How to Paint and Restore an Old Deck?

Do you want to know how to restore an old deck paint?

Keeping the old deck in its original shape is important because with time they get faded and sometimes cracked too.

If you are also dealing with the same issues and your deck boards are no longer in their original form then this guide is for you. In this guide, I will explain a few easy-to-follow methods used for this purpose.

Moreover, we will share the tools and materials required for this purpose and the tips that will help you keep your decks in their best shape.

 

Tools and Materials for Deck Restoration

In order to begin the process, you must have all the required tools and materials needed in this regard. These items are easily available from your nearby stores and a few are also present in homes.

• Paintbrush
• Paint tray
• Acrylic caulk
• Safety glasses
• Paint stir sticks
• Desk cleaner
• Plastic sheeting
• Masking tape

While doing the work do not forget to wear safety glasses and gloves in order to fully protect yourself from dust.

Best Method to Restore Deck Paint

By following the below-mentioned steps you can do this DIY work without any hassle.

Though you can also hire a professional but in this way you can save a lot on the work that can be easily done at home with the right products. Here we go.

Step 1. Prepare the Surface

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Ensure that before starting restoring the decks, your house is fully protected. To protect the sidings and rails, you can use masking tape and poly sheeting with which you can cover them.

If there are any large spells on the deck board then start this process by breaking them. Once it is done, it is time to reset the nail heads. However, you can also replace these nail heads with deck screws.

If you have ever used any solid stain on the deck and later covered them with any furniture then you need to sand these areas as well.

For sanding purposes, you can get your hands on 80-grit sandpaper that will let you eliminate all the rough surfaces on the deck board.

Step 2. Prepare the Cleaning Product

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Now it’s time to mix the deck cleaning product that you consider using according to the deck material. Apply the product and let it dry according to the recommended time.

You can check the dry timing of the product mentioned on the bottle. Now take the stiff scrub brush and start scrubbing the entire surface of the deck along with the handles.

Make sure not a single spot is left unscrubbed.

If there is any greasy area then it needs your more attention because it is important to wipe off all the grease from the surface.

Once all the cleaning is done, you have to power wash the entire deck in order to eliminate extra grime and dust from the surface.

Every corner and handle must be fully cleaned. Now, wait for at least 1 week until you apply the restoration product.

Step 3. Begin with the First Coat

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Apply the first coat on splinters, knotholes, and all the cracks on the deck. You can use the restoration product or a latex caulk for this purpose as both are effective.

Now, wait for some time until the coat becomes stiff. Get your hands on a special roller with which put in the deck coating. If you want a perfect and smooth coating then reload it every few feet.

Make sure no air bubbles are formed while applying the coat and it should be thick and smooth only then you will able to enjoy a good texture.

The thin coat will start tearing after a few days. Once the coating is done, level it with a brush for a smooth and perfect texture.

Step 4. Let It Dry

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Once the first coat is done, do not begin with the second coat once the first one is fully dried. It might take 6 or 8 hours to fully dry up however, it also depends on the weather condition.

You might dislike the results of the first coat but don’t worry and wait until all the coats are done. The second coat is said to be the magic coat after which you will clearly get to see the results.

Step 5. Apply the Second Coat

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Now begin with the second coat which is done by following the same method. Once the coat is done, wait for at least 2 days so that it is fully dried up. After 2 days, you can walk over the surface.

If you want long-lasting results then I would suggest you apply this method in the spring and fall seasons according to instructions given by the manufacturer.

Tips to Maintain Decks

There are a few tips that will help you in keeping the decks in their original form. The tips include:

• Do not forget to clean the deck surface regularly so that no dust and spills form there. Moreover, always get your hands on the right kind of cleaner.
• Always follow the instruction that is given by the manufacturer for effective results.
• Put the weight on the deck as much as it can bear. otherwise, cracks will tend to appear.
• Maintain the deck by using a stain that is of high quality.
• Keep checking whether your deck needs a minor repair or not so that the issue does not become big.
• These are a few simple tips that will help you keep the decks in the original shape even after several years of use.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few mostly asked questions regarding painting a deck or the best deck paint for old wood. The queries about the methods to paint and restore an old deck include:

How Long Does Restore Deck Paint Last?

If you properly apply the coats then they can clearly last for at least 13 years. You need to follow the right procedure and accompany the instructions given by the manufacturer for great results.

Moreover, it is better to level the paint with a brush for great texture.

What Is the Best Deck Paint for Old Decks?

There is a long list of paints for this purpose including Montage Signature Interior/Exterior Paint, Rust-Oleum 206999 Marine Topside Paint, KILZ L573611 Latex Floor Paint, etc. You can get other options as well.

Which Deck Resurfacer Is Best?

If you want to get your hands on the best resurfacer for refinishing then go for Olympic Rescue It 3 gal.

The other options include Cabot DeckCorrect New Cedar, LR Liquid Rubber Smooth Polyurethane Deck, INSL-X SU092209A-01 Sure Step Acrylic Anti-Slip, etc.

How Do I Restore an Old Painted Deck?

Deck restoration can be done easily with the right kind of cleaner. However, getting your hands on the cleaner is not enough as you should also know how to apply it in the right way.

The application method mentioned above will help you to get the best results.

Is Deck Restore a Good Product?

Yes, with the restoration, you can clearly get the deck in its original shape and form. You can also ask a professional for this purpose if you can not perform this process in the right way.

Ensure that not a single spot is left untreated otherwise, it will not look good.

Final Thoughts

After reading this guide you will be able to paint and restore an old deck easily at home without any assistance.

I have made sure to keep the process simple and straightforward so that you find it difficult. However, with regular cleaning and maintenance, you can save yourself from this mess.

Never use low-quality paint on the deck because it will harm the texture and material of the deck.

Gathering all the tools and equipment at the start will help you finish the work quickly. Moreover, by following the tips mentioned above you can also keep the decks for the longest time.

You can find different cleaners in the market and also ask for recommendations. I hope this article will accommodate you to paint and restore your decks easily without any hassle.