Best Overall
TotalBoat TotalTread Non-Skid Marine Deck Paint
Best Bang for the Buck
INSL-X Sure Step Acrylic Anti-Slip Coating
Best for Deck Rail
Montage Signature Interior/Exterior Paint
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pack of cards extend the living area for personal downtime and gay gatherings , so they have to stand firm a ton of dealings as well as take a beating from the element . If you notice aged Natalie Wood or strip down pigment on your deck of cards , it ’s probablytime for a unused finish — the sooner , the good . Why ? The longer you hold off to paint the deck , the more defect it can develop , making maintaining the deck that much more difficult .
However , getting the honorable 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 involve to know what to await for in a deck paint . That ’s why I decided to prove the best blade on today ’s marketplace . Our top recommendation is theTotalBoat deck of cards paintbecause of its smooth practical app and nonslip finish once to the full dried .
I brushed on coating after coat of several different sword of pack of cards paint on decking board purchased specifically for the examination . I travel along the program instructions for each and then took the test board outdoors to face theharsh sun , rainwater , and windbefore test them further . Not all the deck paints I try earn a spot in our lineup , but if you ’re planning to upgrade your pack of cards , those that did are deserving consider .
The best deck paint can endure up to coarse outdoor conditions , such as blow shit , wind , pelting , and temperature extreme point . Keep reading to memorise how to select the best pack of cards paint , and see how each of the following products made it to this batting order .
How We Tested the Best Deck Paints
When I begin explore deck paints , I found a batch of ballyhoo and even more self-contradictory information and reviews , which lead to the conclusion to test the most popular brands . I wanted to ascertain each one ’s overall timber , so I started by purchasing decking board and slue them down to 12 - inch tryout board .
I labeled the test boards , and , except for one pigment meant for consortium deck , I applied the deck rouge . I noted how well the paints were conflate right out of the can and how long I had to arouse them ( if applicable ) . I also notice how evenly each paint cover when I brushed it on the surface of the test boards .
I added a 2d coat of each paint to ensure it had the best shot at adhering and take form a durable surface . Then , a couple of weeks after picture , I tested the paint surface by scrubbing them with a ashen tabloid to see if any color fall off . I then checked to see how slick the Earth’s surface were .
As I put the paints through their paces , I used a rubric and award points as to how well each performed on every test . At the ending of the examination , I added the points and used them to assist determine relevant award for each product .
Our Top Picks
All the following products had to pass tight testing to qualify for a situation in this batting order of the best deck paints . Because lector merit to know how a deck pigment is likely to perform before drop their money , I did n’t draw out any punch .
It ’s a waste of time and money to apply a substandard paint . If the paint conk out , the paint must be scratch off and prepped again .
All the following deck paints are designed for various outside climate and needs , but each is a standout in its class . break out each pick to learn its pro and cons before deciding which deck paint to employ .
Our Ratings : Application5/5;Odor5/5 ; Finish5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value4/5
For a fresh Modern look and anti - slip protective covering that lasts , consider TotalBoat TotalTread Non - Skid Deck Paint . It creates a rugged , coarse-textured surface suitable for decks , patios , and more .
This durable polyurethan deck of cards paint is bill as elusive enough to expend on boat decks , and the manufacturer claims that it imparts a high - traction , low - sheen last that wo n’t break through or skin . The blusher come in a mid - tone gray , and it have no more than a couple of minutes to meld it with a paint joystick . delirious to test those claim , I paint one of the decking examination boards . It hold up on evenly with a light touch . I arrange it by to dry and bring a second coat 16 60 minutes afterwards .
Photo: Glenda Taylor
The next sidereal day , I put the paint test circuit board outdoors to sit in the element for 2 weeks . After that , I tested it for both scrubbability and nonslip properties . I sprayed the board with water and ran my fingers over it again — it was n’t at all slippery . Then , I wipe the wet surface with a clean white rag to see if any color would come off on it . Nope . The tatter was still livid .
