How To Pick The Best Deck Paint
If you own a house that has a beautiful deck, sooner or later you will need a deck paint to maintain the attractive look of your place. Knowing what type of paint to use on your wooden exterior can save you tons of money in the long run. You want to avoid having to paint your deck every year just because of a bad painting job.
Since I live in a sunny and hot climate, my deck is always exposed to direct sunlight and UV rays. I wanted to find solutions on how I can save time, money and effort on maintaining it. I’ve gone through numerous trials and errors before I found the right product for my deck.
Finding more about the different types of deck paint and how to pick the best one can help you avoid some of the mistakes I made. We gathered the best deck paint reviews to help you decide.
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How To Choose The Right Type For Your Home
There are a variety of deck paints you can choose from. It can be confusing especially when you have no idea what kind of paint you need to buy for your deck. Not all paints and stains are best for all surfaces.
This is why it’s important to know the factors and considerations that will work with your requirement before buying a deck paint.
1. Types Of Formula
When it comes to paint finishes, there are basically three different categories which are water-based, oil-based, and hybrid formulas. However, most brands use different terms including chemical names or generic words. By identifying the keywords, you can easily sort through the different types of formulas and brands.
Here are the different types of deck paint formula:
- Water-based - A water-based formula is also referred to as acrylic, latex, silicone or waterborne. This type of paint appears thicker and doesn’t penetrate wood as easily as oil-based materials. Since it doesn’t have any solvent in it, the paint has lower VOC levels and minimal odor.
- Oil-based – An oil-based formula is also known as oil, linseed or alkyd. This type of paint is the most traditionally used for decks. A linseed oil is often mixed together with alkyds, a synthetic alternative that prevents yellowing of the material.
- Hybrid – A hybrid is also called as oil/latex, acrylic/oil, acrylic/alkyd, water-reduceable or a waterborne-modified. Hybrid finishes are concocted from a combination of different types and elements of both oil and water-based formulas. Although combining oil and water may not make sense at first, it actually produces lower VOC levels, improved color retention and is easier to clean with just soap and water.
This type of paint retains color better than an oil-based formula and can be easily cleaned up with soap and water. However, it requires prepping up before painting which takes up most of your time.
An oil-based paint is absorbed better by wood compared to water-based finish making it easier to paint and coat. On the downside, it consists of higher VOCs and solvent which are more harmful to your health.
2. Pigment
Deck paints are usually available in four levels of density including clear, toner, semitransparent, semisolid, and solid. They vary depending on the amount of pigment which helps protect the wood from UV damage.
- Clear, transparent or translucent – This type of material appears clear as water or in some cases, a milky white substance. It dries out and doesn’t have any UV protection. On the other hand, there are clear finishes that have organic UV absorbers but breaks down easily which makes your wood material more vulnerable to color change and surface damage.
- Toner – This type of material is also known as a tinted or wood-tone finish. A toner usually comes in brown and red tones.
- Semisolid and semi-transparent – This finish has more color options compared to toners. They also offer the best kind of protection for the wood while retaining its natural beauty. This type of finish is highly recommended if you are refurbishing your old withered wooden deck.
- Solid – A solid stain provides the best protection against UV damage. At the same time, it lasts the longest compared to the other finishes. If you are buying a product to conceal stains and imperfections on your deck, a solid stain is a great choice.
However, it is more prone to experience wear and tear. Plus, the natural color and grain of the wood will be covered. Once water seeps in the wood, it has a high chance of peeling the finish.
3. VOC or Volatile Organic Compounds
A traditional paint relies on a solvent to absorb oil resins and additives. Most consumers are more geared towards choosing water-based paint due to lower VOCs. This is mainly due to strict government rules regarding VOC levels. The standard level is up to 550 grams a liter.
The Best Deck Paint Reviews
A deck paint is specifically designed to maintain and preserve your wood against harsh external environment. There are various brands in the market with similar features. However, they also differ in some ways.
Here are some of the highly recommended deck paints to help you understand how each works.
1. Anvil Deck-A-New Premium Textured Resurfacer
Via Amazon.com
The Anvil Deck-A-New restores old weathered wood and concrete in your home. It helps breathe new life to your withered patio and deck. You can use it on either vertical or horizontal applications on both interior and exterior surfaces.
It is formulated with 100% acrylic paint which makes it resistant to cracking. The coating fills in cracks and provides a slip resistant finish to avoid any accidents from happening. It has a textured solid finish that helps repair wooden, composite decks, concrete patios, walkways, and porches and protects the surface for years to come.
Pros
- The coating helps preserve and protect the surface making it resistant to peeling and cracking.
- It is easy to apply and is quick to dry.
- The color and texture make the paint durable. It can withstand high traffic areas that are often prone to wear and tear.
- The textured finish is a bit rough but still comfortable to walk on even when you’re barefoot. It has a non-slip coating that works great.
- It provides great coverage, especially on old decks.
Cons
- The paint appears thick which may mean that you might end up using more than you should.
- It takes a long time to apply the paint on your deck.
- A roller may use up more paint which is why we recommend using a brush instead during applications.
