Categories Exterior Painting

Can You Paint Pressure Treated Wood?

Can you paint pressure treated wood?

Pressure treated wood is used for numerous outdoor projects. Because it’s been treated with chemicals, people often wonder, “Can you paint pressure treated wood?” While you most certainly can paint pressure treated wood, it’s important to be sure it’s had proper time to dry as well as knowing which kind of paint will adhere best. Continue reading to learn the ins and outs of painting pressure treated wood so your next outdoor project will be a success. 

What is Pressure Treated Wood? 

Pressure treated wood is simply wood that’s been treated with chemicals to protect it from moisture and insects. The chemicals it’s treated with don’t necessarily make the wood stronger but prevent it from prematurely rotting. Wood structures that will be constantly exposed to moisture or the elements are often built with pressure treated wood. Fences, playgrounds, decks, railings and playground equipment are typically constructed with pressure treated wood to hold up better over time. 

When to Paint Pressure Treated Wood 

The most important thing to consider when painting pressure treated wood is drying time. It may take up to 3-4 months for it to completely dry out enough to paint. One easy way to test if pressure treated wood is ready to paint is to drop some water on its surface. If the water droplets bead up, you’ll know the treated wood is still too damp. Once the droplets are absorbed into the wood instead of being repelled, it’s ready to be painted.

When Not to Paint Pressure Treated Wood 

Be very aware that if you attempt painting pressure treated wood before it’s fully cured, it can leave you with a disaster. If you paint one side of the wood but it isn’t fully dry, you will most likely deal with some pretty severe warping. The non-painted side will dry faster and when that happens, you’ll end up not only with warped wood but with peeling and cracking paint as well. 

How to Paint Pressure Treated Wood 

Painting pressure treated wood involves steps that you wouldn’t necessarily take when painting regular lumber. Below is a list of step-by-step instructions you’ll need when painting pressure treated wood:

Step 1. Thoroughly Clean the Wood

Making sure the wood you’re working with is clean is the first step you’ll need to take before painting. Using a stiff-bristled brush and a solution of soapy water, scrub the entire surface of the wood. Follow up the cleaning with a good rinse and let dry. 

Step 2. Let the Wood Dry 

If you have an upcoming project that involves pressure treated wood, make sure and plan ahead when considering drying time. Be prepared that it could take as long as a few weeks to a couple of months. If you have a deadline on your project, it may be worth purchasing pressure treated wood that has already been through the drying process. 

Once the wood feels dry, test it out by using the water droplet method mentioned earlier in this article. If water beads up on the surface of the treated wood, it needs more time to dry. If the water absorbs into the wood, it’s dry enough to go forward with your painting. 

Step 3. Apply Primer 

Once you know your wood is completely dry you can begin applying your primer. Make sure and purchase a primer that is designed for exterior pressure-treated wood. A paint sprayer is fast and efficient but also using a brush may be necessary to catch all the detail work. 

Step 4. Apply Paint or Stain 

After you’ve allowed proper time for the primer coat to dry, you can start applying your top coats. We recommend applying two coats for the best protection and coverage. Stick with using latex paints as they tend to work best when dealing with pressure treated wood. Avoid using oil-based paints. 

Can You Paint Pressure Treated Wood Conclusion

Pressure treated wood may need a few extra steps in preparation for painting but other than that it’s a fairly straightforward process. However, if you feel your painting project may be more involved than you would like, and you live in the Boise area, calling in the professionals at Boise Home Painting is always a great option. Our team of experienced painters will be happy to answer all of your questions or give you a free quote. We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle. Don’t hesitate to contact our office today!

Categories Painting

How Often Should You Paint Your House?

How Often Should You Paint Your House?

Painting your home can take lots of time and can also prove to be quite expensive. So, how often should you paint your house? Waiting too long can do costly damage to the integrity of your home. On the other hand, you don’t want to spend money to upgrade your paint if your paint has plenty of life left. Because your home is likely your biggest asset, it’s important to recognize the signs when it’s ready for a fresh coat of paint. 

How Often You Should Paint Your House Exterior 

Most painting professionals agree that you should paint the exterior of your home every 5-10 years. That number certainly isn’t set in stone and may vary depending on the surface of your home and the quality of paint previously applied. Here are some guidelines to follow for painting different surfaces: 

  • Aluminum siding needs to be repainted every 5 years 
  • Wood surfaces require painting every 5-7 years 
  • Stucco should be repainted roughly every 5-6 years 

How Long Does Exterior Paint Last? 

