Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to spruce up your outdoor living space! One of the most effective ways to give your deck a fresh new look is by painting or staining it. But, tackling this project can be daunting, especially when it comes to those hard-to-reach spaces between the boards. Fear not, fellow DIY enthusiasts! In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to paint between deck boards like a pro. So grab your paintbrush and let’s get started!
Gather Your Materials
Before you dive into the actual painting process, make sure you have everything you need for a smooth-sailing project. Here’s a list of materials and tools you’ll need:
- Paint or stain
- Deck cleaner
- Sandpaper (80-grit)
- Broom or leaf blower
- Paintbrushes (a wide brush for large areas and an angled brush for edges and tight spaces)
- Paint roller with extension pole (optional but helpful)
- Painter’s tape
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles, mask)
Prepare Your Deck
A clean surface is essential for ensuring proper adhesion of paint or stain. Follow these steps to prepare your deck for painting:
Clear off any furniture or obstructions – You’ll want plenty of room to work without tripping over obstacles.
Sweep away debris – Use a broom or leaf blower to remove any leaves, dirt, and other debris from your deck.
Clean the deck thoroughly – Apply deck cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions using either a pump sprayer or a stiff-bristle brush.
Rinse well with water – Make sure there’s no residue left behind after cleaning.
Inspect for damages – Check if there are any loose nails or screws and tighten them. Replace any damaged boards.
Sand the surface – Using 80-grit sandpaper, sand the deck to ensure a smooth surface for better paint adherence. Don’t forget to sand between the boards as well.
Clean again with water – Once you’ve finished sanding, rinse your deck thoroughly with water to remove dust and debris. Allow it to dry completely before painting.
Choose Your Paint or Stain
Deciding whether to use paint or stain depends on your desired look and level of protection for your deck. Here are a few things to consider:
Paint: Provides a solid color that can cover up imperfections in the wood and offers more protection against UV rays and moisture.
Stain: Enhances the natural beauty of the wood grain while still providing some level of protection against weather elements.
Whichever option you choose, make sure it’s specifically designed for exterior use on decks, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.
Time to Paint Between Deck Boards
Now that your deck is prepped and ready, let’s dive into our main focus – painting between those pesky deck boards!
Tape off any areas where you don’t want paint – Use painter’s tape around edges, railings or other areas where you want clean lines without paint bleed-through.
Start with a small brush – Begin by using an angled brush (around 1″ or 2″) dipped in your chosen paint or stain, working it into crevices between each board carefully without pushing too hard (this could cause excess buildup). Make sure not to get too much product on your brush at once as this can lead to drips.
Use long strokes – To ensure even coverage, apply long strokes parallel with the length of each board rather than short back-and-forth movements. Be mindful of any drips or runs, and smooth them out as you go.
Work in sections – To avoid stepping on freshly painted areas, work in small sections from one end of the deck to the other. This will also help maintain a “wet edge,” which is important for seamless blending between sections.
Take your time – Patience is key when it comes to painting between deck boards! Don’t rush through this process as it can lead to uneven coverage or pooling paint.
Paint the rest of the deck – Once you’ve finished painting between all your deck boards, switch to a wide brush or roller (with an extension pole if needed) and paint the top surface of each board, railings, and other visible areas.
Apply a second coat if necessary – Depending on the type of paint or stain used, you may need multiple coats for optimal coverage and protection. Allow adequate drying time between coats according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Clean up – Make sure to properly clean your brushes and rollers after use to extend their life span for future projects!
How To Paint Between Deck Boards Conclusion
Now that your newly painted deck is dry and ready for use, take some time to admire your hard work! By following these steps on how to paint between deck boards, you’ve not only given your outdoor space a fresh new look but also added years of life by protecting it against wear and tear from weather elements.
So kick back with an ice-cold beverage on that gorgeous new deck—you earned it!
