If you really want to play it safe, remove the old deck first. Then you can do the painting without any obstructions up against the walls. Afterwards, build your new deck.

When should I replace my deck?

5 Signs That its Time to Replace or Repair Your Deck

  • Obvious damage to the wood. Wood can become damaged from the elements, from insects, and from use over the years. …
  • Rot in the wood. …
  • Rusted fixtures and fittings. …
  • Loose railings. …
  • Molds and mildews.





Is it better to paint or stain an old deck?

A quality paint job can last for up to 10 years when it’s done right. Paint allows you more color options, as where stain is limited to shades of brown. Because paint fills gaps and cracks, it hides the flaws of a weathered or old deck much better than stain does.

Can you paint a deck with exterior paint?

You can use oil or latex paint for exterior decks. Oil-based paints typically last longer and provide better protection against moisture, but they’re very shiny and don’t withstand high heat over time. Latex paints aren’t as tough, but they hold up better in regions with high temperatures.

Should you paint the underside of a deck?

The underside is important because the water on your deck will dry on the top and run and hang onto the bottom. Expect to have to repaint the bottom faster than the top.

What to Know Before replacing a deck?





Here are some things that may indicate it’s time to repair or replace your deck:

  1. Rotted wood. If you notice a soft spot on your deck, that’s a good indicator the wood beneath has rotted. …
  2. Loose floorboards. It’s common for floorboards to crack due to weather. …
  3. Wobbly railings. …
  4. Deteriorated posts. …
  5. Insect damage.


What is the average lifespan of a deck?

Traditional wood deck: Typically 10 to 15 years. Capped composite: Industry experts agree these boards can last 25 to 30+ years. Capped polymer (the best of the best): Because of its superior material composition, capped polymer boards can last much longer, potentially 50 years or more.

Why You Should Never paint a deck?

To get the most out of a wood deck it needs to be protected from the environment and harsh weather conditions. Harmful UV rays and moisture can lessen the longevity of a wood deck in no time.

Is it cheaper to paint or stain a deck?



Stain is more budget-friendly.



Stain runs between $20 and $35 per gallon, while exterior paint suitable for decking ranges from $30 to as much as $60 per gallon. Plus, if painting, you’ll have to factor in an extra $15 to $40 per gallon of wood preservative and $15 to $30 per gallon of primer.

What lasts longer solid stain or paint?

Paint Lasts Longer than Stain:



Another notable difference between solid color stain and paint is that paint will last longer than stain. However, stain could also be a good choice for the homeowners since it protects wood better by allowing the moisture to escape from the wood.

How much does it cost to paint a deck?

The cost to paint a deck ranges from $600 to $1,500 or about $2 to $5 per square foot. Painting a 300 square foot surface is $1,050 on average, but many factors can increase the price. The labor rate, material condition, and paint quality, for example, can all drive up the total.

Do deck joists need to be painted?



Coat the joists with a moisture-resistant stain or sealer before you install them to provide an extra level of protection, advises Flooring and Carpets. Paint all the surfaces and edges with a paintbrush, making sure you provide a generous coating on the ends.

Do I need to seal under my deck?

It is not necessary to stain the underside of your deck for protection from the elements, especially if you use pressure-treated wood, which helps keep wood-boring insects out.

How long does it take to replace a deck?

Especially if it’s of average size, between 300 to 400 square feet. For custom jobs that require more ornate installations and extra manpower, it could take up to 3 or 4 weeks to fully finish. Keep in mind, the more manpower you have, the less time it will take overall.

Should I replace my deck before selling?

Replacing or updating your deck before listing your home for sale makes a better impression on buyers—and adds to its value. Think of a deck as an extension of your home. Potential buyers want to picture themselves enjoying summer evenings with friends and family, sipping coffee and even working in the outdoor space.

How do you modernize a deck?



Everything in This Slideshow

  1. 1 of 17. Install a Pergola. …
  2. 2 of 17. Restain Your Deck. …
  3. 3 of 17. Add an Outdoor Bar. …
  4. 4 of 17. Lay Down a Rug. …
  5. 5 of 17. Pile On Outdoor Pillows. …
  6. 6 of 17. Add Colorful Accents. …
  7. 7 of 17. Use Containers for Color and Height. …
  8. 8 of 17. Incorporate Stylish Deck Furniture.

How can I redo my deck cheap?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Using a 3/8 inch nap roller saturate. The roller cover and apply generously in a consistent pattern. Work to a wet edge at all times. Wait two hours for the primer to dry. Now.

How do you spruce up a deck on a budget?

10 Ways to Dress Up Your Deck for $100 or Less

  1. Make Over Your Deck on a Budget. 1/12. …
  2. Solar-Powered LED Lantern. 2/12. …
  3. Raised Wicker Garden Bed. 3/12. …
  4. Slatted Metal Bench. 4/12. …
  5. A Colorful Area Rug. 5/12. …
  6. Deep-Seat Cushion Set. 6/12. …
  7. A Striped Pouf. 7/12. …
  8. Lantern-Style Porch Lights. 8/12.

How do you update an old wood deck?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: So we can start our cleanup process going to be using a product called restore a deck. We're gonna have a stripper to pull off all the old stain.

How do you prepare an old deck for painting?



Using a stain and sealer remover on any wood that’s previously been finished with paint, stain, or a clear sealer. Applying a deck wash product to completely clean all wood surfaces. Allow to dry thoroughly, at least 48 hours. Sanding any ridges or lifted grain with 80-grit sandpaper; cleaning up any dust.

How much does it cost to replace deck boards per square foot?

Replacing deck boards costs between $10 and $40 per square foot. This is one of the most common repair types because boards can crack, break, rot, swell, or warp from water or weather conditions.