There are some things to consider when it comes to prolonging your home’s exterior paint. If you want your paint job to last for 5-10 years, a lot is riding on the quality and kind of paint you choose. Just like everything, a higher quality paint will likely cost you more but is well worth it in the long run. Do some research before buying to ensure you are purchasing the best paint for your specific surface. You’ll need different paint for stucco, wood, aluminum, or brick. Keep in mind that a high-quality gallon of paint runs around $30. 

How Often You Should Paint your House Interior 

It’s difficult to give a specific time frame when it comes to painting the interior of your home. The level of use in each room is different which means that higher traffic areas will need to be repainted more often than a room that is rarely used. 

On average, most interior rooms may need to be repainted every 5-7 years. Children’s rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms may require painting closer to every 3-4 years. Even if you use the most durable paint finishes, kitchen walls are prone to grease and food splatters and will always require maintenance sooner. Bathroom and kitchen walls require wiping down on a more regular basis, naturally causing the paint to wear down more quickly. Adult bedrooms, as well as formal dining rooms, don’t actually get used very often.

These rooms tend to have more furniture which naturally keeps any traffic away from the walls, prolonging the life of the paint. Children’s bedrooms often function as a playroom as well as a bedroom. This usually means there’s an abundance of activity taking place every day which can lead to not only dirty walls but dented and damaged walls. When painting these rooms, always opt for the more durable paint finishes such as eggshell or satin. Taking advantage of these more protective sheens will prevent dirt from showing and keep your walls looking nicer longer. 

Signs you Should Repaint Your House 

There are various conditions that indicate it’s time to paint your house. Odds are, you may not even remember how long it’s been since your exterior was updated. If it’s been a while, it’s important to self-evaluate the condition of your exterior. You don’t want to be negligent when it comes to such an important matter. Here are a few signs to look for:

  1. Fading Paint 

One of the most obvious ways to detect that it’s time to paint the exterior of your home is fading. Over time, the Boise sun will cause your paint to fade, especially in areas where the sun directly hits your paint the longest. If your home is painted a dark color, you’ll likely notice any fading much sooner 

than with a lighter shade. If you see fading on the shaded parts of your home, you could have a problem with water intrusion. Look for stains dripping downward that may indicate a water leak. Call in a professional if you can’t determine the source of the problem. 

  1. Hardened Caulk 

Caulk used on the exterior of your home is generally designed to expand and contract along with your house. It’s used to seal cracks between doors and windows. After years of exposure to the sun, caulk loses its elasticity and can become hard or start to crack. If you see areas where caulk is missing, hardened, or cracked, it’s time to repaint. 

  1. Patching Stucco

Re-stuccoing your entire home is very expensive. To cut down on costs, patch cracked areas and repaint the entire house. Otherwise, you’ll be left with obvious patchwork areas and unsightly streaks. 

  1. Bubbling, or Flaking Paint 

There are several factors that contribute to bubbling, flaking, or cracking paint. But all are signs that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. Generally, all of these concerns are an indicator that the paint is no longer adhering to the house. Somehow, moisture is getting beneath the paint. Extreme humidity, storms, and harsh climates can cause these symptoms in your paint. 

  1. If You Want to Improve Curb Appeal 

Maybe you just purchased your home but don’t love the color. Or you might feel that times have changed and you want a more up-to-date style. If you’re looking to sell, an updated exterior is proven to make your home sell faster and for a better price. Whatever the reason, a fresh coat of exterior paint will most certainly improve the curb appeal of your home.

How Often Should You Paint Your House Conclusion 

Painting the exterior of your home can be a very daunting task. However, letting your exterior paint job go for even a few extra years can result in costly damage to your home. If you live in the Boise area and you’re unsure if your exterior is in need of repainting or you in fact know that it does, contact Boise Home Painting today. Our friendly team of experts can assess the situation and answer all your questions. We serve the entire area including Meridian, Caldwell, and Eagle. Click here to get your free consultation. 

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Categories interior painting

How to use black paint for walls

How To Use Black Paint For Walls

In this guide, we’ll teach you how to use black paint for walls. When it comes to painting your walls black, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First of all, black is a very strong color and can easily overwhelm a space if you don’t use it correctly. It’s important to find the right shade of black that will work well with the other colors in your room. You also need to make sure that your black paint is properly sealed so that it doesn’t chip or fade over time.

