Millions of home owners across the United States begin their summer by applying a fresh new coat to their deck. This signifies that the outdoor space is open and ready to be enjoyed. Applying a fresh coat of paint is a great way to protect the deck year round. In order to complete this simple task, you will need tools such as a roller, brushes, painter’s tape, specialized paint for decks, a paint sprayer, and a deck sealant. IF the existing paint on the deck is chipping away, it is best to use a paint thinner and scraper to remove the old paint.
Removing the existing chipping paint will ensure a nice clean, flat surface when the deck is finished. Before you begin painting, check the weather forecast to make sure it will not rain for the next two days.
When preparing to paint your deck, the first step is to select the paint that is right for your deck. Several companies already make paint specifically for decks and patios. Deck paints contain special ingredients that aim to keep water from penetrating the surface. Some companies even offer a non-slip compound in their paint. This is especially good for decking around pool areas, and decks in areas that tend to see a lot of rain. Find a color that compliments your home in a positive way. You should consider purchasing a sealant finish cover at this point also, which will save you another trip to the hardware store in the future. Brushes, rollers, and other tools you will need should be purchased now as well.
Preparing the surface to be painted is one of the most important steps in the process. Preparing the surface involves removing any old chips or build ups that exist from the last coat of paint. This step is crucial to ensure that the paint you apply will look even and flat. Painting over a pour or cracked surface can also heighten the possibility of water damage in your new coat of paint. After the old paint chips have been removed, sweep the surface thoroughly to prevent the old chips from contaminating the new paint.
Use painters tape to tape around the deck, so you do not get paint on the house. Using either a paint roller or a paint sprayer, apply the paint evenly. It is very important to follow the wood grain and never apply paint against the grain. Even if you can not see the grain after the deck is painted, applying the paint with the grain will allow the paint to penetrate into the surface. It is best to apply one to two coats of the paint. The first layer should dry completely before the second layer is applied. Use a small hand brush to fill in any cracks or unpainted area on the deck.
After the paint is dry, it is now time to apply the sealant. Paint sealant should not be applied during times of extreme sunlight. Sunlight can dry a sealant, leaving you with an unattractive surface as well as an unprotected surface. Applying the sealant can be done in the same way as applying the deck paint. Using a roller with a nap of ¼” or less, gently roll on the sealant in the same direction as the paint was applied. Be sure to use a brush to access any missed area, and fully cover the deck with a sealant. After the sealant is applied, do not allow anyone to walk on the deck for a minimum of two hours. If it is possible, try to keep everyone off the deck for twenty four hours, as more time will provide a better finished product. Wait at least twenty four hours before you place any deck furniture onto the surface. Deck furniture tends to be heavy, which can cause denting in the surface if it has not fully dried.
After waiting twenty four hours, you can no enjoy your deck to the fullest! If you properly maintain the deck surface, you will not need to repaint and seal the surface for at least another year. Be sure to fix any small problem before it turns into a larger problem.
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