The Best Fence Stains to Protect Your Fence in Johnson County
Built to last. Stained to protect. Trusted by homeowners across Olathe, Overland Park, Lenexa, and beyond.
If you’ve invested in a cedar or treated pine fence, staining and sealing isn’t just optional—it’s essential. At Picket Pros, we use only the best fence staining products on the market to make sure your fence stays strong, beautiful, and protected from the elements.
When you invest in a wood fence—especially cedar or treated pine—you want it to look beautiful and stand strong for years. But in a place like Johnson County, Kansas, where we see scorching summers, freezing winters, heavy rain, and constant sun exposure, raw wood alone just won’t cut it.
That’s where professional-grade stain and seal products come in.
At Picket Pros, we specialize in fence installation, repair, and premium staining and sealing—and we only use the best products in the industry: Ready Seal, Wood Defender, and Expert Stain & Seal. In this post, we’re breaking down why staining matters, what products we trust, and how to make sure your fence stays protected against warping, fading, rot, and more.
Why You Should Stain and Seal Your Fence
Unprotected wood is highly vulnerable to the elements. Rainwater can soak in and lead to swelling, cracking, and rot. Intense sunlight dries out boards, fades their color, and causes shrinkage. Without a proper seal, even a high-quality cedar or pine fence can begin deteriorating within just a couple of years.
Top 5 Reasons to Stain and Seal Your Fence:
Prevent Warping and Cracking
Uneven moisture absorption is a major cause of warping. Stains lock out water while allowing the wood to breathe.Protect Against UV Damage
Sunlight breaks down lignin in the wood fibers, causing fading and weakening. Quality stains include UV blockers to maintain color and strength.Enhance Natural Wood Beauty
Stains highlight the grain of cedar and pine while adding rich, lasting color that boosts curb appeal.Stop Mold, Mildew, and Algae Growth
Moisture and shade can create the perfect environment for organic growth. Stains with anti-fungal properties help keep your fence clean.Extend Lifespan of Your Investment
A stained and sealed fence lasts significantly longer—up to 2–4x longer than untreated wood.
Our Trusted Products: What We Use and Why
We don’t believe in using big-box, budget-grade stains. Why? Because they don’t penetrate as deeply, don’t last as long, and don’t provide the protection that Kansas homeowners truly need.
Here are the three top-tier products we use for every staining job:
🟤 Ready Seal
Why we use it:
Ready Seal is known for its ease of application and deep-penetrating oil formula. It doesn’t require a primer, and it blends beautifully—making it nearly impossible to mess up.
Great for DIY or pro use
Comes in a variety of rich, natural tones
No lap marks or runs
Self-levels during application
Available in semi-transparent finishes
Perfect for: Cedar privacy fences, horizontal modern fences, and any project where uniformity and durability matter.
🟠 Wood Defender
Why we use it:
Wood Defender is engineered for professional contractors and is especially popular in high-volume jobs. It offers long-term color retention and powerful mold resistance.
Fast-drying oil-based stain
Great for both residential and commercial use
Deep grain penetration for lasting protection
Available in transparent and semi-transparent options
Perfect for: Tall perimeter fences, large HOA jobs, and clients who want a strong color presence.
🔴 Expert Stain & Seal
Why we use it:
This contractor-grade product is made by professionals, for professionals. It’s high in solids, low in VOCs, and provides unmatched longevity.
Longest-lasting option in our lineup
UV-blocking pigments protect even in direct sun
Enhances wood grain while sealing out moisture
Excellent for both new fences and restorations
Perfect for: High-exposure fences, slatted designs, and premium jobs where lifespan is the #1 priority.
What Makes a Fence Stain “High Quality”?
Not all stains are created equal. A high-quality fence stain:
Penetrates deep into the wood (not just surface-level)
Contains UV inhibitors to prevent fading
Is oil-based or hybrid for better absorption
Includes anti-fungal properties
Does not peel, crack, or flake over time
Holds up for 2–4 years with proper care
Low-end stains might look decent at first but often begin fading or peeling within 6–12 months—especially in Kansas weather.
Our 4-Step Fence Staining Process
At Picket Pros, we take pride in our process just as much as our materials. Here’s how we ensure a flawless finish every time:
1. Inspection & Cleaning
We inspect your fence for existing damage, mildew, or debris. If needed, we’ll gently pressure wash and dry the wood before application.
2. Stain & Seal Application
We apply your selected stain using professional spray and brush techniques, ensuring consistent coverage and penetration.
3. Detail Work & Edge Protection
We take the time to detail around posts, gates, and hard-to-reach areas. Nearby surfaces are protected with tarps and edging tools.
4. Final Walkthrough & Maintenance Tips
Once dry, we inspect the project with you and provide tips for maintaining your fence year-round.
Does Staining Help Prevent Warping?
Yes — and this is a big one.
While no product can 100% eliminate warping (since wood is a natural material), staining and sealing drastically reduce the risk. By controlling how moisture enters and exits the wood, stains help keep boards stable through seasonal temperature changes.
We see the difference all the time: unstained fences tend to warp, crack, or cup within 1–2 years. Stained fences? They stay straight and strong for much longer.
What Fences Need Staining?
Here’s where stain makes the biggest difference:
Cedar fences – These are beautiful but need protection to maintain color and strength
Treated pine fences – More porous and moisture-prone without sealing
Horizontal slat fences – Stylish, but vulnerable to warping
Shadowbox or privacy fences – Often in shade or high-moisture areas
New installations – Ideal time to stain is 3–6 weeks after installation
Our Service Areas
We offer fence staining and sealing throughout Johnson County, including:
Not sure if you’re in our service area? Give us a call—we’re happy to check.
Customer Spotlight: What Local Clients Say
“We had Picket Pros stain our cedar privacy fence and it looks incredible. Color is rich and uniform, and their crew was fast and respectful. Highly recommend!”
– Drew W., Gardner
“We used Ready Seal with Picket Pros and it’s holding up amazing after two years. They even helped fix a few warped boards before staining.”
– Bayly H., Olathe
Ready to Protect Your Fence?
Staining isn’t just about looks—it’s about protecting your investment. A properly stained fence adds value, lasts longer, and gives your home the polished curb appeal it deserves.
Whether your fence is brand new or a few years old, we can help you bring it back to life and keep it looking great for seasons to come.
📞 Call now: 913-358-5305
📩 Request your quote at picketpros.com