If you’re interested in a dramatic look, painting your walls black is a great option. Below we’ll walk you through how to use black paint for walls. If you live in the Boise, Idaho area, this is a great option for your home’s interior painting needs.  

1. The different shades of black paint available

There are a surprisingly wide range of shades of black paint available for you. Whether you’re looking for a deep, rich black or a light, airy black, there’s sure to be a shade that’s perfect for you. Some blacks lean towards blue or purple, while others have warm undertones of brown or red. And depending on the brand, some blacks can even have a sparkly finish. So if you’re looking to add a touch of darkness to your home, don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades of black paint until you find the perfect one for you.

2. How to use black paint in your home

Once you’ve found the perfect shade of black, it’s time to start thinking about how to use it in your home. If you’re looking for a dramatic look, painting an entire room black can be a great option. But if you want something more subtle, you could try painting just one wall black or using black paint as an accent color. Black paint can also be used to create a moody and atmospheric look in your home, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

3. How to seal black paint

Some black paints come with a seal already included, while others do not. If your black paint does not have a seal, you will need to add one yourself in order to protect the paint and keep it looking its best. There are a few different ways that you can seal black paint.

One option is to use clear polyurethane. This will provide a durable seal that will resist scratches and fading. Another option is to use resin-based sealers. These sealers will create a high-gloss finish that is perfect for accentuating the deep color of the black paint. Whichever sealer you choose, be sure to follow the instructions carefully in order to get the best results.

4. Different ways to decorate with black 

One of the best things about black paint is that it can be used in a variety of ways to create different looks. For example, black paint can be used to create a dramatic and elegant look in a room, or it can be used to add a touch of sophistication to your space. Here are some different ways to decorate with black paint:

  • Use black paint to create a focal point in a room. You can use it to highlight architectural features or to make a statement piece of furniture stand out.
  • Create an accent wall. An accent wall is a great way to add some visual interest to a room, and black paint is the perfect way to create one.
  • Use it to add some drama to a room. Black paint can be used on all four walls of a room to create a dramatic look, or it can be used on just one wall for a more subtle effect.
  • Line your shelves or cabinets. Black paint can be used to create a sharp and clean look on shelves or cabinets.

Whether you want to make a big impact or just add a little bit of intrigue, black wall paint is the perfect way to do it.

5. Black wall ideas for your home

It’s elegant, mysterious, and commanding. It evokes a sense of power and strength, making it the perfect choice for creating a dramatic statement in your home. Whether you use it to accentuate an existing feature or to create a completely new look, black paint is sure to add impact. When you’re selecting black paint for your home, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, consider the undertone of the black paint. If you want a truly black hue, look for a paint with a blue undertone. For a softer black shade, choose a black with a brown or green undertone. Secondly, think about the finish you want. A glossy finish will create a more sophisticated look, while a matte finish will give your black paint a more modern edge. Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment! Black paint is surprisingly versatile and can be used in many different ways. Get creative and see what works best for your space.

Conclusion on how to use black paint for walls

Using black paint for walls is a great way to add drama and sophistication to your home. When selecting black paint for your space, keep in mind the undertone of the paint and the finish you want to achieve. And don’t be afraid to experiment! With its versatile nature, black paint can be used in many different ways to create a variety of looks.

If you’re looking to add some black paint to your home, contact Boise Home Painting. We’ll work with you to select the perfect shade of black and help you create the look you’ve been dreaming of. Call us today for your free estimate! We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle with interior and exterior painting!

 

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Categories Exterior Painting

Exterior Paint Sheen & Finish Recommendations For Your Home

Exterior Paint Sheen

When choosing the best exterior paint sheen for your home, there’s more to it than just how it looks. It should be an important component in the paint-selection process as it can make or break the longevity of your paint and exterior surface. Doing your homework on the best sheen for exterior paint can really pay off in the long run. Read on to learn how to choose an exterior paint sheen for your specific climate as well as the benefits of using the correct finish. 

Before we go further, if you live in the Boise, Idaho area and need help painting the exterior of your home, we can help! We’ll give you a free estimate. In fact, we can even help you choose the best color for your home!

What Type of Exterior Paint Finish is Best? 

