If you’re asking ‘’Exactly what is the best paint for wooden gates?’, we don’t blame you! 

With stains, waxes, primers and many different varieties of wood paint to consider, it’s no wonder people aren’t sure. 

That’s exactly why the gates and fencing experts at Stellar Gates have put together this simple guide. We’ll take you through the best options for achieving an even, lasting coat of paint for wooden garden gates. 

Let’s get to work.

Top Paint Options for Wooden Gates

When it comes to selecting the best paint for wooden gates, you have some popular options to weigh up. 

While we opt for Scandinavian Redwood and Afrikan Iroko as our timber of choice for their aesthetic and versatility, these methods can be used on any outdoor wood - whether you’re painting something as large as wooden driveway gates or a simple side gate.

So, let’s take a look at the benefits of the key paint and wood treatments available.

Exterior Wood Paint

This is what you probably envisioned when you imagined a painted wooden gate. It’s a go-to choice as it offers robust coverage. Ensure you pick a quality exterior paint, not just a standard indoor paint, as it’s formulated to withstand harsh weather conditions.

Our top picks:

Sadolin Superdec Opaque - Our choice of one of the best wood paints available due to its durability. It offers 10-year protection and resists cracking, peeling, and flaking. It's self-priming and available in a variety of colours.

Zinsser Allcoat - Available in matt, satin and gloss finishes. This versatile paint offers up to 15 years of protection in a range of self-priming colours.

Wood Stains

If you’re considering painting your gate because it’s looking faded or a little worse for wear, you might be interested to know that you can restore your gate without having to paint if you prefer the natural grain look. 

Stains are one of the easiest ways to tint the colour of your wood without painting. 

Note: A wood stain will deepen or darken wood but it won’t allow you to lighten it. To opt for a lighter shade for your wooden gate, you’ll need to paint it.

Our top pick:

Treatex External Oil - We recommend this particular staining oil because it allows you to choose from clear, warm or full dark tones while also providing UV and water protection. Lots of stains will change the colour but won’t add any level of resistance to the elements.

Wood Varnishes 

Varnishes create a hard, protective barrier on the wood. This can give a lustrous gloss to the wood. However, it’s worth noting that as it’s totally clear, it doesn’t give any additional colour or opacity. 

As it doesn’t give any cover against imperfections, you’ll need to ensure you prep the wooden gate fully before varnishing like removing green algae, for instance.

Top pick:

Sadolin Yacht Varnish - This traditional clear varnish offers a durable, high-gloss finish that's perfect for exterior woodwork such as gates.

Key Considerations When Choosing Paint for Wooden Gates

When choosing the best paint for wooden gates, there are some key factors to bear in mind - not least of them the changeable UK weather! 

Here’s what to look out for:

• Durability - Look for paints that offer long-lasting protection, ideally 10 years or more.
  
  
• Weather Resistance - The best outdoor paint for wood can withstand rain, sun, and temperature fluctuations typical of the British climate. It might cost more, but will protect the paint coat from fading, cracking and warping.
  
  
• Flexibility - Opt for paints that have a level of flexibility to them. This might sound odd but is essentially to prevent cracking and peeling as the wood expands and contracts with changing weather conditions.
  
  
• Finish - Decide between matt, satin or gloss finish options depending on which look you prefer.
  
  
• Self-Priming - Some exterior paints are self-priming, meaning they don’t require an initial coat of primer before you go in with your wood paint. This will save you time and prevent mess, even if it costs a bit more.
  
  
• Colour – Consider whether you want a solid colour or a more natural wood look. Get inspired with our list of the best wooden garden gate paint colours!

Tips for Preparing Your Wooden Gates for Painting

Now that we’ve comprehensively answered what is the best paint for wooden gates, we’ll share some tips on how to prep your wooden gate for painting. 

After all, even the best wood paint could look uneven if the gate isn’t properly prepared. That’s what gives a long-lasting and professional looking finish. 

Here’s how to get it:

Clean the Surface - Use a stiff brush or pressure washer to remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the gate. Otherwise it could ruin the smooth finish.

Sand the Wood: Give the surface of the wood a light sanding to create a perfectly smooth base for the paint to adhere to.

Repair Any Damage - Fill any cracks or holes with wood filler.

Apply a Primer - As discussed, the best wood paint is self-priming. However, if you can’t get hold of it or it isn’t available in the colour you want, apply a layer of wood specific primer.

Stellar Gates by name and nature

That’s a wrap on our guide answering what is the best paint for wooden gates! We hope you’re feeling prepared to get your overalls on and spruce up your gates. 

However, if they’re past the point of repair, simply browse our full range to find a sturdy and long-lasting replacement. 

We’ve crafted a range of styles of wooden gates from garden gates through to less easy to find options like sliding gates and asymmetrical gates.

Our customers love that:

• Our timber is always sustainably sourced by FSC and PEFC-certified suppliers
• We carry gates in a huge range of made-to-order sizes for a bespoke fit
• Our product quality and customer care is second to none

Here’s what one verified customer review on our 5-star Trustpilot had to say:

‘Delighted with the entire process…great value, great service from everyone involved from beginning to end…’

• Sue, Trustpilot

Have any questions about our quality gates? Simply get in touch and the team will get back to you with answers.