- 1). Test the water repellency of your fence. Water that seeps into the wood can cause damage to the cedar and results in a gray discoloration. Splash water on a section of fencing. Water that beads up and runs off the wood signifies that your fence's finish is still protecting the wood. Water that soaks into the structure means it's time to refinish your fence.
- 2). Apply a water-repellent protectant to your cedar fencing once every year or two, or more often if your fence fails the repellency test. Products suitable to treat cedar are available at your local home improvement store. Choose a transparent "stain" that will preserve the beauty of your fence and protect it from water seeping into the wood.
- 3). Paint your cedar fence with a semi-transparent finish to further protect the surface from graying, suggests the Western Red Cedar Export Association. Re-apply a new finish once every one-and-a-half to two years for the best protection against decay and damage.
- 4). Control mildew growth on your fence to prevent graying. Mildew that appears on outdoor cedar structures like decks and fences can turn the wood gray. Use a scrub brush to wash your fence with a solution of one part oxygen bleach --- a household bleach that contains hydrogen peroxide --- and three parts water. This solution will remove mold and mildew from the wood. Wash as often as needed, when you notice new growth.
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