Paint sheen describes the glossiness or flatness of the paint once it dries. Some are better for painting trim and small details while others work well for siding. You need a finish that will protect your home from destructive UV rays which can cause your paint to peel, fade, or crack prematurely. Boise is known for hot, dry summers, freezing winters, and lots of rain in the fall and spring. For the best long-term results, you’ll need exterior paint made with high-quality resins, additives, and pigments. Finding the best paint sheen for your home will save you from repainting for years to come. Choosing the correct paint sheen has a big impact on how long your paint will last on exterior surfaces such as trim, doors, and siding. There are basically five different types of paint sheens that are used in exterior painting. Let’s go over each one so you’ll know when it’s appropriate to use them and when there’s a better choice. 

  • Flat or Matte Paint Finish 

While flat exterior paint finishes are used quite often, they aren’t the best choice for exterior projects. Because flat paint is porous, it’s more susceptible to fading and rotting from mildew problems. A finish with a shinier sheen is more protective, easier to clean, and aesthetically more pleasing. For this reason, flat or matte paint may be an option to consider for exterior walls only but not trim or doors. Because flat paint has little or no sheen, it’s excellent at concealing imperfections in your siding or wood. 

  • Eggshell Paint Finish 

Eggshell is considered the best sheen for exterior paint when it comes to painting the body of your home. It’s the perfect happy medium, landing between flat and satin finishes. Not too flat or too shiny, eggshell looks great on a variety of siding types. Because it’s easy to clean and provides a

pleasant appearance, it’s the preferred finish for most homeowners. If you’re repainting your house and are looking for a finish that can conceal small imperfections while being durable and looking nice, go with eggshell paint. 

  • Satin Paint Finish 

Satin paint has a bit more sheen than eggshell which makes it more durable, easy to clean, and holds up against abrasion. Satin and eggshell are fairly similar in popularity when it comes to exterior paint and are both excellent options. It’s a great choice for your trim if you want a glossy look without going overboard. Satin is exceptionally nice if you live in a hot, sunny climate like the Treasure Valley. The extra sheen makes a big difference when it comes to protecting your home from the UV rays.

  • Semi-Gloss Paint Finish 

Semi-gloss paint has noticeably more shine to it than the finishes mentioned above. This makes it perfect for surfaces that require frequent cleaning and upkeep. Not only is it easy to clean, but it protects against moisture and is more durable than satin. It’s important to note that the shinier the finish, the more imperfections you will be able to see. Semi-gloss is perfect for trim, shutters, garage doors, railings, and window sills. 

  • High-Gloss Paint Finish 

High gloss is too shiny to use on your exterior siding but is perfect when used to highlight architectural details, doors, and trim. Its beautiful shine can really bring the wow factor to your home when used appropriately. Its durable sheen adds richness to any color. Any part of your exterior that might get touched on a regular basis can benefit from a high-gloss finish. This includes window frames, decorative fixtures, shutters, decorative trim, and more. 

Glossy paint finishes may also be an option if your exterior will need to be washed frequently. For example, if you live in an area where dust can be a problem or have adventurous children. However, the shininess factor has a tendency to spotlight every imperfection which still makes eggshell a better overall choice. 

What Sheen should you Use for Exterior Paint?

Before you determine which paint sheen to use, consider what surface you are painting. Keep in mind that lower sheen paints such as satin or eggshell are often used for the body of the house while higher sheen paints like semi-gloss work best for accents, trim, and doors. Choosing the proper sheen for different outdoor surfaces will help you create a beautiful look and get the most from your paint. 

Satin or Semi-Gloss for Exterior Trim? 

When you’re talking about exterior trim, semi-gloss or high-gloss will always reign supreme. Satin is the preferred choice for exterior siding or walls but lacks the durability for areas like trim, doors, and shutters.

What is the Longest Lasting Exterior Paint? 

Painting the exterior of your home is expensive and time-consuming. Since it’s quite an undertaking, you want your paint job to last as long as possible. You don’t want to have to repeat the process over and over again. The sheen you choose plays a big part in longevity but what kind of exterior paint lasts the longest? 

Acrylic paint is the most durable with its ability to withstand fading from the sun, damage from the elements, and has overall great flexibility. This paint is water-based but has an added acrylic binding agent. Use acrylic paint for wood and aluminum siding, stucco, plaster, and drywall. 

What is the Best Time to Paint Your House Exterior? 

Painting the exterior of your home isn’t the type of job that you can do effectively any time of the year. Weather can play into the success of your paint job quite a bit. With that said, early summer and early fall are the ideal times for exterior painting. It’s always best to aim for a day that’s not too hot or too cold. The paint will dry the best when it’s not too humid. Avoid rainy days and always make sure all the surfaces you’ll be painting are completely dry.

