What you need to know about deck painting

After the effort and expense of constructing a deck, you’ll want it to last in top condition for as long as possible. Painting or staining your deck can help to ensure its longevity by protecting it from the elements and enhancing its natural colour. Whether you’re installing a brand new deck or your existing decking has seen better days, a coat of paint can do wonders. Here’s what you need to know about deck painting to ensure a job well done.

Painting vs Staining
You have two options when it comes to creating a flawless decking surface: stain or paint. Each option has its own pros and cons. Staining will enhance the elegance and richness of the wood grain, but it will take more work to maintain as it will need to be re-stained regularly. Painting is the quicker option and the finish will last far longer, though you will lose the natural beauty of the grain. Painted decks and rails are also prone to cracking, bubbling, and splitting and not all decks are suitable for painting. Speak with a decking expert first to get advice on which option is best.

Prepare, Clean & Dry
Paying close attention to the finer details makes a significant difference when it comes to creating a perfect finish. Always begin your project with a clean and dry surface, to ensure a polished finish with fewer problems along the way. Start by removing any old paint and sand the surface. Then, it’s time to clean. You may need to use a pressure cleaner and a hard brush or broom to thoroughly remove all dirt and grime. Ensure that the decking is completely dry before moving on to priming the surface. Choose the highest quality primer you can and make sure it’s oil-based so the paint will adhere.

Time for Coating
With your surface prepped (and wearing your protective gear) it’s now time to paint! It’s important to choose a paint that’s been purpose-made to withstand extreme temperatures and regular outdoor use. To apply the paint or stain, you can either use a paint roller to cover vast areas and then fill in any gaps and cracks with a paintbrush. Or, you can use a spray gun to quickly cover the entire area. Wait for each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. Of course, you could always hire a professional painter to do the job for you and save yourself the time and hassle.

If you want a professional coating for your deck, speak to the team at APMG Painting Melbourne. Whether you’re looking for a stunning finish for a newly installed deck, or to bring an older deck back to life, we have the skills and experience to help.