Leo Martínez
Refinishing a painted deck can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be a rewarding experience. The process involves several steps, from inspecting and repairing the deck to sanding, cleaning, and finally, applying a new coat of paint or stain. The first step is to inspect the deck for any damage, such as rotten or warped boards, which need to be replaced. Then, it's important to thoroughly clean the deck to remove any dirt, paint flakes, or contaminants. Power washing or pressure washing can be an effective way to strip old paint, but it must be done with caution to avoid damaging the wood. After cleaning, the deck should be sanded to smoothen the surface and improve paint adhesion. Once the deck is clean and sanded, it's ready for a new coat of paint or stain, carefully applied with a brush or roller. The refinishing process requires patience and attention to detail, but it can give your deck a fresh, new look and protect it from the elements.
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What You'll Learn
Clean the deck with a biodegradable cleaner and a stiff-bristle brush
To refinish a deck that has been painted, it is important to start with a clean deck. This will ensure that the new finish will adhere to the deck. Begin by clearing the deck of all outdoor furniture, toys, potted plants, grills, and other objects.
Next, select a biodegradable deck cleaner. You can use a commercial cleaner or make your own. To make a homemade deck cleaner, mix OxiClean powder with warm water to form a paste. Apply this paste to any stubborn stains using a small bristle brush and let it sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing. To keep mildew at bay, add Borax to your homemade cleaner. Borax is a natural mineral compound that won't damage nearby landscaping.
Once you have your cleaner, apply it liberally to the deck surface, starting at one end and working your way towards the house entrance or deck stairs. Use a stiff-bristle brush to scrub the cleaner into the deck, working in the direction of the grain and creating a light lather. Rewet the brush as needed. Allow the cleaner to soak for about 15 minutes.
After the cleaner has had time to work, rinse the deck thoroughly with a garden hose or a pressure washer. If using a pressure washer, be careful not to damage the wood. Start at low pressure with a wide fan nozzle.
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Sand the deck to smoothen the surface and remove old paint
Sanding is an important step in refinishing a deck that has been painted. It helps to smoothen the surface and remove old paint, preparing it for staining or a new coat of paint. Before you begin sanding, ensure that the deck is clear of any furniture, toys, potted plants, grills, and other objects.
There are several tools you can use for sanding. A large drum sander is often recommended for efficiency and effectiveness, and these can be rented from hardware stores. When using a drum sander, run it over the deck parallel to the boards, not perpendicular. You can also use a palm sander or a hand sander for curved edges and hard-to-reach areas. If you plan to reuse painted spindles, a grinder may work better than an orbital or belt sander. Additionally, consider using sandpaper with grits ranging from 60 to 80 for a smoother finish and to remove any dark spots.
Before sanding, ensure that all nails or screws are sunk below the level of the boards. Recess any nail or screw heads below the surface of the wood. Replace any that are showing signs of rust. If you're using a drum sander, you may need to purchase sanding belts or discs with grits ranging from 34 to 80.
Sanding can be a tedious and time-consuming process, especially when dealing with painted deck boards. It may be necessary to use other methods in conjunction with sanding, such as chemical strippers or pressure washers, to effectively remove all the paint. However, be cautious when using a pressure washer, as it can easily damage the wood, causing splintering and gouging.
Always wear a mask when sanding to protect yourself from inhaling dust and debris.
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Repair or replace damaged, rotten, or warped boards
Repairing or replacing damaged, rotten, or warped boards is an essential step in refinishing a deck. Here's a detailed guide to help you through the process:
Inspect the Deck
Before beginning any repairs or replacements, it's crucial to thoroughly inspect the deck to identify problem areas. Look for damaged, rotten, or warped boards, as well as any screws or nails that are standing out above the surface. Pay close attention to the ends of the boards, as these areas are more susceptible to water damage and rot. Test for rot by poking the board with a screwdriver; if the tip goes in easily, the board is likely rotten.
Remove Nails or Screws
If you find damaged boards that need to be replaced, start by removing any nails or screws securing the affected sections. Use tools such as a pry bar, screwdriver, nail puller, or a drill with a screw extractor bit. If the fasteners are stubborn and won't come out, you may need to chop the board into smaller pieces with a chisel or saw and then pry up the slivers.
Replace Rotten or Damaged Boards
Once the fasteners are removed, take out the damaged or rotten boards. Be cautious not to damage the surrounding boards that are still in good condition. After removing the affected boards, inspect the joists underneath for any signs of rot or damage. Treat and protect exposed portions of the joists with a clear sealer.
Install Reinforcing Joists
If the joists below the damaged boards are affected by rot or decay, you may need to reinforce or replace them. Add a reinforcing joist from pressure-treated lumber, positioning it tightly against the damaged joist and securing it with nails or screws. If the entire joist needs to be replaced, ensure you provide support to the surrounding framework before removing it.
