The Best Deck Paints Tested in 2023

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Decks extend the living area for personal downtime and festive gatherings, so they have to withstand a ton of traffic as well as take a beating from the elements. If you notice aged wood or peeling paint on your deck, it’s probably time for a fresh finish—the sooner, the better. Why? The longer you wait to paint the deck, the more flaws it can develop, making maintaining the deck that much more difficult.

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However, getting the best results requires more than just grabbing the first gallon of deck paint you see at the home improvement store. To make an informed selection, you need to know what to look for in a deck paint. That’s why I decided to test the top brands on today’s market.

I brushed on coat after coat of several different brands of deck paint on decking boards purchased specifically for the tests. I followed the application instructions for each and then took the test boards outdoors to face the harsh sun, rain, and wind before testing them further. Not all the deck paints I tried earned a spot in our lineup, but if you’re planning to update your deck, those that did are worth considering.

The best deck paint can stand up to harsh outdoor conditions, such as blowing dirt, wind, rain, and temperature extremes. Keep reading to learn how to choose the best deck paint, and see how each of the following products made it to this lineup.

1. BEST OVERALL: TotalBoat TotalTread Non-Skid Deck Paint
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: INSL-X Sure Step Acrylic Anti-Slip Coating
3. BEST FOR DECK RAIL: Montage Signature Eco-Friendly Paint
4. BEST GLOSS FINISH: Behr Premium Gloss Enamel Porch & Patio Floor Paint
5. BEST FOR POOL DECK: Fixall Anti-Slip Skid Grip Coating
6. BEST COLOR SELECTION: Behr Premium Low-Lustre Porch & Patio Floor Paint
7. BEST FOR OLD WOOD: Cabot DeckCorrect Water-Based Acrylic Deck Stain
8. BEST QUICK-DRYING: Behr Premium Solid Color Waterproofing Wood Stain

ALSO TESTED: Behr Premium Advanced DeckOver Waterproof Coating

How We Tested the Best Deck Paints

When I started researching deck paints, I found a lot of hype and even more conflicting information and reviews, which led to the decision to test the most popular brands. I wanted to determine each one’s overall quality, so I started by purchasing decking planks and cutting them down to 12-inch test boards.

I labeled the test boards, and, except for one paint meant for pool decks, I applied the deck paints. I noted how well the paints were blended right out of the can and how long I had to stir them (if applicable). I also noted how evenly each paint covered when I brushed it on the surface of the test boards.

I added a second coat of each paint to ensure it had the best shot at adhering and forming a durable surface. Then, a couple of weeks after painting, I tested the painted surfaces by scrubbing them with a white rag to see if any color came off. I then checked to see how slick the surfaces were.

As I put the paints through their paces, I used a rubric and awarded points as to how well each performed on every test. At the end of the testing, I added the points and used them to help determine relevant awards for each product.

Our Top Picks

All the following products had to pass stringent testing to qualify for a spot in this lineup of the best deck paints. Because readers deserve to know how a deck paint is likely to perform before spending their money, I didn’t pull any punches.

It’s a waste of time and money to apply a substandard paint. If the paint fails, the paint must be scraped off and prepped again.

All the following deck paints are designed for various outdoor climates and needs, but each is a standout in its class. Check out each selection to learn its pros and cons before deciding which deck paint to use.

ALSO TESTED

Behr Premium Advanced DeckOver Waterproof Coating

I was disappointed at having to disqualify Behr Premium Advanced DeckOver from this lineup. In the early phase of the testing, I was impressed with DeckOver—it went on smoothly, the color I’d chosen—a deep gray—was pleasing, and it provided a nice, nonslip finish.

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The problem came 2 weeks later after I’d left the decking board out in the harsh sun and elements before testing it for scrubbability. As with the other test boards, I sprayed the DeckOver test board with water and then rubbed it with a clean white cloth. The gray color came off on my rag. Behr claims the paint is fully cured in 72 hours, so it wasn’t an issue with the paint not curing.

I examined the board carefully, and with a fingernail, I picked gently at a loose edge of the painted surface. I was able to lift a section of the dried DeckOver paint and peel it off. At that point, I had no other option; I had to disqualify the paint from the lineup.

I can’t be sure whether I purchased an old can of paint that had been sitting on a shelf somewhere or if it had been exposed to extreme temps that damaged it. I just knew that it didn’t live up to our high standards.

Jump to Our Top Picks

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Deck Paint

Choosing a wood deck paint is about more than just buying exterior paint and rolling it on. According to Jolene Jantz, paint adviser for Jantz Lumber and Do it Center in McPherson, Kansas, DIYers should first make sure the paint is meant for horizontal surfaces.

Jantz explains that many exterior paints and enamels can withstand the elements—when applied to vertical surfaces. Deck paint must be made specifically to apply to horizontal surfaces. “The can should say that the paint is made for horizontal surfaces if it’s suitable for use on a deck,” Jantz said.

Additional considerations include the type of wood, the kind of prep work required before painting, and the desired look of the finished project.

