The Best Deck Paint For Old Wood Deck

What can you do to fight back against time? It’s up to you! You can choose to age with dignity or spend the summer getting on your knees applying a new coat of paint.

Luckily, after weeks of research, I’ve found the best deck paint for old wood. They have amazing reviews and provide a beautiful finish that will last up to 10 years!

My favorite feature is that they don’t peel like many other paints on the market. With our wood deck paint reviews, you can rest assured your deck will be looking great for years to come (and not peeling)!

In a hurry…don’t worry.

Best Deck Paint For Old Wood

• KILZ L573611 Latex Floor Paint—(Best deck paint for old decks)
• Montage Signature Interior/Exterior Paint – (Best Environment Friendly)
• TotalBoat TotalTread Non-Skid Deck Paint— (Best for Stairs and Walkways)
• Rust-Oleum 206999 Marine Topside Paint— (Best Weather Resistant)
• Thompson’s Waterseal TH.043841-16— (Budget Option)
• FIXALL Skid Grip Anti-Slip Paint – (Best For Wooden Pool Deck)
• INSL-X SU092209A-01 Sure Step— (Best Acrylic Paint for Wooden Decks)
• Rust-Oleum 319176 RockSolid 20X Deck Resurfacer – (Best paint for weathered deck

Best Deck paint for Old Decks (Updated List)

We’ve put together this list of the best paint for wood deck floor based on hours of research into real customer reviews, expert advice, and my own experience as a homeowner.

1. Best Deck Paint for Old Decks– KILZ L573611 Latex Floor Paint

If you want the most durable deck paint, then KILZ Latex Paint is the way to go. It’s easy to apply and maintain, which makes it perfect! Not only does this type of formula resist wearing down or peeling but also fading, crackling and scuffing. In short, there will be no need for future repainting!

The durable acrylic outdoor paint for wood has a mold-resistant film and withstands adverse weather conditions, so it can be used on porches or patios.  

The paint is suitable for all previously painted surfaces, including woods, masonry, and previously primed metal surfaces. It can be used on sidings, trellises, trim, and offers a finish with a low luster. 

The floor paint can be applied evenly on floors and delivers a silver-gray shade. The formula dries up quickly, so you can reapply in four to six hours if necessary. 

This paint is available in a can (1-gallon) and should be applied using a quality ⅜ to ½ -inch roller, sprayer, or a nylon/polyester brush.  

What’s more, the formula can cover an area of 300 square feet on rough surfaces and 400 square feet on smooth wood surfaces. This paint is ranked high, and the company has taken pride in delivering quality patio deck paints for 40 years. 

PROS

A long lasting deck paint that’s easy to maintain and proves resistant to peeling, scuffing, cracking, and fading even in harsh conditions
This formula provides a low-luster finish.
The best paint for old deck
The floor paint can be applied on various surfaces, including porches, sidings, floors, etc. 
You can apply with a quality roller, brush, or sprayer
It covers a significant area of about 300 to 400 square feet

CONS

Customers have raised complaints about contrasting colors when applied on the patio.
The paint gets a bit clear as it dries

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2. Best Exterior Deck Paint—Montage Signature Interior/Exterior Paint

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly paint suitable for use on weathered wood floors and decks, look no further than this water-based low VOC product. It comes in 18 pleasing gray tones with earthy undertones, so you’re sure of getting a perfect fit!

The Montage Signature paint is a great option for those who want to keep their old deck as environmentally friendly as possible. Not only does it resist mold, mildew and damaging UV rays but this eco-friendly outdoor deck paint also offers plenty of protection against them!

With one gallon, you’ll be able to cover up 300 sq. feet of indoor or outdoor floors. Being a water-based formula, you can easily it with soapy water.

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3. Best for Stairs and Walkways—TotalBoat TotalTread

Your deck is more likely to wear out when exposed to foot traffic, ultra-violet rays, and harsh weather conditions. The Total Boat non-skid paint can come in handy to prevent damages caused by spills, rain, dew, spray, or excessive use of a washdown hose. 

The TotalTread bonds are better as they comprise wax texturing agents such as propyltex and polyurethane. This formula is a perfect cure for your damaged deck and can be applied with ease and convenience using a brush or paint roller. 

Simply remove the old paint and mix it adequately before applying for an even textured finish. Besides, this non-abrasive paint is anti-slip, so your safety is guaranteed at all times. It also provides optimum traction and prevents particles from clogging.  

