Make Your Old Deck Look New Again
Is your deck showing signs of age and wear, with peeling and chipped paint marring its appearance? If you’re thinking about giving your deck a fresh lease of life with a new coat of paint, it’s crucial to ensure proper preparation for the best results. This guide will walk you through the steps required to prepare your old deck and provide insights into selecting the ideal deck paint.
Step 1: Removing Old Deck Paint
Revitalizing your deck isn’t as simple as applying a fresh coat of paint. Before you reach for that paint can, here are essential steps to ensure your old deck looks rejuvenated:
Clean the deck thoroughly using a deck cleaner and a stiff broom. This step removes dirt, debris, mold, mildew, and some loose paint. Depending on the type of cleaner used, you may need a neutralizer.
Scrape the deck material with a soft bristle brush and a paint scraper to remove old paint, ensuring the new paint adheres evenly without chipping or bubbling.
Lightly sand any remaining loose paint or rough areas to create a smooth surface, making it easier to paint and providing effective wood protection.
For more information on addressing peeling paint on a deck, refer to our article: “What to Do If Paint is Peeling Off a Deck?”
Step 2: Choosing the Right Deck Paint
Now that your deck is prepped and ready for painting, selecting the right product is crucial. Old decks require extra care due to the natural wear and tear from exposure to the elements and daily use. Here’s what to consider when choosing deck paint:
Opacity
Opacity determines how much of the wood grain is visible through the paint.
Higher opacity conceals more wood grain, making it suitable for older decks with wear and tear.
Durability
The paint’s durability is paramount, especially for an old deck subjected to weather, foot traffic, and daily use.
Opt for a durable paint that provides long-lasting protection for your deck.
Texture
Choose the right texture based on the surface area. Use a non-slip additive for vertical sections to prevent slipperiness.
Opt for a texture that balances grip and smoothness for horizontal surfaces, ensuring safety without sacrificing comfort.
By following these steps and considering the important factors when choosing deck paint, you can breathe new life into your old deck, extending its lifespan and providing a beautiful and safe outdoor space for years to come.
Reviving your aging deck with a fresh coat of paint can work wonders, transforming it into a like-new space. While it might be tempting to take shortcuts given a deck’s exposure to natural wear and tear, investing time and effort into proper preparation before painting will ultimately yield satisfying and long-lasting results.
Contact us for deck painting services.