Base

Deck paint comes in two main types: oil-based and water-based, each of which has advantages and disadvantages. While oil-based paints once ruled the market, water-based products are in greater demand today because of their improved durability and ease of use.

Oil-based deck paint has been around for decades, and until the past decade or so, it was considered the best paint for decks and other exterior projects. These paints are still a durable and affordable option, but they also have some less desirable features. An oil-based wood deck paint:

• Provides a tough, durable finish;
• Can last 5 to 10 years, depending on wood condition and paint quality
• Provides optimal moisture protection;
• Is available in a range of colors;
• Is high in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which create fumes that can lead to watery eyes, a sore throat, or other respiratory issues;
• Requires the use of a solvent, such as paint thinner or turpentine, to clean brushes, rollers, and sprayers; and
• Can take up to 24 hours to dry sufficiently, although some oil-based paints now contain quick-drying additives that allow recoating in 6 to 8 hours.

Water-based deck paint, including acrylic paint and latex paint, has come a long way in recent years. In fact, many experts consider it just as good as oil-based paints. Today these paints are available in a variety of colors and optional ingredients that help protect exterior wood. A water-based wood deck paint:

• Is low in VOCs;
• Can last 4 to 8 years, depending on wood condition and paint quality
• Offers the best protection against fading;
• Cracks and peels less because its acrylic ingredients are flexible;
• Cleans up with just soap and water;
• Dries quickly and is ready to recoat in 4 to 6 hours; and
• Is available in a range of colors.

VOC Content

Many of today’s consumers want to use fewer toxic products. In response, paint manufacturers are finding ways to manufacture quality paints with lower volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), which are the harmful gases emitted by these products. Some may cause health problems. Deck paint with lower VOC content is labeled as either “Low-VOC” or “Zero-VOC.”

• Low-VOC: Paints bearing the “Low-VOC” label should contain less than 50 grams per liter (g/L) of VOCs if the paint has a flat finish and no more than 110 g/L if the paint features a sheen, such as gloss or semi-gloss.
• Zero-VOC: Also called “No-VOC,” paint labeled “Zero-VOC” contains minimal volatile organic chemicals—or none at all. A Zero-VOC deck paint may still have trace amounts of VOCs, but no more than 5 g/L. Individuals who are sensitive to the fumes from higher VOC paints likely prefer these paints.

Wood Type

Some wood species, such as redwood and cedar, are naturally resistant to moisture damage, rot, and insect infestations, but they’re typically pricey. As a result, most exterior decks are constructed from treated lumber. This wood, usually yellow pine or Douglas fir, is infused under pressure with alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) to resist the elements. However, when it reaches the lumberyard, this popular lumber is often newly treated, and the ACQ chemicals haven’t had time to evaporate out of the wood.

Before painting a new treated-wood deck, experts recommend waiting at least 6 months to ensure these chemicals have evaporated completely. If you paint a deck before the chemicals evaporate, the paint may not adhere, resulting in cracking and peeling.

Durability

To stand up to the elements, the deck paint must be labeled “exterior paint” to help ensure its suitability for outdoor use. Steer clear of interior paints, which don’t have adequate weather- and fade-resistant qualities.

The adage “You get what you pay for” is true with paint. The best deck paints contain better binding agents and longer-lasting pigments, such as titanium dioxide, that make the color less likely to fade or peel.

Manufacturers often produce paint in three categories: “Good,” “Better,” and “Best.” Products labeled “Best” may cost twice as much as those in the “Good” lineup, but they are more durable. Higher quality paints are also thicker, which means a gallon of “Good” paint will cover more square feet than a gallon of “Best” paint. “Best” paint can leave a thicker, more durable coating on the deck. The general rule is to buy the highest quality paint available, because it will last longer and protect the wood more efficiently.

Look for these qualities:

• 100 percent acrylic: Top-of-the-line water-based deck paints often contain all-acrylic binders, making them slightly flexible and less likely to peel.
• Polyurethane (PU): Like acrylic paint, polyurethane-based paints are durable and provide a weather-resistant coating. Marine paint is typically this type.
• Drying oils: In oil-based paints, the inclusion of drying oils, such as linseed oil or modified oil, indicates the paint will go on evenly and dry to a hard, durable finish.
• UV blockers: Both oil-based and water-based paints will last longer if they contain UV blockers that protect them from damaging UV rays.
• Mildewcide: When painting a deck in a humid region, look for the addition of mildewcide to help reduce the risk of mold or mildew growth on the deck.

Climate Conditions

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Because they’re intended for exterior use, most deck paints contain additives to protect the deck from mold, mildew, UV rays, and extreme temperatures. While paints with one or two of these additives are typically OK, it’s often a good idea to opt for a product with all three for the best protection and longest-lasting color.

Wet and rainy climates contribute to deck paint failure, because if moisture seeps into the wood beneath the paint, it can loosen the bond between wood and paint, resulting in peeling. To reduce this risk, paint all sides of the deck boards—even the bottom, if possible—to seal the wood and keep out moisture. If the deck sits low to the ground, making it impossible to paint the underside, consider using a penetrating deck stain rather than a deck paint. When choosing between paint or stain, remember that stain will seep into the wood grain itself.

