Best Deck Paint For Old Wood (Top Picks!)

What can you do to combat the passage of time? 

It is entirely up to you! 

You can age with dignity or spend the summer on your knees painting.

VIDEO: Best Deck Paint For Old Wood

What is the best deck paint for old decks?

Based on hours of research into genuine customer reviews, expert advice, and my own experience as a homeowner, we’ve compiled this list of the best paint for wood deck floors.

L573611 Latex Floor Paint by KILZ

KILZ Latex Paint is the best choice for durable deck paint. It’s simple to apply and maintain, which makes it ideal! In addition, this type of formula resists not only wear and peeling but also fading, crackling, and scuffing.

In short, no more repainting will be required!

The long-lasting acrylic outdoor wood paint has a mold-resistant film and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it suitable for porches or patios.

The paint is appropriate for previously painted surfaces such as wood, masonry, and previously primed metal. It can be used on sidings, trellises, and trim and has a low-luster finish.

The floor paint is easy to apply and produces a silver-gray shade. Because the formula dries quickly, you can reapply it every four to six hours if necessary.

This paint comes in a 1-gallon can and should be applied with a quality 38 to 12-inch roller, sprayer, or nylon/polyester brush.

Furthermore, the formula can cover a 300-square-foot area on rough surfaces and a 400-square-foot area on smooth wood surfaces. This paint is highly rated, and the company has taken pride in providing high-quality patio deck paints for over 40 years.

PROS

• A long-lasting deck paint that is simple to care for and resists peeling, scuffing, cracking, and fading even in harsh conditions.
• This formula produces a matte finish.
• The best deck paint for an old deck
• The floor paint can be used on various surfaces, including porches, sidings, and floors.
• You can use a good roller, brush, or sprayer to apply it.
• It has a large footprint of about 300 to 400 square feet.

CONS

• Customers have complained about the use of contrasting colors on the patio.
• As the paint dries, it becomes more apparent.

Interior/Exterior Montage Signature Paint

Look no further than this water-based low VOC product for an eco-friendly paint suitable for use on weathered wood floors and decks. It is available in 18 pleasing gray tones with earthy undertones, ensuring a perfect fit!

The Montage Signature paint is an excellent choice for those who want to keep their old deck as eco-friendly as possible. This eco-friendly outdoor deck paint not only resists mold, mildew, and damaging UV rays but also provides plenty of protection against them!

You can cover 300 square feet with one gallon. Feet of indoor or outdoor floors. Because it is a water-based formula, you can easily clean it with soapy water.

TotalTread TotalBoat

Your deck is more likely to wear out when exposed to foot traffic, ultraviolet rays, and harsh weather conditions. In addition, total Boat’s non-skid paint can help prevent damage from spills, rain, dew, spray, or excessive use of a washdown hose.

TotalTread bonds are superior because they include wax texturing agents such as propyl tex and polyurethane. This formula is ideal for repairing your damaged deck and can be applied quickly and easily with a brush or paint roller.

Scrape off the old paint and thoroughly mix it before applying it for an even textured finish. Furthermore, this non-abrasive paint is anti-slip, ensuring your safety at all times. It also improves traction and keeps particles from clogging.

To keep the surface clean, you only need to dab it with a brush. The paint best suits decks, steps, docks, ramps, poles, cabin tops, and other similar surfaces. Two coats will provide a firm grip, while three coats will provide a more aggressive grip.

There are various colors available, so you can select the one that best suits you. However, you must ensure that the color you select complements your surroundings.

PROS

• Anti-slip paint is excellent.
• The formula dries quickly and is simple to apply.
• It has a long-lasting finish.
• This paint has strong properties.
• This non-skid paint comes in gallons and quarts.
• Customer satisfaction is guaranteed.

CON

• This paint may attract dirt or mildew.

Topside Rust-Oleum 206999 Paint

Rust-Oleum is a well-known name in the paint industry. It has been around since the invention of sliced bread, and its product is worth a look when looking for paint for wood decks.

Since 1921, the Marine Topside paint has been recognized as the premier deck paint among all products launched. It comes in various colors, allowing you to personalize your deck by incorporating unique elements.

The paint is available in black, gray, green, sand beige, and all shades of white. Because this formula is oil-based, you can expect excellent leveling quality and improved application.

Furthermore, it is a long-lasting deck paint that protects the surface from abrasion, UV rays, and extreme weather conditions, making it an excellent long-term option.

Furthermore, the formula dries quickly within a few hours. You’ll also appreciate its smooth finish and luster retention, revitalizing the deck area.

PROS

• This oil-based formula is highly adaptable.
• It is ideal for reviving old weathered wood.
• The paint comes in various colors, including all shades of white.
• It can be used on various surfaces, including wood, fiberglass, and metal.
• The formula is UV-ray resistant.
• With a roller, the application is dead simple.
• The paint is applied quickly and smoothly.
• It produces a long-lasting coating that takes up to a month to fully cure before becoming scratch-resistant.

