Virginia & Washington DC
202-743-5072
Fence Staining & Painting in Arlington, VA
A well-maintained fence is essential for privacy, security, and curb appeal in Arlington’s residential neighborhoods. From the classic wood privacy fences in Donaldson Run and Country Club Hills to the picket fences of Lyon Park and Ashton Heights, Northern Star Painters provides professional fence staining and painting services that protect your investment.
Virginia’s climate is brutal on untreated wood fences. Hot, humid summers promote mold and mildew, while freeze-thaw cycles crack and split wood fibers. UV rays fade and gray unprotected lumber in just one season. Our fence staining creates a protective barrier that extends your fence’s life by 3–5 years between treatments.
We work with all fence types common in Arlington — cedar, pressure-treated pine, redwood, vinyl, aluminum, and wrought iron. Each material requires a different approach, and we select the right products and techniques for your specific fence type and desired look.
Why Choose Northern Star Painters
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All Fence Types
Cedar, pine, redwood, vinyl, aluminum, and wrought iron — we handle every material.
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Weather Protection
UV-blocking stains and weather-resistant paints that stand up to Virginia’s demanding climate.
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Any Finish Style
Transparent to solid stains, plus paint in any color — choose the look that fits your property.
Our Process
1
Inspection
Every board, post, and rail checked for rot, loose fasteners, and structural issues.
2
Power Wash & Prep
Thorough cleaning removes dirt, mildew, and old finish. Rough surfaces sanded smooth.
3
Stain or Paint Application
Premium product brushed and back-rolled for even penetration and complete coverage.
4
Final Inspection
Complete walkthrough checking for missed spots, drips, and uniform coverage.
Fence Repair Before Staining
Before any stain or paint goes on, we inspect every component of your fence. Rotted posts, cracked rails, warped pickets, and loose fasteners are all repaired or replaced before finishing begins. Staining over damaged wood is a waste of time and money.
We use rot-resistant materials for replacements — pressure-treated lumber for structural posts and cedar or composite for visible pickets. All new wood is primed and stained to match the rest of the fence seamlessly.
For older Arlington fences that have grayed and weathered, we apply a wood brightener after power washing to restore the natural color before staining. This step dramatically improves stain absorption and final appearance.
Choosing the Right Fence Finish
Semi-transparent stains are the most popular choice for Arlington wood fences. They add color and UV protection while allowing the natural wood grain to show through. They typically last 2–3 years in Arlington’s climate before needing refreshing.
Solid stains and paints provide maximum protection and color options. White picket fences, dark privacy fences, and custom colors are all possible. Solid finishes last 3–5 years and are ideal for older fences where the wood grain isn’t worth showcasing.
For metal fences — wrought iron, aluminum, and steel — we use rust-inhibiting primers and durable exterior metal paints. Proper prep including wire brushing, rust treatment, and priming ensures the paint adheres properly and resists chipping.
We also offer vinyl fence cleaning and restoration. While vinyl doesn’t need painting, it does accumulate mold, mildew, and staining over time. Our soft washing service restores vinyl fences to like-new condition.
Maintaining Your Arlington Fence
Keep vegetation trimmed away from your fence — at least 6 inches of clearance. Plants trap moisture against wood and block airflow, accelerating rot and stain failure. This is especially important in Arlington’s shaded neighborhoods.
Address sprinkler overspray that regularly hits your fence. Repeated wetting from irrigation is a leading cause of premature stain failure and wood rot on Arlington fences.
Schedule fence staining in dry weather with temperatures between 50°F and 90°F. Late spring and early fall are ideal in Arlington. We monitor forecasts closely and never stain when rain is expected within 24 hours.
Arlington’s distinct four-season climate makes proper fence maintenance essential. Summer heat and UV rays fade stain, winter freeze-thaw cycles crack paint, and spring rain encourages mold and mildew growth. Our premium exterior stains and paints include UV inhibitors and mildew-resistant additives that protect your fence through every season, keeping it looking great for years between maintenance cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does fence staining cost in Arlington?
Fence staining typically costs $3–$6 per linear foot depending on height, condition, and stain type. A standard 150-linear-foot privacy fence runs $600–$1,200.
How often should I restain my fence?
Every 2–3 years for semi-transparent stains and 3–5 years for solid stains in Arlington’s climate. Fences with southern exposure may need more frequent treatment.
Can you paint a wood fence any color?
Yes. With proper priming, wood fences can be painted any color. We use exterior-grade acrylic paint designed for wood surfaces. White, black, gray, and dark green are the most popular choices in Arlington.
Ready to get started in Arlington?
Call 202-743-5072 or book your free estimate online.
Areas Served
What Our Customers Say
“Northern Star Painters did an amazing job on our entire interior. Professional, clean, and the attention to detail was outstanding. Highly recommend!”
— Sarah M., Arlington, VA
“We had our cabinets refinished and they look brand new. The crew was on time, respectful of our home, and the results exceeded our expectations.”
— James R., McLean, VA
“Best painting company we’ve used. Fair pricing, great communication throughout the project, and the exterior paint job looks incredible.”
— David L., Ashburn, VA
✅ 2-Year Workmanship Warranty ✅ Licensed & Insured — $2M Liability Coverage ✅ 5-Star Google Rated — 48 Reviews ✅ Free Detailed Estimates — No Obligation
Virginia Class A Contractor | Locally Owned & Operated | Serving Northern Virginia & Washington DC