Lasting Color

Both oil-finish and high-quality water-based deck paints resist fading, but deep colors and bright tones usually fade more quickly than light hues and earthy tones. Dark, bright colors require a higher percentage of pigments to bring out the color. Adding higher levels of pigment can reduce the quality of the main ingredients because they’re more diluted. Paint manufacturers constantly work to improve color durability, and today’s paints are more colorfast than their predecessors.

When choosing a color, also consider the deck’s location. A deck that’s frequently in the sun will fade more quickly than a deck in deep shade, even if the paint contains UV protection.

Texture and Finish

Deck paint is available in different surface finishes, depending on the percentage of gloss ingredients in the formula.

• Flat: Deck paint with a flat finish has no sheen at all, so it helps hide flaws, such as gouges or splits in the wood. However, dirt is more likely to stick to a flat finish, making flat paint better suited to decks that won’t see a lot of muddy traffic.
• Eggshell: Eggshell deck paint, which has a slight sheen of about 10 percent, provides a nice, soft finish. The low level of shine also helps hide flaws in the wood. Dirt often collects on an eggshell surface, making it more suitable for enclosed decks.
• Satin: Also called “low luster,” satin is a popular choice for outdoor decks because it offers a muted sheen (about 30 percent), yet it still hides many flaws and allows dirt and dust removal by simply sweeping.
• Semi-gloss: Semi-gloss (also called “enamel”) paint provides about 70 percent sheen with a surface that’s easy to sweep and wipe away spills. This is the most commonly used finish for exterior trim work, doors, and shutters, so choose semi-gloss to match trim.
• High gloss: High gloss is easy to keep clean. Dust and dirt blow right off, and spills are easy to wipe up. However, with about 85 percent shine, this finish can highlight flaws in woodwork. Every nail hole and chunk of missing wood will show, so it’s a better choice for newly built decks.

Decks, steps, and porches often get wet and slick in inclement weather, especially if they surround a swimming pool or are otherwise exposed to the elements. In addition to selecting a color, consider nonslip paint. Many deck paints contain ingredients, such as fine silica sand, that create a slightly textured surface to increase traction and reduce the risk of slipping.

Dry Time

Most oil-based deck paints take longer to dry than water-based options, which can take as long as 6 to 24 hours, depending on the product. Water-based paints dry more quickly, some as quickly as in 1 to 2 hours. However, temperature and humidity affect the dry times of both types of paint.

Many deck paint manufacturers suggest applying paint when the outdoor temperature is over 50 degrees Fahrenheit but no higher than 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures lower than 50 degrees can cause either type of paint to dry more slowly. In temperatures higher than 80 degrees, especially on a dry, sunny day, the paint may dry too quickly, which means the ingredients won’t bind as well as they should, reducing the quality and endurance of the paint.

Recoating time is slightly longer than drying time. In general, allow an additional 24 hours after oil-based paint dries before recoating, and allow 4 hours after water-based paint dries before applying a second coat.

Prep and Application

For quality results, readying a deck for painting is essential. According to Jantz, “It’s the single most important part of learning how to paint a deck.” Prepping involves the following steps: Clean the deck: Use a deck-cleaning solution designed to dissolve dirt, grease, and grime. If using a power washer, adjust it to the lowest pressure setting to avoid digging out chunks of wood.

• Remove loose paint: If paint is loose or peeling from a previous paint job, remove it with a paint scraper to ensure new paint will adhere to the surface. Not all of the old paint needs to be removed, just the loose flakes.
• Make repairs: Replace loose or damaged boards before painting.
• Sand: For the smoothest finish, sand the entire deck before painting. Hand-sanding is fine, but a power sander speeds up the task.
• Apply paint to a dry deck: Paint doesn’t adhere well to damp wood, so let the deck dry completely before painting. Some deck paints can be applied with a roller, brush, or sprayer; however, don’t use a sprayer with anti-slip deck paints because of their textured ingredients.
• Prime: In both previously painted and new decks, first apply a primer so the new paint will adhere better.

FAQs

With the cost of construction materials at an all-time high, it pays to protect a backyard deck to gain as much useful life from it as possible. A fresh coat of paint can help safeguard wood decks from UV damage, mildew, and water rot, but for those new to the idea of painting a deck, some questions are to be expected.

Q. Is it better to paint or stain a deck?

If you’ve previously painted the deck, it’s best to repaint. For a new deck or an older deck that you’ve never painted, you can either stain or paint it.

Q. Which lasts longer on a deck, stain or paint?

You’ll need to reapply deck stain every few years. Deck paint can last up to 7 years before reapplication is needed, depending on paint quality and the wood’s condition.

Q. How long does deck paint last?

Ultimately, longevity depends on the quality of the paint and the condition of the deck. However, in general, expect deck paint to last 4 to 7 years.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Outdoor