Easy Deck Repairs: Painting On A Budget

Painting a deck is a great way to freshen up your outdoor space and protect the wood from the elements. However, it can be a time-consuming and costly process. To fix your deck for painting on a budget, you'll need to strip and smooth the surface, fill any cracks or holes, and ensure it's clean and dry before painting. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started. Firstly, inspect the deck for any loose boards, protruding nails, or damaged areas. Fix loose boards, hammer down any nails, and replace severely damaged boards. Next, use a pressure washer to strip away old paint and a sander to smooth the surface. If you have a small deck, a manual sander may suffice, but for larger areas, consider renting a commercial sander to speed up the process. Once the deck is smooth, fill any cracks, knotholes, or splinters with exterior wood putty or a thick deck repair paint. Finally, ensure the deck is clean and dry before painting. Choose a dry, sunny day with low humidity for optimal painting conditions.

Inspect and prepare the deck surface

Inspecting and preparing your deck surface is crucial to ensure a smooth and durable paint job. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Inspect the Deck Surface:

• Check for any loose boards, protruding nails, chips, divots, cracks, or signs of rotting wood. Pay close attention to areas with extensive paint chipping or peeling, as they may indicate underlying issues like a leaking gutter or excessive sun exposure.
• If you notice any loose boards, use a hammer and nails to secure them in place. Level out any nails that are sticking up to prevent injuries and create a smooth surface.
• For small chips, divots, or cracks, use exterior wood putty to fill and smooth over the imperfections.
• If any boards are severely damaged or rotten, it's best to replace them entirely to maintain the integrity of your deck.

Prepare the Deck Surface:

• Choose an appropriate cleaning agent based on the condition of your deck. If there is no mould or mildew present, a simple cleaning solution will suffice.
• Dilute the deck cleaner according to the instructions and apply it to the deck surface. Allow it to soak for the recommended time to loosen any dirt, grease, or grime.
• Scrub the entire deck with a stiff-bristled brush and an extension handle to reach all areas. Ensure you pay extra attention to greasy spots and thoroughly scrub all areas to remove dirt and debris.
• If your deck has old paint that is flaking or peeling, consider using a pressure washer to remove it. A pressure washer can efficiently strip away old paint and prepare the surface for the new coat. However, exercise caution, as high-pressure water streams can damage wood that has been exposed to harsh weather conditions.
• If you opt for a pressure washer, ensure nearby plants and shrubs are covered with plastic sheeting or tarps to protect them from cleaner splatter.
• Once the deck is clean and dry, use sandpaper or a sanding block to smooth out any rough areas, including edges and spots where the old paint or sealant is peeling. If the deck has extensive paint peeling or rough patches, consider renting a power sander for a more efficient job.
• After sanding, remove any dust or debris with a brush or vacuum to ensure the surface is clean and ready for painting.

Remember, proper inspection and preparation of the deck surface are essential to ensure the new paint adheres correctly and lasts for years to come. Taking the time to thoroughly inspect, clean, and prepare your deck will result in a more durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Remove old paint

Removing old paint from your deck is a crucial step in preparing the surface for a new coat of paint or stain. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process of removing old paint from your deck on the cheap:

Prepare the Deck:

Start by removing all furniture, potted plants, and other objects from the deck. Then, carefully inspect the deck for any signs of rot, loose boards, protruding nails, or screws. Use a hammer to drive any nails or screws below the surface of the wood. Cover nearby plants or shrubs with plastic sheeting or tarps to protect them from paint strippers or cleaners.

Remove Loose Paint:

Use a hand scraper or putty knife to remove any flaking or peeling paint. This step ensures that the majority of loose paint is removed before applying any chemical strippers, reducing the amount of scraping required later.

Apply Paint Stripper:

Paint strippers are effective in removing stubborn paint. Look for water-soluble, eco-friendly formulations with low volatile organic compounds (VOC) and no unpleasant odors. Calculate the square footage of your deck to determine the amount of paint stripper needed. Apply the stripper according to the instructions, keeping the surface lightly misted to prevent it from drying out.