That said, you just need to dab a little with a brush to keep the surface clean. The paint is best used for decks, steps, docks, ramps, poles, cabin tops, and more. You can apply two coats for a firm grip or three coats for a more aggressive grip. 

There are different colors available, so you can choose whichever is best for you. First, however, you need to make sure that you’re choosing a color that matches your surroundings. 

PROS

Excellent paint with anti-slip properties 
The formula dries up quickly and can be applied with ease
It exhibits a durable finish
This paint incorporates robust qualities
This non-skid paint is available in gallons and quarts
Satisfaction guaranteed

CON

There is a possibility that this paint will hold dirt or mildew.

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4. Best Weather Resistant—Rust-Oleum 206999 Topside Paint

Rust-Oleum is one of the famous veterans in the paint industry. It has been there since sliced bread, and their product deserves a glance when anyone searches for paint for wood decks.   

Since 1921, the Marine Topside paint takes pride as the prime deck paint from all the products they have launched. It’s available in different colors, so you can customize your deck by incorporating unique colors on. 

You can find the paint in black, gray, green, sand beige, and in all forms of white. And because this formula is oil-based, rest assured of an excellent leveling quality and enhanced application. 

Besides, it’s a long lasting deck paint that protects the surface from abrasion, ultra-violet rays, and extreme weather conditions, making it a great durable option. 

What’s more, the formula dries pretty fast within a few hours. You will also love its smooth finish and luster retention, which significantly revives the deck area.  

PROS

This oil-based formula is highly flexible
Works perfectly in reviving old weathered wood
The paint is available in a wide range of colors, including all shades of white.
It’s compatible with various surfaces such as wood, fiberglass, and metal 
The formula shows resistance to UV-rays
The application is dead simple with a roller
The paint rolls down quickly and smoothly  
It creates a durable coating that takes up to a month to cure completely, after which it becomes resistant to scratches.

CONS

The paint peels off easily after a few weeks of application
The paint loses luster, and the color turns grayish in less than six months of application

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5. Best Budget Choice Paint—Thompson’s Waterseal TH.043841-16

Thompson’s WaterSeal is another veteran in the paint and sealing industry. It’s been operative since the early 1920s and has emphasized resisting water damage in exterior areas from the very beginning. For this reason, the company focuses on waterproofing deck paints. 

This waterproofing stain is available in six shades and adds the finishing touch to your old weathered wood. They include woodland cedar, maple brown, coastal gray, acorn brown, sequoia red, and harvest gold.   

In addition to making your deck visually appealing, the paint also excels in boosting the durability of this surface. It also offers protection against mildew and UV rays. In addition, the advanced polymers make the shade even more resistant to fade. 

That said, you can either apply the paint on dry or damp wood, whichever that’s convenient to you. The stain also dries up within two hours, so you won’t have to wait longer before you can use your deck. 

The best part is that you can apply a single coat and use it for up to five years before repainting. Unsurprisingly, this single coating will last up to 15 years when applied on a fence.  

PROS

This stain comes in six solid shades, including golden
The paint offers protection against mildew and UV-rays
It can be used either in a dry or damp wood
The paint incorporates advanced polymers that show resistance to fading
The formula can cover a significant area of up to 400 square feet of exterior space

CONS

The stain starts showing signs of peeling and flaking in less than a year
The paint becomes too slippery when wet, exposing you at risk of sliding over when it rains

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6. Best For Wooden Pool Deck – FIXALL Skid Grip Anti-Slip Paint

Skid Grip provides a slip-resistant surface designed to beautify your weathered deck, asphalt, and other surfaces.

Skid Grip’s Anti-Slip Paint is the perfect solution for busy, high-traffic decks that need an extra layer of protection.

The 100% acrylic resin formula provides increased performance with reduced peeling or flaking. Besides, it reduces oxidation, so your anti-slip deck will stay looking new for years to come.

Skid Grip Anti-Slip Paint is a cost-effective way to enhance the landscape of any project. You can choose from 7 colors ranging in textures and finishes to match any design style or color scheme. It also comes with two bases, so you don’t run out of design options!

FIXALL paint offers superior adhesion and can be applied with either a brush or paint roller. Cleanup is simple, as it only takes soap water for the best results! One gallon covers up to 80 square feet of any wood material – depending on porosity levels.

You need to put on two coats of paint for the best results.