CONS

• After a few weeks of application, the paint easily peels off.
• The paint loses its luster in less than six months and becomes grayish.

TH.043841-16 Thompson’s Waterseal

Thompson’s WaterSeal is another paint and sealing industry veteran. It has been operating since the early 1920s and has always emphasized resisting water damage in exterior areas. As a result, the company concentrates on waterproofing deck paints.

This waterproofing stain comes in six colors and adds the finishing touch to your old weathered wood. Woodland cedar, maple brown, coastal gray, acorn brown, sequoia red, and harvest gold are among them.

In addition to making your deck more visually appealing, the paint improves the surface’s durability. It is also resistant to mildew and UV rays. Furthermore, the advanced polymers make the shade even more fade-resistant.

That being said, you can apply the paint to either dry or damp wood, whichever is more convenient for you. The stain also dries in two hours, so you won’t have to wait any longer to use your deck.

The best part is that you can use just one coat for up to five years before repainting. Surprisingly, this single coating can last up to 15 years when applied to a fence.

PROS

• This stain is available in six solid colors, including golden.
• The paint protects against mildew and UV rays.
• It can be used in either dry or damp wood.
• The paint contains advanced polymers that are resistant to fading.
• The formula can cover a large area of up to 400 square feet of outside space.

CONS

• After less than a year, the stain begins to peel and flake.
• When the paint becomes wet, it becomes too slippery, putting you at risk of falling over when it rains.

FIX ALL Anti-Slip Skid Grip Paint

Skid Grip creates a slip-resistant surface that will complement your weathered deck, asphalt, and other surfaces.

Skid Grip’s Anti-Slip Paint is ideal for busy, high-traffic decks that require an additional layer of protection.

The 100% acrylic resin formula improves performance while reducing peeling and flaking. Furthermore, it reduces oxidation, so your anti-slip deck will look brand new for years to come.

Skid Grip Anti-Slip Paint is a low-cost way to improve the look of any project’s landscape. You can select from 7 different colors with varying textures and finishes to match any design style or color scheme. It also comes with two bases, giving you plenty of design options!

FIX ALL paint has excellent adhesion and can be applied with a brush or a paint roller. Cleanup is simple, as the best results require only soap and water! One gallon can cover up to 80 square feet of any wood material, depending on porosity levels.

To achieve the best results, apply two coats of paint.

PROS

• Acrylic is made entirely of acrylic.
• The surface that is resistant to slipping and sliding
• Excellent Wood Adhesion
• Color Resistance to Fading
• Exceeds ADA Slip Resistance Standards

CONS

• The instructions should be improved.

SU092209A INSL-X Coating Paint

INSL-X is a well-known brand of primers and paints. It has created many paints, one of which is the Sure Step Anti-slip, which helps to keep your surfaces safe. In other words, the finish prevents skids and, thus, accidents.

This paint prevents slipping and protects your and your family’s feet from abrasive surfaces. In other words, Sure Step Anti-slip paint resists abrasion, ensuring proper texture on all surfaces.

Most importantly, this paint is available in eight colors: saddle, tile red, desert sand, light gray, pine green, saddle brown, clear, grey pearl, and white. This means you have a variety of colors to choose from, whether neutral or transparent.

This is the one if you’re looking for paint that can fill gaps and seal weathered wood. Finally, it dries quickly, so you won’t have to wait long for your stain to dry completely.

PROS

• You will be able to select from eight different colors.
• Sure, Step Anti-slip paint is anti-slip, skid-resistant, and abrasion-resistant.
• Sure, Step Anti-slip paint can be used both inside and outside.
• It will be soon that your paint dries, filling and sealing any cracks in your old wood.

CONS

• Some customers have complained that the paint did not perform as promised on Amazon.
• A few customers have also complained that the paint does not adhere properly.

319176 RockSolid 20X Deck Resurfacer by Rust-Oleum

This is the ideal paint for restoring their weathered wood deck.

It has a textured finish that provides just enough matte look. Even better, it accomplishes this without being distracting or unrealistic in appearance.

The thick formula conceals flaws by smoothing over cracks. As a result, it forms an impermeable layer, ensuring no water damage on top!

Many deck owners appreciate how it eliminates unsightly cracks and nail holes without requiring labor. The textured, high-build formula fills 1/4-inch deep scratches in wood or between planks.

You’ll need the RockSolid 20X Roller Cover to apply this wood deck paint. After applying 8 gallons, use another roller cover to ensure a waterproof barrier.

RockSolid has the ideal solution for cleaning and priming your deck. There will be no more stripping or sanding. Instead, apply the cleaner/primer combination for a high-quality finish that will last all season!