Power Wash or Pressure Wash:

Power washing or pressure washing is a popular method to remove paint from decks. It can be done with a rented or borrowed power washer or even a garden hose with a spray nozzle. However, be cautious as the high-pressure water can damage the wood, especially if it has been weathered. Always wear protective gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and a mask, when using a power washer.

Sanding:

Sanding is often necessary to smooth the surface after removing the paint. You can use a belt sander, palm sander, or orbital sander, depending on the size of the deck and the condition of the wood. Choose the appropriate grit level for the sanding, typically ranging from 40-150 grit. Remember to sand in the direction of the wood grain to achieve a smooth finish.

Clean and Neutralize:

After removing the paint, clean the deck with a biodegradable deck cleaner and a stiff bristle brush. Rinse the deck with clean water to remove any residue from the paint stripper. You can also use a cleaner brightener or neutralizer to ensure the surface is ready for the new coat of paint or stain. Allow the deck to dry completely, which may take a few days depending on the weather conditions.

Remember to work carefully and wear protective gear throughout the paint removal process to ensure your safety and minimize the impact on your surroundings.

Clean the deck

To fix your deck for painting on the cheap, cleaning is an essential first step. A clean deck will ensure that your new paint job adheres properly and can extend the life of your deck.

First, cover any nearby plants or shrubs with plastic sheeting or tarps to protect them from any cleaning products. You should also apply painter's tape to the side of your house where it meets the deck to protect the paint and trim work. If necessary, the house can be protected with plastic sheeting.

Next, select a cleaning agent that suits your needs. If you are dealing with mildew or mould, choose a product designed to remove these, such as BEHR PREMIUM® NO. 63 All-In-One Wood Cleaner. Alternatively, you can mix oxi-clean, a few drops of blue dawn dish soap, and hot water in a bucket.

Once you have your cleaning solution, scrub the deck with a stiff-bristled brush, using an extension handle if needed. Avoid using a metal bristle brush. Pay particular attention to areas with dirt, oil, or grease, and be sure to scrub along the direction of the wood grain. If your deck has old paint that is flaking or peeling, you can use a pressure washer to help remove it. However, be careful, as pressure washers can damage wood, especially if it has been exposed to harsh weather. If you opt for a pressure washer, choose a hot, arid day to allow the deck to dry thoroughly.

After scrubbing, wash the deck with a hose and sprayer or a pressure washer if you haven't already. If you are using a pressure washer, start in an inconspicuous area to practice and be sure to protect yourself with closed-toe shoes, long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, work gloves, safety glasses, and a mask.

Finally, let the deck dry completely. Depending on the weather, this may take a couple of days. Once the deck is clean and dry, it is ready for sanding and painting.

Sand the deck

Sanding a deck is a crucial step in achieving a well-prepped surface for painting. It helps create the ideal foundation for paint adhesion and ensures a longer-lasting finish. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process of sanding your deck:

Assess the Deck's Condition:

Before embarking on sanding, it's essential to evaluate the current condition of your deck. Consider the age of the deck and the extent of its exposure to the elements, and any structural concerns like railings, stairs, and posts. Determine the moisture levels using a moisture meter or by checking for signs of excessive dryness or moisture retention. Inspect for mildew and mould, addressing any fungal growth accordingly. Evaluate the type and condition of existing paint, stain, or sealant. Decide whether a light sanding will suffice or if more thorough sanding is required.

Choose the Right Tools:

Select the appropriate sanding tools for the job. For smaller areas or detailed work, you can use sandpaper or a sanding block to manually smooth rough edges and spots. For larger surfaces or extensive sanding, consider renting a power sander, such as a belt sander or orbital sander, from your local home improvement store. These tools are particularly useful for removing old paint or stain and smoothing the entire deck surface. Don't forget to wear the necessary safety gear, including a dust mask, safety goggles, closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves to protect yourself from dust and debris.

