{"id":15753,"date":"2017-07-20T00:25:02","date_gmt":"2017-07-20T05:25:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ozcobp.com\/?p=15753"},"modified":"2021-10-21T17:58:32","modified_gmt":"2021-10-21T17:58:32","slug":"make-fence-look-better-dressing-ugly-fence","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ozcobp.com\/dev\/make-fence-look-better-dressing-ugly-fence\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Make a Fence Look Better: Dressing Up Your Ugly Fence"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When we moved into our house, it was very clear that the old fence had been installed with just one thing in mind: utility. Let’s not mince words: this fence was just plain ugly and aesthetics were obviously not taken into consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n

We purchased the house as a bit of a fixer-upper, so it was basically impossible to convince my wife that we should postpone an interior remodeling project and instead, put the money toward installing a new fence. Yet the summer months were rapidly approaching and our family tends to spend a lot of time outdoors, grilling, playing and just enjoying the warm weather. I knew I couldn’t make it through an entire summer looking at that eyesore so I set out on a mission to find ways to improve that awful fence.<\/span><\/p>\n

It took some hard work, but I was able to transform our fence into something that was actually quite attractive. In fact, I may even allow it to remain standing for a couple more years before we invest in a replacement. So if you’re wondering how to make a fence look better, I have a few answers. It’s all about getting creative and understanding why your fence is so unsightly in the first place.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Refinish the Fence to Create a Cohesive Look<\/h4>\n

Many ugly fences–mine included–are that way because they have an inconsistent finish or have an overall look that doesn\u2019t fit with the rest of the property. Mine had problems in both areas. The prior homeowner had started stripping the paint off the fence, but only got halfway down one of the three sides. So one portion was bare wood, while the rest was a hideous shade of brown. It appears they tried (and failed) to match the color to the house and shed, but it was about five shades too \u201corangey.\u201d Instead of creating a look of cohesion, it clashed. Painfully. To make matters worse, the deck was yet another shade of brown. <\/span><\/p>\n

The wood of the fence was actually in good condition, so I chose to strip off all the old paint (a painstaking process) and then used<\/span> a long-lasting combination stain and wood sealer<\/span><\/a> to create an even, cohesive look that matched the deck and complemented the house. The right stain can really transform the look of your fence, bringing out the wood grain and natural hues and helping you avoid a structure that looks \u201ctoo new\u201d and out of place. If you\u2019re stuck on what color to choose, we have some <\/span>tips on how to choose a stain color for your fence<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Improve Your Fence with New Hardware<\/h4>\n

The original fencing company had used cheap hardware. What’s worse, they weren’t even consistent, as some hardware had a silver tone, other pieces were golden, and the gate hardware was black. So I set out to install<\/span> new fencing hardware<\/span><\/a> that wouldn\u2019t corrode away in a couple years, including the bolts, brackets and<\/span> gate hardware<\/span><\/a>. I was also careful to pick out hardware that would match with <\/span>the hardware that I’d purchased to build a new pergola<\/span><\/a>. And obviously, make sure you <\/span>find the right replacement parts for your fence hardware<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

I tend to prefer black hardware, as doesn\u2019t look too prominent, especially at a distance, and it gives things a more finished, less industrial, look. So if you feel like your fence \u201csticks out\u201d too much or looks cheap, black hardware can be a great trick for improving the overall appearance. Painting metal fence posts can also help as well, although you’ll need to choose a metal-friendly paint and you’ll want to be sure to prep the metal before painting. Also, use a bit of sandpaper to scuff up the metal’s surface; this will help the paint adhere more effectively.<\/span><\/p>\n

How to Make a Fence Look Better with Decorative Additions<\/h4>\n

Some fences don\u2019t look good because they\u2019re just plain and unfinished looking. This is an area where you can have a bit of fun. Consider these methods for dressing up a fence:<\/span><\/p>\n