What Should I Think About Before Purchasing the Best Deck Paint?

You must understand some features to look for when purchasing deck paint for old decks.

Let’s get this party started;

The coating’s thickness

Before purchasing any deck paint for weathered wood, you should know the thickness of the coating. This is because most deck paints have varying thicknesses, and failing to check may result in disappointment when you receive your new paint.

Paints with the numbers 4, 10, and 20 are thicker than regular paint from your local hardware store. This thickness is critical when you conceal cracks, bubbles, or scruffs that give your deck an unappealing appearance.

However, you should be aware that thick deck paints have some drawbacks. They are, for example, always more difficult to apply than more miniature thick deck paints. As a result, you may require additional brushes to work on your deck effectively.

Surfaces, both horizontal and vertical

We understand that selecting the best paint for old wood can be a nightmare, especially when dealing with a vertical surface. While resistant to the elements, outdoor paint is only effective when applied to vertical surfaces.

However, for old deck paint, choose one only intended for horizontal surfaces. The paint should be labeled for horizontal surfaces and exterior decks. Other factors to consider include the type of deck wood and the desired finish.

Per Gallon Area Coverage

Most homeowners buy more deck paint than they need, or they buy less than they need, halting the paint restoration process.

This is why considering the area coverage per gallon will help you purchase the appropriate paint.

Most reputable brands will indicate that they are covered by a gallon, making it easier for customers to determine how much paint they require.

A 4x restoration paint, for example, will cover approximately 80 square feet. This coverage will be reduced for thicker counterparts such as 10x and 20x.

The Shade

There are numerous deck paint colors when painting concrete or wood surfaces.

Instead of choosing colors that clash with the surrounding landscaping, use a color wheel to select a color that contrasts with the overall shade of the landscaping.

For example, the Rustoleum brand offers customers over 60 shades (in textured and standard finishes) to choose from.

While the Anvil brand has fewer color options, it has one of the best color retention rates.

In a nutshell, knowiKnowingwill help you make an informed decision once you arrive at your local store.

Application Simplicity

Deck paints are generally simple to apply because they dry quickly and provide even coverage.

Furthermore, most deck paints include second-coat provisions, particularly on the third and fourth days after the first coat was applied.

Please keep in mind that the level of preparation and the weather conditions at the time will determine the ease of application of deck paints.

Applying deck paints when the temperature is between 50 and 90 degrees will yield better results.

To ensure proper adherence of your deck paint to the surface, ensure that your painting area is free of substances such as stains, grease, and dirt.

The sheen on the Surface

Surface finishes may differ depending on the number of ingredients used in the product’s development. Examples include:

Eggshell

Eggshells have a soft, pleasant finish and contain about 10% sheen. Its low luster helps to hide the flaws in the deck. Because dirt collects on this finish, it’s best used in enclosed decks that aren’t exposed to wind and dust.

Satin

Satin is best suited for exterior wood surfaces due to its reduced sheen of approximately 30%. This surface sheen conceals many flaws and is simple to maintain. A simple sweep is all that is required to remove the dirt.

Semi-gloss

Semi-gloss is another easy-to-clean surface. It is also known as enamel, and it contains 70% sheen. Surface sheens of this type are ideal for doors, shutters, and trim doors. But, again, look into other baseboards and trim paints.

High sheen

Finally, the sheen on the high gloss surface is 85 percent. The dirt blows off on its own, making cleaning a breeze. In addition, this surface sheen helps draw attention to wood flaws, making it ideal for new deck boards.

Painting over high gloss paint is also a valuable skill to have.

Outdoor Deck Paint Types

Another important consideration when selecting deck paints for old wood is the type of paint, whether:

• Paint that is based on oil
• Acrylic
• Water-based deck paint.

Oil-based paint is more durable, can withstand higher temperatures, and is more lustrous.

For example, the Rustoleum brand offers customers over 60 shades (in textured and standard finishes) to choose from.

While the Anvil brand has fewer color options, it has one of the best color retention rates.

KnowingKnowingwill helps you make an informed decision once you arrive at your local store.

The Kind of Wood

Some woods, such as redwood and cedar, are resistant to moisture and insect damage. However, they are usually expensive. Most decks and exterior surfaces are made of wood that has been chemically treated to keep it from rotting.

Wait at least six months before painting a treated wood deck to allow the chemicals to evaporate.

How Do You Restore an Old Wooden Deck?

How do you paint your old wood deck now that you know the best for old decks, and what are some factors to consider when purchasing new deck paint?

The following is a step-by-step guide for painting an old deck with peeling paint.

Materials and Equipment

• A high-pressure washer
• Deck paint for exterior use
• Scraper for paint
• thinner for paint
• Paintbrushes
• painters’ rollers
• Sandpaper
• Paint remover

Step 1: Repair any damage that has occurred.