Prepare the Deck:

Before sanding, ensure the deck is clean and dry. Use a biodegradable deck cleaner to scrub the surface, removing any dirt, grime, or mildew. Pay attention to the direction of the wood grain when using a brush with stiff bristles and an extension handle if needed. Avoid metal bristles as they can damage the wood. Wash the deck with a hose and sprayer or consider using a pressure washer to remove old paint effectively. However, be cautious as pressure washers can damage wood that has been exposed to harsh weather. Allow the deck to dry completely before proceeding to sanding.

Now, you're ready to begin sanding! If using a power sander, move it along the direction of the wood grain to smooth out rough areas and remove any old gloss. For railings or balustrades, you may need to switch to a sanding sponge for more detailed work. If sanding by hand, use sandpaper or a sanding block, applying more pressure to rough spots and edges. Aim for a consistent finish across the entire deck surface. Depending on the desired smoothness, you can follow up with a finer grit sandpaper for a lighter pass to create an even smoother finish. Remember to pay attention to safety and wear the appropriate protective gear throughout the sanding process.

Post-Sanding Preparation:

Once you've finished sanding, it's essential to prepare the deck for the upcoming painting process. Remove any dust or debris generated during sanding by sweeping or vacuuming the deck surface. If there are any protruding nails, use a hammer to drive them below the surface of the wood. For loose nails, remove them and replace them with deck screws. If you encounter bowed or cupped boards, pull out the nails, and then secure the boards with screws. Ensure the deck is free of any obstacles that could interfere with the paint application.

Sanding your deck is a transformative process that lays the foundation for a beautiful and durable paint job. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to achieving a high-quality finish that will enhance the appearance and longevity of your outdoor space.

Paint or stain the deck

Painting or staining your deck will first require preparing the surface by sweeping it clear, scrubbing it with a store-bought or homemade deck cleaner, repairing or replacing damaged boards, and then lightly sanding any surface ridges.

Painting the Deck

If you opt for painting your deck, you will need to factor in the weather. If it rains in the middle of your painting project, you may have to deal with running paint, streaks, slow drying times, partial coverage, and an uneven finish once the paint dries. To avoid these issues, check the weather and plan to complete the job on a nice, sunny day with at least 24 hours without rain, giving the paint and primer enough time to dry. The best temperature for painting a deck ranges from about 50 to 90°F. Paint dries slowly in high humidity, too, so try to complete outdoor painting projects when the humidity is low to help speed up the drying time.

Before painting, the deck should be treated with wood preservative and then coated with a quality primer. A minimum of two coats of latex or oil-based paint is usually needed, and the thick consistency of paint means that globs and lap marks commonly crop up in the finish. Once painted, the surface must be sealed with a clear polyurethane sealer.

Staining the Deck

If you choose to stain your deck, you can directly apply it by brush or roller in a single coat. The rather runny consistency of the stain prevents globs from pooling, and its transparency minimizes the appearance of lap marks in the finish. When you choose a two-in-one stain-and-sealer, there’s no need for an additional clear top coat. Stain finishes on decks are more short-lived, lasting from one to eight years before requiring re-application.

Paint vs Stain

Much of the decision between deck paint or stain comes down to personal preference, the final look you desire, and the amount of protection and coverage needed. Paint is available in a host of hues, from neutrals like chocolate brown or forest green to eye-popping royal blue or crimson for a more contemporary vibe. Stain is typically thought of as being wood-toned, but stains can also range in colours from yellows to greens to blues. Wood stain is transparent to semi-solid in opacity, partially filling the pores of the wood, forming a thin film over the deck that lets both the natural grain pattern and superficial cracks in the wood show through—ideal if you like a natural look. Paint, on the other hand, fully fills the pores of the wood and dries to an opaque surface that hides cracks and covers the distinct wood grain, resulting in a more refined, though more manufactured, look.

In terms of durability, paint generally comes out as the more durable and colourfast finish, lasting 10 years or longer before requiring re-application. Oil-based paints offer the best protection from moisture, whereas latex paints provide the best defence against UV-related fading. Stain finishes are more prone to heat-related discolouration.

Frequently asked questions