How to Paint Decking

Decking is a great place to relax and enjoy your outside space, but it can be damaged by weathering and needs regular maintenance to keep it in top condition.

Sunlight can cause fading, while rainwater can form cracks in the wood. Cleaning, treating and applying a fresh coat of paint can work wonders on wood decking. Our step-by-step guide is here to help you prep and paint garden decking – read on to find out more.

What you’ll need

Before you start painting the decking, make sure to have these essential tools and preparation products on hand:

• PPE. You may want to wear goggles, gloves and protective overalls while treating and painting decking.

• Decking cleaner. Use a specialist decking cleaner for best results.

• Stiff broom. Remove any dirt or debris before or during cleaning.

• Decking protection. Before painting, apply decking protection treatments like anti-slip stains, nourishing oils, and primers.

• Decking paint. Explore exterior paints for wood in shades and finishes to find the perfect match.

• Rollers or a paint spray gun. These tools allow for a swift paint application on large areas.

• Paintbrushes. These are essential for intricate areas of decking that might be difficult to reach with a roller or spray machine.

Things to consider before painting your decking

We surveyed 114 professionals from the property and construction industry to find out the most common mistakes when painting decking. 47.37% said the biggest mistake is a lack of preparation, closely followed by incorrect application (26.32%) and a lack of aftercare (26.32%).

There are a few steps you can take before painting decking to ensure a smooth application and long-lasting results, including:

• Check the weather forecast. Wait for a couple of days of dry weather before working on garden decking, as even light showers can spoil your paintwork. Avoid working in extremely hot weather, as intense sun can dry the paint too quickly.

• Assess the condition of the decking. Decking that’s been painted or stained is suitable for restoration. If you’re working with newly laid decking that hasn’t been treated with decking oil or deck stain, leave it to weather for a few months to help the paint absorb properly.

How to choose the right decking treatment

Several products can be used to achieve the desired finish on wood decking. Whether you’re looking for the best paint for decking, exterior wood stains, or nourishing oils, Dulux Decorator Centre has the right product for the job.

Paint

If you want to change the colour of your decking, paint is the ideal solution. But can you use fence paint on decking? Any exterior wood paint can be used on wooden decking, so you can match the fence colour to the decking and use up any leftover paint. At Dulux Decorator Centre, we have decking paint in various shades and finishes to suit any home exterior.

Wood stains

We recommend using an exterior wood stain to enhance the decking’s natural colour. Stains offer a subtle wash of colour and come in various shades, from dark to light brown. They tint the surface and have weatherproofing properties, making them an ideal two-in-one solution for decking. Discover how to stain wood in our dedicated guide.

Oils

Exterior wood oils and preservers are the best way to nourish and protect decking. Choose from clear or tinted options with added UV protection and waterproofing properties to keep the surface looking its best for longer. Explore our guide to learn how to protect exterior woodwork, including decking, fences, garden furniture, and sheds.

How to prepare your decking for painting

Preparing decking for painting ensures long-lasting, durable results. Follow these steps to prepare garden decking for paint.

Step 1: Clear and repair the decking

• Remove any furniture from the decking so you can see what you’re dealing with.

• Clear the decking of debris using a stiff broom to sweep away leaves, dirt, or moss.

• Check for loose boards that might need tightening and fix any damaged or rotting areas.

Step 2: Identify the material

• Identify the decking material and condition so you can choose the right products. If old paint needs stripping or the decking requires a primer, you can gather the necessary equipment before you start.

Step 3: Sand the decking

• Sanding is an essential step whether you’re painting, staining, or oiling decking. It removes old layers of paint, chemicals, or stubborn dirt on the wood, creating a smooth surface.

• Sand out all grooves and imperfections, and remember to sand in the direction of the wood grain.

Step 4: Clean the decking

• Brush over the decking with a stiff brush to clear debris from sanding.

• Clean the deck by applying a cleaner straight onto the surface – Rustins Decking Cleaner is great for removing dirt, grease and stains from decking. Use a scrubbing brush and clean water to rinse.

Step 5: Apply primer

• Prime decking boards to improve the paint adhesion.

• Priming isn’t essential when using self-undercoating Dulux Trade paints, but it can help achieve a flawless finish that lasts longer.

A step-by-step guide to painting decking

• Now you’ve prepared the decking, it’s time to paint. Follow these steps for the best results.

Step 1: Stir your paint

• Mix the paint thoroughly with a stirring stick to ensure a consistent colour and finish.  

Step 2: Apply the first coat

• Start painting in the corner of the decking that is furthest away, working your way backwards and applying the paint in the direction of the wood grain.

• Use a roller or spray machine to paint the decking quickly and effectively.

• Fill in any cracks in the surface with a paintbrush.

Step 3: Leave to dry, then recoat

• Let the first coat dry for 2-4 hours before applying a second.

• Two coats should give the desired opacity and finish, but if an extra coat is needed, wait another 2-4 hours before recoating.

How to maintain your decking

When asked how often customers request decking painting, 40.35% of our survey respondents said every few years. 37.72% said they’re asked to paint decking once a year, while 12.28% said they receive these requests more than once a year. This shows that with the correct preparation, application and maintenance, decking paint should last for many years.

When your decking makeover is complete, make sure it stays looking good for as long as possible with these simple decking aftercare tips:

• Keep the decking clean. Sweep away any debris using a stiff broom and clean the decking once a month using a specialist cleaner or pressure washer.

• Inspect for damage. Inspect the decking twice a year (ideally in spring and autumn) to check for damage and signs of mould and address any problems before they worsen.

• Use protective products. Apply protective products every 1-2 years, including anti-mould treatments and wood preservers.

Browse everything you need to treat decking with our wood deck care range. From decking oil to cleaning products, improve the lifespan of all exterior wood when you shop from trusted brands at Dulux Decorator Centre.