I have a deck that was previously painted a bright red, which really clashes with my gray siding. I'd like to repaint it to something nicer. The deck measures roughly 16x30 feet. Is this a DIY project that's manageable for a beginner like me? What steps should I take to prep it? I've already done some touch-ups on the cracks and chipped paint, but most of the old paint is quite thick, making it hard for water to escape between the boards since they are almost stuck together. I considered replacing the boards with Trex, but that's not really in my budget right now, and it seems like a complicated project.
5 Answers
If the wood is still solid, consider renting a deck sander instead of pressure washing. It’ll do a better job of removing thick paint without risking damage. After that, instead of paint, think about using a solid stain that gives the look of paint but is much easier to maintain. Just keep in mind, if you do decide to swap the boards for Trex, you might need to modify the foundation first since it requires more support. I went through a similar process, and once I started, I found the underlying structure was rotting—definitely a stressful situation!
Great time of year to start this project! Just make sure to enjoy the sunny weather while you paint—it's all about the experience, right? ? But really, if you get halfway through and realize you’re in over your head, hiring someone can save you so much stress. Just a tip: if you mention Trex when getting estimates, they might bump up the price by 20% since it’s a brand name. Totally heard that from a friend, though!
Prepping the deck is key to a successful paint job! Start with a power washer to clean it, then get in there and scrape off any loose paint. After that, sand it down—start with a coarse sandpaper and finish with a fine one. If you need to get between the boards, a circular saw can help clear things out. Just a heads-up though, replacing the wood could be cheaper and easier in the long run. If you really don’t want to deal with all that, you could use a sprayer and apply opaque deck paint for a quick fix!
Totally agree, but just be careful with that pressure washer! Too much pressure or getting too close could do real damage to the wood.
Make sure to start with a mildew killer before pressure washing to really get rid of all the grime. Use a belt sander afterward to make it smooth. Then just paint it and seal it when it’s dry. You should aim for a couple of sunny days in a row for the best results!
Honestly, painting a deck is never a long-term solution. It usually flakes off in just a few years. You’d be much better off using a transparent or semi-transparent oil stain since it penetrates well and requires minimal upkeep. Given the existing paint, removing it is crucial but tough work. I had to completely replace my board after going through the same thing because I regretted not just upgrading the wood from the start! Good luck!
But how do you justify replacing 480 sqft of boards? That seems like it would cost a fortune! Plus, I still have to deal with painting the stairs and railings.