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How To Paint A Wooden Deck

What kind of paint do you use on a wood deck?

Acrylic paint works great on all types of wood decks — from lumber to cedar to redwood — and if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wait for a couple of days for your deck to dry before you apply the second coat, you shouldn’t have any trouble. Clean up is a breeze when using acrylic paint, too.

How do you prepare a deck for painting?

Applying a deck wash product to completely clean all wood surfaces. Allow to dry thoroughly, at least 48 hours. Sanding any ridges or lifted grain with 80-grit sandpaper; cleaning up any dust. Protecting adjacent surfaces, such as siding, with painter’s tape and plastic sheeting.

How do you paint a wood deck?

How To Refinish A Painted Deck Inspect deck surfaces for paint failures. If deck paint is holding, no need to strip old paint. Remove all peeling paint down to bare wood. Scuff sanding is good, even for old deck paint. Rinse off using low pressure garden hose. Let dry couple days.

Should I prime my deck before painting?

Priming the Deck As with any painting job, it is also very important to prime the surface before applying paint or stain. Primer will close off small pores in the wood, allowing the paint or stain to hold better once applied.

Is it better to paint or stain a deck?

While staining may take less time than painting, painting often does a better job of filling the cracks, covering imperfections, and provides longer lasting protection. Paint also is typically more rot resistance and does a better job of preventing mold and sun damage.

Can you paint over an old deck?

Restore an old wood deck, even if it’s worn, cracked and splintery. Simply paint it with a thick, acrylic deck restoration coating, which will create a smooth surface that lasts for years.

Should I pressure wash my deck before painting?

There is a common misconception that just pressure washing a deck prior to staining is all you need to do in order to prep your deck for stain. Pressure washing can help, but if you want your stain to last, using a good deck cleaner and brightener on the deck prior to pressure washing will provide you the best result.

Should I power wash deck before painting?

Power washing a deck is a quick and efficient way to get it ready for painting or staining, but it isn’t a necessary prerequisite. There are less aggressive alternatives to power washing that remove stains and surface discoloration, and if you don’t have success with any of them, you can always sand the deck.

What happens if it rains after you paint your deck?

If it rains within 48 hours of applying a treatment, the water will soak into the wood, and try and displace the stain. This can cause a blotchy, flaky look, rather than a smooth, even, coat. If it rains immediately after you’ve stained the wood, the stain will peel and flake off.

How many coats of paint does a deck need?

Apply 1-3 coats of paint. Paint the floor of the deck a few boards at a time, making sure you have a clear path on and off the deck so you do not paint yourself into a corner. Applying 3 coats will ensure the paint is durable and make the paint easier to maintain.

How can I paint my deck fast?

The key to painting a deck quickly is to use a sprayer. Available for rent or purchase, the machine can be loaded with the deck paint of your choice, and it will quickly cover the entire deck.

What kind of roller do you use to paint a deck?

Polyethylene fibers and foam are the best material for roller covers. They absorb more stain and minimize splatter. 4-inch length roller covers work well on detailing and small areas. For larger areas, use the 9-inch roller to speed up the process.

Can you use a roller to paint decking?

Roller: The best tool for applying new paint is a paint roller. If it’s reachable, paint or seal all deck boards’ sides to protect the decking from moisture.

Should I sand my deck before painting?

The deck should be sanded after it is stripped and before a coat of stain or paint is applied. A solid stain or paint commonly lasts for five years and a transparent stain for one to two. If water doesn’t bead on the deck, then it is being absorbed. A sure sign it is time to sand and protect it again.

How long will paint last on a deck?

The pros of painting your deck include: It’s fairly easy to maintain. When you opt to paint your deck, you won’t have to refinish it anytime soon. A quality paint job, finished by a trusted professional, can last for ten years before needing repainting.

Can you paint a deck instead of stain?

Deck Painting Paint allows you more color options, as where stain is limited to shades of brown. Because paint fills gaps and cracks, it hides the flaws of a weathered or old deck much better than stain does. It’s easier to clean a painted deck rather than a stained one.

When should I paint my deck?

Consumer Reports notes the best time to paint or stain a deck is late spring when temperatures are between 60 and 85°F and the nights are cool. You’ll need four dry days for preparation, for application, and for a finish to completely dry.