- 1). Select an outdoor grade stain to cover and add color to your fence posts.
- 2). Set the posts on the saw horses and give each post a light sanding - just enough to smooth all sharp edges and remove all burs and splinters.
- 3). Paint the posts with the outdoor primer. Pay special attention to the top and bottom ends of the posts, which should each receive extra amounts of primer. Let these posts dry for at least 48 hours before they are set into concrete.
- 4). Check the concrete to make sure that it has completely set. This usually occurs within the first 48 hours after it is poured.
- 5). Take a utility knife and cut the cardboard to make a small template to protect the concrete and vegetation from spilled stain. This is done by first cutting the cardboard into two pieces that are approximately two-foot square. Then make a notch with the utility knife, so that each piece of cardboard slides around the post.
- 6). Stir the stain thoroughly and apply the stain with the paintbrush. Cover the post completely especially the top of the post to prevent rot.
- 7). Let the post dry for at least 48 hours and then, if necessary, apply another coat of stain.
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