PROS

100 % Pure Acrylic
Slip and Slide Resistant Surface
Superior Wood Adhesion
Color Fade Resistant
Exceeds ADA Standards for Slip

CONS

The instructions should be better

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7. Best Acrylic Paint for Wooden Decks—INSL-X SU092209A Coating Paint

INSL-X is one of the primers and paints reputable brands. It has manufactured many paints, and one of them is the Sure Step Anti-slip that helps keep your surfaces safe. In other words, its finish prevents skids, preventing accidents. 

Besides preventing slipping, this paint also protects you and your family’s feet from any abrasive surfaces. In other words, the Sure Step Anti-slip paint resists abrasion, making sure there’s proper texture on every surface. 

The best of all is that this paint comes in eight different shades—saddle, tile red, desert sand, light gray, pine green, saddle brown, clear, grey pearl, and white. This means that you have various options to choose from—whether neutral or transparent colors. 

If you are looking for paint that can fill up gaps and seal weathered wood, this paint is perfect for you. Finally, it takes a short time to dry, so you won’t wait until long before your stain gets to dry completely. 

PROS

You’ll get to choose from eight various shades. 
The Sure Step Anti-slip paint is anti-slip, can resist skids, and prevents abrasion.
You can use the Sure Step Anti-slip paint for both interior and exterior 
It won’t be too long before your paint can dry and fills and seals any cracks on your old wood

CONS

Some customers have stated that the paint didn’t work as advertised on Amazon.
A couple of customers have also noted that the paint doesn’t stick properly.

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8. Best Paint for Weathered Deck: Rust-Oleum 319176 RockSolid 20X Deck Resurfacer

For those looking to restore their weathered wood deck, this is the perfect paint.

It’s formulated with a textured finish that delivers just enough matte look. Even better, it does that without being too distracting or unrealistic-looking.

The thick formula cover imperfections by smoothing over cracks. As a result, it creates an impermeable layer, so you never have any water damage on top!

Many deck owners love how it eliminates nasty cracks and nail holes without doing the hard work. The textured, high-build formula will fill 1/4″ deep scratches on wood or between planks.

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

When you need to clean and prime your deck, RockSolid has the perfect solution. No more stripping or sanding. Just apply the cleaner/primer combo for a quality finish that will last all season long!

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Outdoor Deck Paints Comparison Table

What Should I Consider Before Buying the Best Paint for Decks

It’s essential that you know some of the features you should look for when buying deck paint for old decks.

Let’s get started;

1. Thickness of the Coating 

You’ll need to know the thickness of the coating before purchasing any deck paint for weathered wood. This is because most deck paints have varying thicknesses, and failing to check might result in disappointments when you get home with your new deck paint. 

Paints with labels 4,10 and 20 are thicker than the ordinary paint you might find at your local store. This thickness is vital when you need to hide any cracks, bubbles, or scruffs that give your deck a terrible look you don’t want. 

However, you must note that thick deck paints also come with some shortcomings. For example, they are always more challenging to apply than more miniature thick deck paints. Therefore, you might need extra brushes to ensure you work on your deck effectively. 

2. Horizontal and Vertical Surfaces

We get it—it can be a nightmare choosing the best paint for old wood, mainly when dealing with vertical surfaces. Granted, outdoor paint can withstand harsh elements, but only when applied to vertical surfaces.

However, for old deck paint, make you pick one that’s meant for horizontal surfaces only. The paint can should say that it is good for horizontal surfaces and exterior decks. Other considerations include deck wood type and the desired finish.

3. Area Coverage Per Gallon 

On many occasions, most homeowners purchase more deck paint than they need or sometimes buy less than halting the paint restoration process. 

This is why considering the area coverage per gallon will make it easier for you to purchase the right amount of paint. 

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

For example, a 4x restoration paint will cover about 80 square feet. However, this coverage will reduce for more thick counterparts like 10x and 20x. 

4. The Color

There are many best deck paint colors you can choose from—whether painting concrete surfaces or wood surfaces. 

Avoid going for colors that clash with the nearby landscaping—instead, use a color wheel to pick the right color contrary to the overall landscaping shade. 

For example, the Rustoleum brand provides its customers with over 60 shades (in textured and standard finishes) they can choose from. 

While the Anvil brand has fewer shades to choose from, it has one of the best color retentions. 

In a nutshell, knowing the color you are going for will help you make a rational decision once you reach your local store. 

5. The Ease of Application

Generally, deck paints are easy to apply, and this is because most of them dry quickly and come with even coverage. 

Additionally, most deck paints come with second coat provisions, especially on the 3rd and 4th days after the first coat was applied. 