Select Replacement Boards
When choosing replacement boards, try to match the existing type of lumber used in your deck. Look for long and straight boards, avoiding those with highly visible warpage. If possible, identify the species of wood currently used on your deck by taking photos of the close-up sections and sharing them with your decking supplier. They can help ensure you select replacement boards of the same species.
Install the Replacement Boards
When installing the new boards, ensure the spacing between them matches that of the existing decking. Use deck screws or nails specifically designed for pressure-treated lumber. Stagger the joints in decking boards from row to row to create a natural look. If you're replacing multiple boards, it's recommended that the replacement section spans at least two joist spaces for better support.
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Apply a new coat of paint or stain using a paintbrush or roller
Once you've cleaned, scraped, and sanded your deck, it's time to apply a new coat of paint or stain using a paintbrush or roller. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Prepare the Deck for Painting or Staining:
Before you begin, ensure the deck is completely dry after cleaning and sanding. If you've used a chemical stripper, follow the instructions and mist the deck with water to prevent premature drying. Check the weather and ensure you have a few dry days ahead for the paint or stain to dry properly. Cover nearby surfaces and mask off the house with tape and plastic to protect them from accidental splatters.
Choose the Right Paint or Stain:
Select a paint or stain that is suitable for exterior use and will stand up to weather conditions and sunlight. If you're using a transparent or semi-transparent coating to maintain the natural appearance of the wood, look for one that provides protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Apply the First Coat:
Use a paintbrush or roller to apply the first coat of paint or stain. When using a paintbrush, work with the grain of the wood, using long strokes with an even coating. Start at a far corner and work your way across in parallel with the deck boards. For best results, work in sections of 50 sq ft or less, and brush in drips and small spills as you go. If using a roller, roll the entire length of the deck boards, a few rows at a time.
Address Problem Areas:
Pay special attention to knots, screw or nail holes, gouges, and cracks. Load up a brush and drip it into these areas to fill any gaps and ensure a smooth finish.
Allow the First Coat to Dry:
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times. Typically, you'll need to let the first coat dry for at least three to six hours, or until it's dry to the touch. Avoid walking on the deck or placing furniture on it for a few days to prevent damaging the colour or finish.
Apply the Second Coat:
Once the first coat is dry, apply a second coat to prevent fading and ensure a high-quality finish. Start with the railings and posts, using a paintbrush to catch any drips, and then move on to the rest of the deck.
Remember to always follow safety precautions when working with paints and stains, and refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific guidelines related to the product you're using.
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Allow the deck to dry for a few days before use
Refinishing a deck is a rewarding project, but it can be exhausting. The process involves several steps, and it is important to allow the deck to dry for a few days before use. This waiting period is crucial to ensure the new paint or stain is given adequate time to dry and cure properly.
After cleaning and preparing the deck surface, whether by power washing, sanding, or applying a chemical stripper, the next step is to apply a new coat of paint or stain. This can be done using a paintbrush, roller, or sprayer. Regardless of the application method, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time. Some products may require up to three to six hours to dry to the touch, while others may need a longer period.
During the drying process, it is important to keep people and furniture off the deck. Walking on the deck or placing furniture on it too soon can cause permanent damage to the colour and finish. It is recommended to wait for at least a few days, if not longer, to allow the new coating to cure fully. This duration may vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the type of paint or stain used.
Additionally, it is worth considering adding floor protectors to the bottom of furniture pieces. This simple step can help prolong the life of your refinished deck and maintain its pristine condition. Taking these extra days to allow for proper drying and curing will ensure that your hard work pays off and that your deck looks its best for years to come.
Finally, while refinishing a deck can be a DIY project, it is important to recognise when professional guidance or assistance may be beneficial. If you are unsure about any aspect of the process, consider consulting a professional deck restoration company or contractor. They can provide expert advice and ensure that your deck is properly refinished.
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Frequently asked questions
First, check for any damage, such as rotten or warped boards, and replace them. Next, remove the old finish. You can do this by scraping, sanding, or using a chemical stripper. Then, clean the deck with a biodegradable cleaner and scrub it with a stiff-bristled brush. After that, you can apply a new coat of paint or stain using a paintbrush or roller.
You will need a range of tools and materials, including a power sander, pressure washer, paint roller with a long handle, paint tray, sandpaper, and a cleaner/brightener. You may also need a chemical stripper and a new coat of paint or stain.
The cost of refinishing a deck depends on its size and the extent of the deterioration. The choice of material, such as pressure-treated lumber, cedar, or composites, will also affect the cost. On average, the materials for a DIY job can cost between $0.50 and $0.65 per square foot.
