
Refinishing a deck is a cost-effective way to give your deck a new lease of life. If your deck is covered in textured paint, you'll need to strip the paint before refinishing. First, scrape off as much loose paint as possible, then use a belt sander to sand the deck back to bare timber. Next, apply a deck stain stripper and let it sit for around 20 minutes. Once the deck is stripped, you can apply a restoration product. Make sure the wood is completely dry and mask off any surfaces you want to protect from the paint. Then, roll the product onto the deck and use a brush to fill in any gaps.
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What You'll Learn

Prepare the deck surface by removing furniture and power washing
To refinish a deck covered in textured paint, you must first prepare the deck surface by removing furniture and power washing. Start by clearing the deck of all outdoor furniture, toys, potted plants, grills, and other objects. It is important to also cover nearby plants or shrubs with plastic sheeting or tarps to protect them from splatters of cleaner or stain.
Next, you will want to inspect the deck, handrails, and steps for any damage. Replace any damaged or rotten boards, and ensure that no nails or screws are standing out above the surface. If there are splinters, give these areas special attention. If the grain runs out on the edge or face of a board, it can become a sharp protrusion that can cause injuries, so be sure to address these areas. If boards have bowed or cupped, pull out any nails, then replace them with deck screws. If a nail cannot be removed, drive a screw near it, and then use a hammer and nail set to drive the nail below the surface of the wood.
Now, you are ready to begin cleaning the deck surface. If there is old paint or finish that is peeling or chipped, use an orbital sander with 80-grit sandpaper to smooth these areas. If your deck is in really bad shape, you may want to rent an orbital floor sander to cover the entire surface more easily. If you have patio planters or furniture that have covered certain areas of the deck, be sure to sand these sun-shielded areas to rough up the surface. Once you have sanded the deck, dilute a deck cleaning product and apply it, letting it soak in for the recommended time. Then, scrub the entire deck with a stiff scrub brush and extension handle, paying extra attention to greasy areas.
Finally, power wash the deck to remove any remaining dirt and loose stain. Aim the nozzle into the board gaps to clean them out. If you are using a pressure washer, be sure to let the deck dry for a few days before proceeding with any staining or painting.
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Sand the deck to remove loose paint and splinters
Sanding is an important step in refinishing a deck, especially to remove loose paint and splinters. It helps to achieve a smooth and consistent finish, but it can also be a time-consuming and labour-intensive process. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:
Firstly, ensure you have the right tools and safety equipment. Sandpaper is available in various grits, with lower grit numbers (such as 40-80) being coarser and more suitable for removing paint and splinters. Finer grits (like 100-150) are used for smoothing the surface after the initial paint removal. Power sanders, such as orbital sanders, are efficient for large deck areas but require some skill to operate without damaging the wood. For smaller areas or detailed work, manual sanding tools like sanding blocks or hand-held sandpaper can be used. Always wear safety goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from dust and debris, and a dust mask or respirator to avoid inhaling harmful particles. Gloves are also recommended to protect your hands from splinters and abrasions.
Before you begin sanding, thoroughly clean the deck to remove dirt, debris, and loose paint. You can use a deck cleaner or a pressure washer set on a gentle setting for this step. If there are areas with old paint or finish that are peeling or chipped, focus on those areas first. Use a stiff bristle brush with a handle extension to reach all areas of the deck. You can also use a scraper to remove as much loose paint as possible before sanding. Ensure the deck is completely dry before proceeding to sanding.
When sanding, always go with the wood grain to achieve the best results. Start with the coarser grit sandpaper to remove the majority of the paint and splinters, then switch to a finer grit to smooth the surface. Pay special attention to corners, edges, and areas where deck boards may be separating, as these are more prone to splinters and damage. Inspect the deck for any damage caused or revealed during the sanding process, such as cracks or loose boards, and make necessary repairs.
Finally, after sanding, thoroughly sweep, blow, or vacuum the deck to remove any remaining dust. Leaving dust on the surface will affect the adhesion of the new finish. Allow the deck to dry for at least two days before proceeding with staining or painting.
Remember, refinishing a deck requires careful attention to safety and best practices. Always follow manufacturer instructions and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your surroundings.
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Apply a stain stripper and let it sit for 20 minutes
To refinish a deck covered in textured paint, you'll need to strip away the existing paint and prepare the surface for a new finish. Here's how you can do it:
- Choose a deck stain stripper suitable for removing the existing paint or finish. Ensure the product is designed for use on textured surfaces.
- Before applying the stripper, ensure your deck is clear of any furniture, toys, potted plants, grills, and other objects.