Choosing the Best Exterior Paint Sheen For Your Home Conclusion

If you’re ready to upgrade your home’s exterior paint but still have questions about the best sheen, contact Boise Home Painting. Our professional painters have years of experience helping homeowners choose not only the best colors for their exterior but the best finish as well. We serve the entire Treasure Valley including Meridian, Nampa, and Eagle, and pride ourselves in treating each paint job like it’s our own. Click here to get your free estimate!

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Categories Painting

What Is The Best Deck Paint?

Best Deck Paint

A fresh coat of paint is always the most cost-effective way of making something look new again. But when it comes to updating your deck, how do you know what’s the best deck paint to use? In this article, we’ll walk you through the best way to repaint your deck while also sharing with you what we have discovered to be the best paint and stain for your deck. We’ve evaluated several deck paints on the market and ranked them according to ease of application, cleanup, sheen, and durability. So, whether you want to go with a traditional deck color or want your deck to be a little more bold and unique, we’re here to ensure you choose the best deck paint for your project. 

List of Best Deck Paint and Stain 

If you’re lucky enough to have a deck, you’ll want to take proper care of it to keep it looking beautiful for seasonal gatherings or family time. For something this important, you don’t just want to pick up the first paint or stain you spot at the store. We’ve done our homework and have compiled a list of the very best deck paint and stains out there: 

  • Best Color Selection Deck Paint

Behr Premium Low-Lustre Porch & Patio Floor Paint

This deck paint is ideal for exterior applications such as patios, porches, basements, and decks. It’s resistant to fading, scuffing, peeling, cracking, and mildew. The best part is, it’s available in custom color matching! 

  • Best Paint for Wood Deck Railing

Montage Signature Eco-Friendly Paint

Offering superior coverage and protection, this paint is perfect for your specialty finishes. Extremely versatile, Montage Signature is the #1 paint choice for all your needs. 

  • Best Deck Stain

Sikkens Transparent Matte Natural OIl-Based Stain

You’ll get amazing and long-lasting results with this one-coat application stain. It penetrates deep into the wood to protect against the Boise summer heat and frigid winter temperatures. You’ll love how it allows the natural grain of your deck or furniture to shine through. It’s a bit pricey but makes up for it in longevity.

  • Best Durable Deck Paint

Behr Premium Advanced Deckover

If you’re looking for durability, this paint is an excellent choice. It comes in a variety of color options, is applied easily, and holds up extremely well against the elements. It’s a thicker consistency of paint which means it will take longer to dry. You can use this paint on composite wood, wood, and concrete. 

  • Best Paint For Old Wood

Kilz Latex Floor Paint L573611

Appropriate for all previously primed or painted surfaces including wood and masonry, this paint has a low-luster finish that applies smoothly and evenly. It also can be used on trim, siding, and trellises. You’ll appreciate that it’s resistant to fading, scuffing, cracking, and peeling. 

Modern Deck Paint Colors 

Updating the color of your deck won’t only give it new style but can also give it extended life. Stain and paint protect your wood from rotting while helping it stay clean and smooth. We’ve compiled a list of the perfect colors to enhance your outdoor space and give your deck a makeover: 

  • Black 

When your goal is to add a stark contrast between your patio furniture or your home’s exterior paint color, black is the perfect choice. A solid acrylic black deck stain will completely cover any previous deck stain that remains. This will also add an extra layer of protection from scuffing, water damage, and the sun. 

  • Grey 

Tones of gray seem to be all the rage when it comes to exterior paint color. This holds true for decks and patios as well. A muted gray deck paint will refresh your outdoor space to a stylish look your friends and family will enjoy for years to come on those beautiful Boise evenings. 

  • Whitewash 

If you want to showcase the texture and grain of your deck, whitewashing is an option you should consider. Unlike solid stains or paints, whitewashing leaves portions of wood exposed, showing the imperfections and personality of your deck. 

  • Slate Grey 

Slate is a dark enough tone to show a nice contrast between your deck furniture and landscaping while not being as stark as black. It lends to a trendy, modern vibe, especially when paired with a light oak railing.

  • Red 

Shades of dark, brick red are perfect for a colonial feel and always add personality to your backyard. Red especially pops when paired with a bright white deck paint. 