The first step in painting an old deck is to inspect it for any damage and repair it. For example, repair splintered wood on your deck first.

Next, inspect the pillars and footings to ensure they are in good condition. Also, because areas with grass or dirt rot quickly, inspect them.

If there are damaged or rotted boards, please replace them immediately before beginning to paint your old wood decks. You should also tighten any loose screws or screws that have shifted.

Railings are also important; make sure they are sturdy and rust-free. Please repair or replace any damaged items as soon as possible.

Step 2: Remove old deck paint.

Remove any previous paint or wood stain from a previously painted deck or concrete surface. If you need help remembering the last time you stained the same wood deck, this stage is critical.

Furthermore, you may not want to skip this step, especially if you intend to use a solid color stain or semi transparent stain.

Step 3: Scrub, Your Deck

The next step is to clean your deck thoroughly. A wood cleaner will suffice, but a power washer is preferable for removing built-up dirt from your decking boards. Remember that you’re not just after the dust but also the entire deck.

To avoid harming the theretofore, use the pressure washer.

Spray your decking to avoid harming the environment boards to clean them. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas such as stairwells and walkways. Wash any boards close to the garden because they are more prone to dirt accumulation.

Step 4: Prime

Priming is an essential step in painting, but it is also optional. However, consider priming the decking boards if you plan to use your deck for an extended period. This will also eliminate porous surfaces, resulting in a better painting experience.

If most of your decking boards are damaged, prime them to control paint coverage. However, if you use stain for your final coat, you can skip the priming step.

Step 5: Apply paint

It would help if you began deck painting after you stripped the old paint, cleaned, and primed it. But, again, it’s best to start with the upper parts, such as the railing and balusters, before moving on to other sections.

For any exterior wood surface, a minimum of two coats is recommended.

Remember to also paint between the deck surface boards. Here are some tips for interior painting between deck board horizontal surface quickly and efficiently.

Brands of Old Deck Paint

The best-rated deck paint is in high demand. And all you need is the right brand to give your wooden deck a new look.

Kilz

For more than 45 years, KILZ has been a household name in the paint and primer industry. Of course, not all paint is created equal, but KILZ believes that you only need one product when painting wooden decks.

Kilz paints are ideal for sealing decks and wood furniture because of their durability and high quality. The brand’s formula is tear-resistant and provides excellent coverage even on rough surfaces.

Sherwin-Williams

Sherwin-Williams is well-known for being the most customer-satisfied paint company.

Sherwin-Williams has the perfect color for a new coat of paint on your wooden deck or patio. Deck paint or deck coating from Sherwin-Williams can help protect your outdoor space. It’s like armor for wood, metal, and vinyl surfaces, and it’s long-lasting, fade-resistant, and simple to apply.

Mr. Benjamin Moore

Benjamin Moore transformed a modest exterior paint company in Brooklyn into a global leader in the home-building industry a century ago.

Today, they are one of the world’s largest providers of paints for residential and commercial applications.

Benjamin Moore celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2018 as an innovative, customer-focused company that provides high-quality pool deck paint at reasonable prices.

Rust-Oleum

Rust-Oleum is a reputable paint company that has been in business for nearly a century. Their products are suitable for any outdoor wood surface, focusing on protective paints.

They understand how to make high-quality paint suitable for commercial and residential applications.

FAQ on Best Deck Paint For Old Wood

When painting an old deck, what kind of paint do you use?

You can bring back the original beauty of an antique wooden deck even if it is weathered, cracked, and covered in splinters. Simply painting it with a thick deck repair coating made of acrylic will result in a surface that is smooth and durable for many years to come.

What kind of paint works best on old wood that has been exposed to the elements?

When it comes to painting aged wood, the type of paint that is easiest for do-it-yourselfers to work with is exterior flat acrylic latex paint. For the trim, you might think about using a long-lasting alkyd/oil paint that has a high sheen, good adhesion, and resistance to stains.

What kind of finish is ideal for a deck made of weathered wood?

Clear finishes and transparent stains can be used on newly installed wood without any issues; however, it is recommended that older decks be stained with a semi-transparent stain. Even while the grain is still visible, the old wood now has a clear and consistent hue, and the pigment makes it easier for any new wood to blend in.

On a wood deck, is it possible to paint over an existing coat of paint?

There is no need to strip your existing deck paint if it is already applying in the correct manner. Deck paint that has effectively bonded, adhered to deck surfaces, and does not exhibit any signs of cracking, bubbling, blistering, or chipping up can be painted over with significantly less preparation required.

Do you think it’s worth it to paint the old decking?

Paint is the finest option for revitalizing aged decking that is in need of little TLC and also provides an additional boost of wholesome color. And lastly, if your decking is turning gray and it needs to be nourished, oil is the finest option.