However, please note that the ease of applying the deck paints will depend on the level of preparation and weather conditions at the time. 

You will get better results if you apply your deck paints when temperatures range between 50 and 90 degrees. 

You must ensure that your painting area is free from substances, including stain, grease, and clean to ensure proper adherence of your deck paint to the surface. 

6. Surface Sheen

Surface finishes may vary depending on the number of ingredients used in developing the product. Such include:

Eggshell

Eggshells comprise about 10 percent sheen and deliver a soft, pleasant finish. Its low luster helps to conceal the deck’s flaws. And because dirt accumulates on this finish, it’s best applied in enclosed decks that are not subjected to wind and dust. 

Satin

Satin is best used for exterior wood surfaces because of its reduced sheen that is about 30 percent. This surface sheen hides a lot of flaws and is easy to maintain. Just a simple sweeping is enough to get rid of the dirt. 

Semi-gloss

Another easy-to-clean surface is the semi-gloss. It’s also referred to as enamel and comprises 70 percent sheen. This type of surface sheen is ideal for doors, shutters, and trim doors. Check out other paints for baseboard and trims.

High gloss

Finally, the high gloss surface comprises 85 percent sheen. It’s pretty simple to clean as dirt blows off on its own. This surface sheen helps highlight flaws in a wood, making it ideal for new deck boards. 

Painting over high gloss paint is a good skill to have as well.

7. Type of Outdoor Deck Paint

Another critical factor to consider when choosing deck paints for old wood is the type of paint, whether:

• Oil-based Paint
• Acrylic
• Water-based deck paint.

Oil-based paint lasts longer, can withstand higher temperatures and are shiny. 

Most of the deck paints you’ll come across are 100 percent acrylic, meaning that they can minimize the chances of cracking during extreme temperatures. Going for this type of paint if you come from areas with higher temperatures will make a lot of sense. 

While oil-based paints can last longer under harsh conditions, water-based paints are equally good under normal conditions. Therefore, depending on your needs, choose the right type of deck paint.

8. Type of Wood

Some woods, like redwood and cedar, are resistant to damage from moisture or insects. But they are usually expensive. Most decks or exterior surfaces are made from wood that has been treated with chemicals to keep them from rotting.

When dealing with a treated wood deck, wait at least six months before painting to allow the chemicals to evaporate.

How Do You Paint an Old Wooden Decks? 

Now that you know the best paint for old deck and some of the factors you should consider when purchasing a new deck paint, how do you paint your old wood deck?

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to repaint your deck;

Materials and Tools

• Pressure washer
• Exterior-grade deck restore paint 
• Paint scraper
• Paint thinner 
• Paintbrushes
• Paint rollers
• Sandpaper  
• Paint stripper

Step 1: Repair All Damage

When you want to paint an old deck, the first step is to check for any damages and fix them. Start by repairing splintered wood on your deck.

Next, you need to check the pillars and footings to confirm that they are in good condition. And because areas with grass or dirt will quickly rot, take time to inspect them. 

Please replace them immediately before beginning to paint your old wood decks if they are damaged or rotted boards. You may also want to tighten any loose screws or the ones that may have shifted.  

The railings are also important—ensure that they are strong and free from rust. If there are any damages, please repair or replace them immediately. 

Step 2: Strip old deck paint

For a previously painted deck, strip off the old paint first. This stage is especially critical when you can’t remember the last stain you used on the same wood deck. (Here’s the best paint remover for wood deck).

Additionally, you may not want to skip this process, especially when you want to use a stain or transparent paint.

Step 3: Clean Your Deck 

The next step is to clean your deck adequately. A wood cleaner will get the job done, but a power washer does better for cleaning built-up dirt from your decking boards. Remember, you’re not only targeting the dust but also the entire deck. 

However, you need to remove any loose paint before using the pressure washer not to harm the environment. 

Clean up your decking boards by spraying. Pay close attention to high-traffic areas such as stairs or pathways. Wash any boards neighboring the garden as they are more vulnerable to accumulating dirt.  

Step 4: Prime

Priming is a critical step in painting but also a choice. However, if you intend to use your deck for an extended period, you should consider priming your decking boards. This will also eliminate porous surfaces for an enhanced painting experience. 

If most of your decking boards are damaged, prime them to regulate your paint coverage. If you’re using stain for your final coat, go ahead and skip the priming process. 

