How to Repaint a Deck

Paint on a deck is not the most ideal finish, but if that's your objective - here's my opinion on all your options.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• electric sander, the bigger the better depending on area needing sanding.
• particle dust mask
• safety goggles
• sandpaper for the sander
• paint, or other finish
• a finish applier; (paintbrush) or foam-based applicator
• proper solvents for clean-up

1. Make sure all loose or disconnected parts that might be in need of repair are corrected. Scrape the surfaces to remove big splintering areas. If old paint is peeling remove with paint remover prior to scraping. Wait until the surface is dry to scrape. Once you've scraped and swept the dust and debris away, it's time to SAND. A rough sanding will bring all the relative surfaces to a similar plane, and more dusting and cleaning is needed. Allow to dry before proceeding.
2. Filling large cracks and 'holidays' (knots) will allow your new finish to last longer. After troweling in some wood filler where needed, SAND the entire area with a finer sandpaper. You're more than half-way! More cleaning of the dust and debris, allow to dry. Wipe areas down with a terry-cloth towel doused in mineral spirits to pick up most remaining dust. After the surface dries you are almost done! Plan these steps to occur when you can complete them within a short amount of time of each other, as you have now made the surface prime 'to be primed'.
3. As mentioned earlier I feel paint is not the best exterior finish for a deck. There are some newer products available that will offer good results, most are epoxy based or otherwise 'industrial' in spirit. My lean is to the classic boat deck sealant, good-ole spar varnish. Even if your deck has old remnants of old paint, the varnish will mellow it into the finished look, but most importantly, the wood will be treated appropriately for the exposure it's in. Varnish, like any protective finish, will need some re-applications as time rolls on. Plan for them and you won't have to go to all the sanding and prep, hopefully. Your diligence to keeping the surfaces clean will make a big difference in the service intervals. Conditions make a big impact as well. A deck in the sun has much different issues than one under a Pecan tree. Planning for these conditions is how you can create the best finish for awesome deck party soon to be enjoyed. Make sure it's as safe for the youngest guest as it is for the oldest. My decks are one of my most favorite areas of the entire house. Hope you are enjoying yours soon!

Tips & Warnings

• Be meticulous in cleaning the dust between sanding steps. It prolongs life.
• Choose the higher quality finish. You are working hard here, and deserve the best!
• Enjoy your deck with your neighbors. That's one great thing about decks, they offer an inviting place to get to know your neighbors.
• Safe handling of power tools demands care. Please be careful!
• Solvents and finishes are dangerous! Don't let kids be involved. Be safe!
• Read all labels - it will help you succeed and avoid possible injury.
• Hire a pro if you can't wear all the gear and do this work properly. It's almost more fun to watch!