- Inspect the deck for any damaged or rotten boards and replace them. Also, address any protruding nails or screws, and consider covering nearby plants or shrubs with plastic sheeting or tarps to protect them from the stripping process.
- Apply a generous amount of the selected stain stripper to the surface of your deck. Make sure the deck is completely dry before applying the stripper.
- Keep the surface of the deck wet by spraying a light mist over it while the stripper is active. This will ensure the stripper remains effective and prevents it from drying out too quickly.
- During this process, be very careful when walking on the deck, as the stripper will make the surface extremely slippery.
- Allow the stain stripper to sit on the deck for around 20 minutes. After about 10 minutes, you'll notice the peeling deck stain starting to soften, indicating that the stripper is working.
Once the 20 minutes are up, you can proceed to the next step, which involves removing the softened paint and preparing the surface for a new finish. Remember to always follow the safety instructions and recommendations provided by the manufacturer of the stain stripper.
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Choose a suitable deck paint or stain and allow it to dry
When refinishing a deck covered in textured paint, choosing the right paint or stain and allowing it to dry properly are crucial steps. Here are some detailed instructions to help you through the process:
Choosing the Right Paint or Stain
Firstly, decide whether to use paint or stain on your deck. Paint sits on the surface of the wood, while stain absorbs into it. If you want to conceal damage or achieve a more uniform appearance, consider using opaque stains. If the wood has surface damage that can't be sanded away, a thick deck coating or paint might be the best option. Exterior finishes are designed to withstand weather conditions and sunlight.
Preparing the Surface
Before applying any product, ensure the deck is thoroughly cleaned and dried. Use a pressure washer or a hose with a power sprayer to remove dirt and loose paint. If there is old paint, finish, or stain on the deck, use a belt sander or orbital sander with 80-grit sandpaper to smooth out peeling or chipped areas. If the deck is in poor condition, consider renting an orbital floor sander for larger surfaces. After sanding, dilute a deck cleaning product and apply it, allowing it to soak in as instructed. Then, scrub the deck with a stiff brush and rinse it thoroughly.
Selecting the Colour
When choosing a colour for your deck, consider that deck restoration coatings absorb and retain more heat than plain wood. Light colours, such as light grey, are often recommended to avoid attracting excessive heat.
Applying the Paint or Stain
After preparing the surface, it's time to apply the paint or stain. If using paint, consider a product with a long-lasting, tintable acrylic base, UV inhibitors, and added solids for texture and strength. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for application, as procedures may vary. If using a stain, you may need to apply a stain stripper first and allow it to sit for around 20 minutes before proceeding.
Drying and Second Coat
Once you've applied the first coat of paint or stain, allow it to dry completely. The drying time may vary depending on the product, but it's essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations. For some products, a few days of drying time may be required before applying a second coat.
Remember, proper surface preparation, choosing suitable products, and allowing adequate drying time are key to successfully refinishing your deck.
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Apply a second coat for even coverage and a smooth finish
When refinishing a deck covered in textured paint, the application of a second coat is crucial for achieving even coverage and a smooth finish. Here are the detailed steps to follow for optimal results:
Firstly, it is essential to allow the first coat of paint or stain to dry completely. This can take varying amounts of time depending on the product used and environmental conditions. For example, some products recommend letting the first coat dry for at least three to six hours or until it feels dry to the touch. It is crucial to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific drying guidelines.
Once the first coat is completely dry, you can begin applying the second coat. Stir the contents of the paint can or stain container thoroughly, just as you would with regular paint. This ensures that the product is evenly mixed and ready for application. After stirring, pour the product into a roller pan or tray if you plan to use a roller for application.
For the application process, use a roller specifically designed for textured deck coatings, as recommended by the manufacturer. Load the roller fully with the product, and roll it out slowly and evenly in one direction, applying medium downward pressure. Focus on rolling the entire length of the deck boards, several rows at a time. This technique ensures consistent coverage and minimizes the appearance of roller marks.
If you encounter areas that require extra attention, such as knots, screw or nail holes, gouges, or cracks, use a brush to fill them in. Load the brush with the product and glide it over the coated boards in a single stroke. For hard-to-reach areas, such as corners or edges, use a paintbrush designed for cutting in, ensuring precise application without messy drips.
After completing the second coat application, allow it to dry thoroughly. Depending on the product and environmental conditions, this may take several hours or longer. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific drying guidelines. Once the second coat is dry, you will notice a significant improvement in the overall appearance of your deck. The second coat is often referred to as the magic coat, providing a smooth, uniform finish that fills in any remaining gaps or imperfections.
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