A fresh coat of paint can protect a chain link fence from rust and corrosion. It can also help the fence better match your landscaping or home exterior.
Painting your chain-link fence is a simple project that you can knock out in a few days. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Select Your Paint
For chain link fences, aluminum paint is often the best choice. It adheres well to metal surfaces and provides rust protection. Look for paints specifically formulated for exterior metal use, as these will withstand weather conditions better than general-purpose paints. Oil-based paints can also be a good option, offering durability and a smooth finish.
Before selecting your paint, consider the metal type. For galvanized steel chain link, painting contractor John Dee recommends following with one coat of a solvent-based galvanized metal primer and two coats of a rust-inhibitive acrylic. If the fence is ungalvanized, he suggests applying a self-priming, rust-inhibitive alkyd paint with a low sheen.
Pro Tip: Painting contractor John Dee advises: “I only use oil-based primers because they adhere to the wood so tenaciously and block the brown stains that bleed through cedar and redwood, something the latex primers can’t do.” While his expertise is with wood fences, the same adherence principles apply to metal surfaces.
Step 2: Prepare the Fence for Paint
Start by thoroughly cleaning your chain link fence to remove dirt, debris, and loose paint or rust. Use a wire brush to scrub the entire surface, paying extra attention to areas with visible rust or flaking paint. For stubborn grime, a pressure washer can be effective, but be careful not to damage the fence with too much pressure. Allow the fence to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
If the rust is extensive, consider using a chemical rust remover or renting a sandblaster for more efficient removal. Once you’ve addressed all problem areas, wipe down the fence with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris from sanding.
Step 3: Paint the Fence
Use a long-nap roller to apply paint to both sides of the fence. Start at the top of the fence and work your way down to avoid drips on freshly painted areas. Slowly work the roller over the chain link, reaching into bends and recesses. To prevent excessive drips and runs, don’t overload the roller with paint. For areas the roller can’t reach, use a brush to apply paint carefully.
Allow the first coat to dry completely before assessing if a second coat is necessary. In most cases, two coats will provide the best coverage and durability.
Pro Tip: When rolling paint on textured surfaces like chain link, overlap your passes by 30 to 50 percent. As painting professionals advise: “Notice that I overlap it, I would say 30 to 50%. By design, that’s what you want.” This overlapping technique ensures complete coverage of all the wire surfaces and prevents missed spots in the fence’s recessed areas.
Tips for a Professional-Looking Paint Finish
To achieve the best results when painting your chain link fence, consider these tips:
- Choose a calm, dry day with moderate temperatures for painting
- Use drop cloths to protect surrounding plants and surfaces from paint splatters
- Paint in sections to maintain a wet edge and avoid lap marks
- Clean your tools promptly after use to keep them in good condition for future projects
- Allow ample drying time between coats and before using the fence
Pro Tip: Bruce Schneider, who worked as a pro for 12 years before taking over training for brush maker Purdy, advises: “Breathe out or hold your breath while cutting in along trim or where walls meet—It’ll help you keep a straight line.” When painting chain link, this steady-hand technique proves especially valuable for maintaining clean lines where the fence meets posts or rails.
Preserve the Environment
When cleaning or disposing of paint materials, follow local guidelines for hazardous waste disposal. Proper disposal is important for protecting the environment.
Cleaning Tips
Clean your brushes and rollers immediately after use with appropriate cleaning solutions. Mineral spirits are often required if using oil-based paints. For water-based paints, soap and water should suffice. Clean tools will last longer and be ready for your next project.
