Can You Paint a Deck That's Already Been Stained?

Can You Paint a Deck That’s Already Been Stained?

Are you considering painting your discolored deck? Fortunately, a stained deck can be painted over. But applying a new color isn’t as easy as it seems; careful application, the right paint, and preparation are crucial. Painting is a fantastic choice if your deck is in good shape, meaning it is free of rot, large cracks, or loose boards. If you want to conceal an old, weathered stain with a solid color finish, it works particularly well. Just be aware that you’re committing once you paint over a stain. It will take a lot more work to go back to a transparent stain later because paint leaves a film on the wood.

How to Prep a Stained Deck for Painting

Preparation is important when painting a stained deck. Start by giving your deck a good cleaning. To make the process faster, use a pressure washer set to low PSI, if the pressure is too high you could damage the wood. Solutions like an oxygen-based bleach or deck cleaners are also effective. After your deck is clean and dry, the next step is sanding. Use sandpaper with a grain size of 60 to 80 for most surfaces. Don’t skip the sanding step; it improves paint adhesion and prepares the surface for a new coat of paint.

Make sure to check for any rotted areas, cracks, or loose nails. Replace any damaged boards and use an exterior wood filler made specifically for decks to seal any small cracks or holes.

If you’re in the New Hope area, consider deck installation in New Hope as an alternative if your deck is beyond repair.

Choosing the Right Paint for Your Deck

Select high-quality deck paint for a deck that will last. Acrylic latex paints are a common choice due to their flexibility, ability to dry fast, and easy cleanup. Another option are porch and floor paints, which are designed for high-traffic areas. Oil-based paints are known for their strength and penetration, but they also smell stronger and take longer to dry. Using a paint designed for outdoor surfaces is essential for decks that are exposed to high levels of foot traffic and weather. If you have a pool decking project in Montgomery County, PA, the same principles apply when selecting paint for moisture-heavy areas.

How to Paint Your Deck

Start with a high-quality primer after finishing the prep and getting your paint ready, particularly if you’re covering an old stain. Priming creates a more even finish, prevents discoloration, and helps the paint adhere. When painting, use a roller for flat surfaces and a brush for edges and intricate areas. Work with the wood’s grain to apply even, thin coats. For a sturdy, uniform finish, most decks require two coats. Before applying the second coat, let the first one completely dry. Avoid painting in direct sunlight or right before rain, and paint in mild weather (ideally between 50 and 90°F) for the best results.

Maintaining a Painted Deck

A newly painted deck can look great, but regular maintenance is necessary. At least once a year, clean your deck with a mild soap solution. Look for chips or scratches and fix them immediately to prevent water damage. Depending on the paint and exposure, plan to repaint your deck every two to five years to keep it looking great and weatherproof. Your deck can continue to look beautiful for many years with the correct preparation, painting, and maintenance. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help transform your deck. 

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