Painting your deck

Should you need to replace part of the surface, be sure to use wood that is of the same quality as the wood used in the original construction. If replacements are not required, prepare the surface adequately before proceeding.
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Choosing the right protection
The right remover
Choosing the right paint
Warning
1. Remove the paint
2. Apply the paint

Choosing the right protection

The choice of a finish for your deck is an important part of the process. Choosing a paint, stain or sealer will determine both the type of protection and surface you will end up with.

Should you choose a stain or a sealer instead of a paint, please refer to Stain your deck or Seal your deck sections.

The right remover

You may choose from two types of paint removers:
  • Methyl chloride- or sodium hydroxide-based paint removers are quick: they work and dry in less than 15 minutes. They - and their fumes - are flammable and toxic.
  • Water-based removers are just as efficient, but slower.

    • Choosing the right paint

    Oil and latex paints seal wood by means of a surface film. Variations in temperature and humidity will, in time, make the paint peel. Regular applications of paint will slow down the peeling process but they require that you engage in a regular maintenance program. Paints hide stains and imperfections and results in a smooth, washable surface that may be slippery unless you mix nonskid compound into the paint.

    Oil and latex paints are equivalent in terms of resistance. Epoxy-based paint is known to be the most resistant for floors. It is an effective sealer that is often used on concrete floors in basements for example. Latex paint, on the other hand, is known to let wood breathe better.

    Warning

    The application of paint or stain should, ideally, be done in the shade or under a light sun, on a surface that has been completely dry for at least 48 hours. Plan to let dry for 12 to 24 hours after application.

    1. Remove the paint

    To prepare the surface, scrape, sand and remove the existing paint before applying a stain or a sealing preservative or a uniform coat of primer, followed by paint.

    1.1 

    Roughly scrape and sand the entire surface using an electric sander and 80- to 100-grit sandpaper. Clean the surface, apply the remover and strip the paint with a scraper.

    Complete paint removal with a heat gun -be careful not to burn the wood - or by applying an additional coat of remover.

    1.2 

    Finish preparation by sanding using an electric sander and 100- to 120-grit sandpaper.

    1.3 

    Clean the surface using a brush or broom to eliminate any trace of remover, dust and paint. You can also use a power washer, but you will need to allow 24 to 48 hours of drying time if you do so.

    2. Apply the paint

    Once all the surfaces of your deck are well prepared, clean and dry, you may proceed with the application of first the primer and then the paint you have carefully chosen.

    2.1 

    Apply an oil-base primer and let dry in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.

    2.2 

    Apply at least two coats of exterior floor paint.

    2.3 

    Some suggest a light sanding of the between coats.
    Once your deck is well protected with a coat of paint, not only will it be more inviting but, the summer sunshine will appear to be just a little bit brighter.
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