The best/most protective exterior wooden fence paint?

[Mazonas]

Painted my back garden fence with water based paint.. paint started to come off and dade after a few years. In some places and parts of a fence it has completely come off just withing a few years.

Whats the vest durability and protection vise outdoor wooden fence paint?

Thanks.

[dewaltdisney]

Was the previous finish oil based? This usually happens when you try to paint water-based over oil as it does not stick on well. The water based stuff does not have the longevity of solvent based finishes and it needs a freshen up every so often when you see it dried out and cracking.

DWD

[big-all]

in general most treatment does nothing other than colour indeed it can encourage rot by trapping water at the base that has entered further up the panel
i never ever treat fence panels but replace the timber surrounds as required with 19x38mm tile baton as required
i make my own fence caps from 25x50 tile baton that are 3x the strength off the fitted cap and replace as required
the panels last perhaps 20 to 30 years plus but not an option unless you have the skills and tools to convert as overall material costs are about the same but saved treatment time and extending fence life is far more rewarding than landfill

[Mazonas]

Was the previous finish oil based?

DWD

It was brand new fence just fitted once I moved in.. the way they come from shops. didn't seem to be painted. But didnt seem to be natural plain wood neither.. possible covered with some "protective liquid". Not sure. But definitely didnt seem to have any paint on it.

[dewaltdisney]

They are usually dipped in a tank of preservatives. Most cheaper panels are made this way and most are dipped into a water based solution. You did say that the paint you put on faded after a couple of years and this may be the factor. Sun and rain will gradually break it down which is why it is recommended to repaint yearly. Personally I have never bothered as the sun and wind dries the panels through. I changed a few this year and they must have been 20 years old.

DWD

[jrslinteriors]

If you're looking for the best and most durable exterior wooden fence paint, I'd recommend opting for a high-quality oil-based wood paint or a microporous paint designed specifically for exterior woodwork. These paints offer excellent protection against weathering, UV rays, and moisture, which are often the culprits behind peeling and fading.

A few tips for maximum durability:

Prepare the Surface Properly: Sand down any loose or peeling paint and clean the surface thoroughly to ensure the new paint adheres well.

Use a Primer: If your previous paint was water-based, apply a compatible primer first to create a strong base for the new coat.

Opt for Trusted Brands: Brands like Ronseal or Sadolin are widely recommended in the UK for their long-lasting and protective finishes. Look for products labelled as "weatherproof" or "UV-resistant."

Consider Stains or Wood Treatments: If you're open to alternatives, a wood stain or a wood preserver followed by a clear protective topcoat might provide better longevity and protection than traditional paint.

Maintenance: Even with the best paint, regular maintenance like cleaning and touch-ups will extend its lifespan significantly.

For particularly harsh weather conditions, it might be worth sealing the edges and ends of your fence panels as well. This prevents water absorption, which is a common cause of paint failure.

I hope this helps you find a solution for a beautifully painted and long-lasting fence!