- It has the tendency to chip off after a while making your deck appear untidy and speckled with chunks of paint.
Verdict:
Anvil Deck-A-New Premium Textured Resurfacer helps restore your old weathered floor decks. It has a non-slip texture for better traction. However, the paint may tend to peel after a while.
2. Durabak 18
Via Amazon.com
The Durabak 18 is a protective coating that can be used for various applications especially for outdoor use. You can use this to coat your deck or patio even under direct sunlight. It comes in two versions, a smooth polish or a textured finish with rubber tire granules making it slip resistant even when it gets wet.
You can easily apply it directly to surfaces such as wood, concrete, fiberglass, metal or other coated surfaces using a brush, spray or roller. It is simple and easy to use. All you have to do is open the can, stir the paint and apply it to the surface.
Pros
- The Durabak doesn’t chip or peel off even when during frictions. It is durable and can withstand any weather or condition.
- Since it is waterproof, you won’t have to worry about slipping on wet surfaces.
- The material is durable and flexible. It holds up against heavy friction or abrasion.
Cons
- The coating tends to clump up in some areas.
- The material appears too thick which can sometimes be a challenge to work with.
Verdict:
The Durabak 18 is a good choice for any coating job. Its non-slip feature is great for traffic areas that require traction. The water resistant and texture finish eliminates the possibility of accidents especially when the deck is wet.
3. DeckWise Ipe Oil Hardwood Deck Finish
Via Amazon.com
The Deckwise Hardwood Deck Finish is created to preserve the natural look of exterior hardwood floors. It works great even on thick woods. This finish is suitable for various types of hardwoods including Ipe, Cumaru, Tigerwood, and other woods.
This material is infused with an oil-based natural wood finish that is specially designed for exterior hardwood decks. It protects and conditions the wood and while maintaining its natural look.
Pros
- The application is simple and breezy. I used it on my hardwood deck in one application.
- The finished product looks great on your deck.
- If you want to restore your wooden deck to its original dark wood color, this product may do the job for you. Just make sure you follow the instructions clearly and avoid overusing it. Wait for the wood to absorb the coating.
Cons
- There is a tendency for your wooden deck to go darker. However, it will also depend on how you apply the finish to the wood.
- The rags may be highly flammable. Make sure you take extra care when handling the rags. Let them dry naturally or place them in a water-filled metal container.
Verdict:
The Deckwise Hardwood Deck Finish helps revive your old hardwood. It conditions the surface and protects it from external elements.
4. TWP/Gemini Total Wood Preservative
Via Amazon.com
The TWP/Gemini Total Wood Preservative is formulated to absorb and repel water. It keeps your deck protected from U.V. damage and prevents the wood from rotting. The paint finish is designed to resist mold and mildew making it durable enough to withstand weather and environmental factors.
This paint finish is easy to apply and maintain. It retains the color of your new deck for a long time. The semi-transparent stain helps preserve the natural color of the wood.
Pros
- The material won’t peel off easily.
- It repels water to avoid any slips.
- The paint’s material contains fewer VOCs that may be harmful to your health.
- It works great on both vertical and horizontal surfaces.
- The paint gives off a shiny, satin finish with a plastic feel to it making it appear more attractive.
Cons
- The paint tends to leave brush marks on the surface.
- The pigment doesn’t stay suspended. Make sure you occasionally stir it to achieve a better texture. Otherwise, if improperly mixed, it may sink to the bottom of the can.
Verdict:
The TWP/Gemini Total Wood Preservative helps protect and preserve the condition of your deck. If you are looking for a product to maintain the condition of your wooden deck, then this may be a suitable product for you. It repels water, prevents rotting, and maintains the natural color of your wood.
5. Rust-Oleum 00903 Woodlife Classic
Via Amazon.com
The Woodlife Classic paint is specifically used to retain the natural wood color of your deck allowing it to naturally turn to gray. It is resistant to water damage and prolongs the life of your outdoor deck.
Pros
- It works great on any exterior painting of wood and stains the surface evenly.
- Since the finishing is water resistant, it helps protect the paint from peeling.
- It has anti-bacterial properties which prevent your wood from building up moisture and fungus.
- The paint lasts longer without any signs of cracking.
- It cleans up easily with water.
Cons
- Since it has an extremely thin fluid, the material has less viscosity than water making it a bit hard to apply. Plus, the coating may tend to drip easily from the brush.
- The coating is easily absorbed by the wood so expect to use a lot of the paint.
Verdict:
The Woodlife Classic protects your paint from cracking and peeling. It evenly stains the surface and prolongs the condition of your wooden deck.
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Conclusion
Are you still confused on which product to pick? Let us help you by recommending the best deck paint based on the reviews. After evaluating all five products, we chose the Duraback 18.
Compared to the rest of the products featured, the Duraback appears to be the best solution to maintaining the condition and look of your deck. The Duraback is a great choice for DIY projects. You can use it on various types of surfaces including wood, concrete, metal, fiberglass among many others.
Since it is specifically designed for outdoor use, it also protects your deck from chipping and water stains. Yu can try it out for yourself to see the difference.