  • Redwood 

We often think of redwood deck stains when picturing a traditional outdoor deck. This color goes well with the surrounding greenery of your landscaping as well as nearly any exterior home paint color. 

  • Two-Tone 

A deck with a two-tone pattern is visually appealing and unique. Try using one color as a border or customize a design that works for your space. 

  • Clear 

If you’re hoping to preserve the natural look of your wood deck, a clear deck stain is for you. However, clear stain isn’t a good idea if your deck was previously painted and your old stain is lingering. 

Picking a Deck Paint 

It’s quite possible that the easiest part of painting a deck is the application process. Choosing the right paint or stain can prove to be a very difficult part of the project. With so many different deck paints on the market, it can be overwhelming for anyone. 

Keep in mind how important it is to purchase an exterior paint that’s specifically created for decks and horizontal surfaces. Regular house paints are made to cover vertical surfaces where water and rain won’t sit. Decking is different and will accommodate puddles of water. Be certain the label on the paint you choose specifies that it can be used on horizontal surfaces.

Best Deck Paint Brands 

When you’re in the market for deck paint for an upcoming home improvement project, it’s always smart to select a brand you can trust. The best deck paints can stand up to harsh and extreme weather conditions. Wind, rain, and extreme fluctuation in heat can really do a number on your deck. Below is a list of the top brands we recommend because of their reputation for consistent high-quality results: 

1. Sherwin Williams

If you’ve ever used Sherwin Williams paint after using a different paint brand, you know why it’s rated number one in customer satisfaction for interior and exterior paints. They offer a large variety of affordable outdoor paints in different colors and sheens. 

2. Kilz 

Kilz has been providing Americans with quality primer and painting products for over four decades. They offer a product that combines both primer and paint in one to give you beautiful and effective results while cutting your application time in half. 

3. Benjamin Moore

The name Benjamin Moore has always been associated with quality paints and stains, providing both durability and style when spending time with loved ones outdoors. 

4. Behr 

Behr makes highly rated, award-winning paints, stains, and more that deliver superior value at every price point. With Behr, everyone can transform their space with the colors they love. 

5. Rust-Oleum 

Rust-Oleum is a reputable company that specializes in outdoor protective paints. Their products create long-lasting results for both residential and commercial customers alike. 

Best Places to Buy Deck Paint in Boise 

There are several paint supply stores in the Treasure Valley that offer all the tools you would need for painting a deck. However, we’re giving you a list of our top three paint store choices: 

–Sherwin Williams 

–Home Depot 

–Rodda Paint Store 

Most of these paint stores offer several locations for your convenience.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need to Paint Your Deck 

Before you start painting your deck, you’ll need to measure it by multiplying the length by the width. This will help you determine how much paint you’ll need to buy. If you already have paint on hand, check that it hasn’t dried out and is still usable. Here are the materials we recommend you have on hand: 

  1. Exterior paint formulated for decks, patios, and porches 2. Multi-surface primer and sealer 
  2. Paintbrush 
  3. Roller 
  4. Pressure washer 
  5. Deck cleaner 
  6. Extension pole 
  7. Sponge 
  8. 5-gallon bucket 

Deck Paint Drying Time 

As a general rule of thumb, your paint or stain should be dry within a 1-2 hour timeframe. We don’t recommend walking on it though for at least 5-6 hours. But remember that weather conditions can greatly affect drying time.

If you’re painting on a day with high humidity and cooler temperatures, you will need to wait longer for proper curing. 

How Does Weather Affect Paint? 

Humidity and temperature can actually have quite an effect on exterior paint. Boise is an area where you can experience some pretty intense temperature fluctuations. When the temp outside goes from around 100 degrees in the summer to 10 degrees in the winter, your paint can expand in the heat and contract in the cold. As the surface underneath expands and contracts, your paint will crack and peel. 

Ultraviolet light from the hot Boise sun can also do a number on your exterior paint. When it comes to siding, your patio, or patio furniture, areas with warmer climates deal with paint prematurely fading. Making sure you protect your deck and exterior siding with paint specifically formulated for the outdoors will prolong the life of your paint job. 

Should You Use Paint vs. Stain? 

The number one determining factor when it comes to going with paint or stain will generally be preference. Which look do you prefer more? However, paint is thicker and tends to be more durable. It helps to note that stains are designed for use on wood surfaces that are bare or haven’t been treated. While stain does have color, it’s designed to allow the natural wood grain to show through. Most deck stains also include a sealer product that protects the wood from exposure to the elements. 