Step 5: Paint

Once you stripped the old paint, cleaned, and primed your deck, you now need to start painting your deck. It’s recommended that you begin painting the upper parts like the railing and the balusters before moving on to other sections. 

A minimum of two coats is ideal for any exterior wood surface.

Remember to paint in between deck boards as well. Here is a trick for painting between deck boards fast and effectively.

Best Old Deck Paint Brands

It’s no secret that the best-rated deck paint is a hot commodity. And the right brand is all you need to give your wooden deck a new look.

Kilz

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

Known for their durability and quality deck paint, Kilz paints are perfect for sealing decks and wood furniture. The Brand uses a tear-resistant formula that provides excellent coverage even on rough surfaces.

Sherwin-Williams

Sherwin-Williams are famous for its top ranking as the most customer satisfied paint company.

When you need a fresh coat of paint for your wooden deck or patio, Sherwin-Williams has got the perfect shade. With Sherwin-Williams deck paint, you can help protect your outdoor space. It’s like armor for wood, metal, and vinyl surfaces that are durable, fade-resistant, and easy to use.

Benjamin Moore

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

Today, they’ve grown to become one of the world’s largest paints providers for residential and commercial applications.

In 2018, Benjamin Moore celebrated its 100th year as an innovative, customer-focused business that offers quality deck paint at competitive prices.

Read: Benjamin moore regal select vs aura

Rust-Oleum

Rust-Oleum is a trusted and reliable paint company that’s been around for nearly 100 years. Their products are ideal for any outdoor wood surface, and their specialty is in protective paints.

They know how to create high-quality paint that works well for both commercial and residential applications.

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Wooden Deck Paint FAQs

Can I Paint Over Old Paint On Deck?

No, you shouldn’t paint over old paint. If your current stain is lying down perfectly, there’s no need to repaint it. However, it would be best to eliminate any old peeling paint showing signs of cracking, bubbling, chipping, and blistering. It’s also worth noting that painting a surface with minimum damages requires less preparation.  

Related: Can you paint old Trex deck?

Is It Better to Paint or Stain an Old Deck?

Yes, a quality paint job will fill cracks, seal imperfections, and provide a long-lasting coating, making it a better option for your old deck wood. Painting offers resistance to mold, UV-rays, and rot. However, if time is your primary concern, you should opt for staining.   

Should I Prime My Deck Before Painting?

Yes, prime your deck before painting for better adhesion. And because deck boards are constantly exposed to moisture, humidity, foot traffic, and varying temperatures, it’s essential to prime the surfaces properly.  

Do I Have to Sand My Deck Before Painting?

Yes, it is recommended that you sand your deck before painting to make it easier to apply another paint—minimizing the chances of the new paint coating coming off after a short time. 

How long Does Deck Stains Last

Wood decking can have different stains. The deck stain will last depending on the time, surface condition and shade. You do not need to repaint your deck every few years if you have dark paint. If you want to apply deck stain on a surface that already has a stain, ensure the surface is clean and smooth. If the old stain peels off, you cannot put on any new finish before sanding it. You can use an oil-based or solvent-based stain for this.

Again, a clear UV guard would be best to protect your wooden decks from getting damaged by sunlight. There are three types of stains that work best. First is the water-resistant Solid stains that cover the whole wood grain to ensure it lasts a long time. Second, to get a natural wood color on your wooden deck, go for a semi-transparent stain. It doesn’t stay as long as a solid stain, but it looks great.

You can expect a solid stain to last for two to three years, while a clear stain only goes for a year.

Can You use Deck paint On Garage floors?

The best way to cover your garage floors is with paint that can take rough handling. Such types of paints are available but textured and finish deck paint won’t work for you!

Do Outdoor Rugs Ruin Decks

Natural fiber rugs on wooden decks will cause damage by absorbing water in large quantities. The dampness, in general, encourages mold and mildew to form. On the other hand, synthetic rugs constructed from closely woven polypropylene fabric and recycled plastic mats provide extra decking protection.

Interesting read: Are outdoor rugs bad for decks?

What is the Best Deck Paint for Old Wood?

We have that our wood deck paint reviews have helped you to pick the best wood deck paint for your needs.

Choosing the best paint for wood decking doesn’t have to be a nightmare anymore. KILZ L573611 Latex Floor Paint is our best overall, but you can still try other wood restoration paints listed in this post. 

KILZ Porch & Patio Floor Paint is a good way to paint your porch and patio. This wood deck paint lasts a long time and it doesn’t get scratched or fade.