage
Long-lasting protection
Premium stains built for Texas weather
Faster job completion with zero stress
Protect Your Fence This Winter With TLM Homescapes
If your fence is showing signs of wear or just needs a fresh coat before winter, the experts at TLM Homescapes in Lubbock are here to help. Our fence staining services are designed to keep your wood protected through every season—especially the harsh winter months.