Paint will conceal the wood grain which means it will also hide any blemishes or damage points in your deck. If you’ve had to replace boards in your deck that don’t match the others, the paint will restore a more uniform look.

If however, your deck is prone to humidity you will have to think about preventing mold and mildew. If this is the case, stain will be your best option. The stain will penetrate your deck wood to form a solid coating on top, unlike paint. While Boise doesn’t receive nearly the amounts of rain as other regions of the US, it can still rain a fair amount in the spring and fall. Consider what look you’re going for, your climate, as well as the current state of your deck to determine if paint or stain is right for you.

How to Paint a Deck 

Once you’ve picked your deck paint or stain, here are the steps to successfully painting a deck along with some helpful tips:

  1. Wash Down the Deck 

Your deck must be completely clean before applying paint or stain. Even if your deck is new, it still needs to be thoroughly scrubbed and rinsed down as your first step. You can find several options for deck cleaning products at your local hardware store. Choose an all-purpose cleaner that will remove dirt, grime, and debris. If mold or mildew is a problem on your existing deck, purchase a cleaner containing mildewcide before painting or staining. You may be tempted to use a power washer to aid in the cleaning process, However, the high pressure may actually damage the wood by digging chunks out of it. A garden hose with a jet nozzle works well to get the job done without being so abrasive. 

  1. Sand and Scrape the Deck 

Any deck paint that is peeling or bubbling will need to be removed before you can start repainting. Any rough or jagged areas need to be sanded until smooth. Using a wire brush, use large strokes to loosen any dislodged paint. The wire brush should make quick work of most loose paint but you’ll need to follow up with a paint scraper. A flat scraper that resembles a putty knife will be the best tool to remove any remaining loose paint. Be careful not to push the scraper too hard and gauge the surface. A pulling motion will be more effective and less destructive. 

You may be tempted at this point to skip the important step of sanding. But scraping rarely gets rid of all existing deck paint. In order to have a cohesive look and feel, sanding is necessary to smooth out the edges between the bare wood and any remaining paint. 

  1. Apply Paint or Stain to the Deck

Before popping open your chosen paint or stain, tape off any areas of your home or garage you don’t want painted. We recommend using a roller with an extension pole for convenient painting while standing up. It’s also handy to have some various sizes of paintbrushes around for those spots a roller can’t get too. 

Do your best to paint every angle of your decking. The more surface you can cover, the more it’s protected. Pay special attention to paint the underside of your decking along with all reachable sides. Sealing your deck will prevent mold and mildew from growing and add to its longevity.

Can you Paint Composite Decking? 

Composite decking, which is the same as Trex decking, doesn’t accept paint naturally like a real wood deck. It’s made of plastic film that when mixed with wood fibers, creates a resilient material more durable than decking that is 100% plastic. 

If you’re going to paint or stain composite decking, stain will work better than paint but might not last as long. Since paint and stain won’t adhere as easily to composite decking, you’ll need to scuff up its surface before application. Once the composite has been roughed up by sandpaper, paint or stain will adhere much better with a gritty surface to grip onto.

How to Remove Decking Paint? 

Stripping your deck of paint can be a messy job. There are several different stripping products on the market you can use. These gel-like substances when applied to your decking, will soften the existing stain or paint. Ideally, the stripping product will be rinsed away and take the original coating with it. The problem is that the stripping agent will likely need to be reapplied over stubborn areas and there will be scraping and scrubbing involved. Some strippers are meant to work on stain while others will work for paint or stain. If you’re going to take on this project, choose the stripper that best fits your needs. 

Can You Stain Over Paint? 

Yes, you can stain over paint but we don’t recommend it for a project as large as a deck. Stain over paint is more suitable for smaller projects like refinishing furniture or woodworking. Depending on the color of the paint and the stain you’re working with, the result will be a lacquered look. In most instances, if your deck was originally coated with paint, we recommend repainting instead of applying stain. 

The Best Deck Paint in 2022 Conclusion 

A fresh coat of paint is a great way to update your deck while giving it added protection at the same time. But before you jump in, be certain you’re choosing the best paint or stain to ensure long-term results. If you live in the Treasure Valley and have further questions about deck painting, interior, or exterior painting, contact Boise Home Painting. Our team of professionals will be happy to answer any questions or give you a free estimate for your current project. Click here to get your free estimate!

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