TotalBoat can be applied with either a brushing or a roll , and one to two coats are recommended , although I recall a single coat covered very well . One gallon cover up to 300 feet . I like this rouge a lot , but it ’s not cheap . To cut price when painting an entire deck , I ’d practice it only on the deck flooring . I ’d choose a less - expensive exterior tooth enamel for railing since they do n’t command a nonslip surface .
Get TotalBoat deck paint atAmazonorJamestown Distributors .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
Our Ratings : Application5/5;Odor5/5 ; Finish5/5 ; Durability4.8/5 ; Value4/5
Those calculate to update a pack of cards with a nonslip coating that does n’t cost a circumstances need look no further than INSL - X Sure Step Anti - Slip Coating . This acrylic fiber deck and porch blusher provides a high - traction surface at an low-priced price . The rouge is available in a fistful of attractive colors , and I chose Desert Sand for my tests . One gallon covers up to 120 feet .
Since it had finalise during shipping , I had to put forward the key for about 8 minutes before it was intermix well enough to continue . I used a brush and utilise a coat to my test board . It went on evenly and covered well . I could see a fine texture , and I set it aside to dry out .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
After 8 hour ( the recommended minimum wait meter ) , I apply a second coat , brushing it perpendicular to the first , as instructed on the recording label . I could see a potential welfare to cross - sweep the 2nd pelage — it might adhere substantially than if brush in the same direction . That was the first metre I ’d consort across the technique , but I ’ll keep it in head for succeeding painting project . Plus , INSL - X is made by Benjamin Moore , one of the most respected blusher manufacturers in the nation , and I usually bank the company ’s advice .
When the paint was teetotal , I tested INSL - X ’s nonslip grain by wet and rubbing my fingers over the tight surface — they did not slew easy . I tested scrubbability by spraying the decking panel with body of water and rubbing it with a sporting white shred . No color came off on my rag , so that was a addition . Only time will tell how any decking paint holds up to month of ultraviolet radiation ray and the elements , but my initial legal opinion of INSL - X is that it offers a durable , nonslip surface at an attractive price detail .
Get INSL - X deck paint atAmazon , The Home Depot , orAce Hardware .
Photo: amazon.com
Our evaluation : Application5/5;Odor3/5 ; Finish5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value4/5
In the past , I was n’t entirely sold on environmentally favorable paints : either they did n’t pop the question unspoilt insurance coverage , or they did n’t tolerate up to the elements . I ’m felicitous to say that Montage Signature made me rethink my opinion . This is the first environmentally responsible for key I ’ve used that offer opposition to stamp , mildew , and ultraviolet light rays . One crucial note , however : It should be used only on deck railing or work up - in benches , not on deck of cards floors , because it ’s not designed to hold foot traffic .
This H2O - based blusher is a low - VOC product and spare of toxic fumes , but the smell still is n’t appeal — it border on disgusting . However , I apply most of these paints in a shop to decking plug-in . Had I been paint actual pack of cards railing , I would have been outdoors , so the odor would have been less noticeable . The best matter I can equate the odor to is rotting leaf . luckily , when the paint is ironic , no aroma lingers .
Photo: amazon.com
Montage Signature is suitable for use of goods and services on indoor or outdoor railings and crop . It ’s available in either semi - gloss or depressed - luster sheens and come up in 18 grey and earth tones . I pick out unaccented gray in a low luster , and I was impressed with the color and the uniform insurance coverage . I apply a second coat after waiting the commend 4 hours .
Like the other paints I tested , I put Montage Signature to the scrub psychometric test after the decking board sat for 2 weeks out of doors . I spray on water and wipe smartly with my rag ; no blusher came off . One congius of this eco - friendly rouge can cover up to 300 satisfying groundwork . With this product , cleanup is with soap and water supply .
Get Montage pack of cards paint atAmazon , orWalmart .
Photo: amazon.com
Best Gloss Finish
Behr Premium Gloss Enamel Porch & Patio Floor Paint
Our Ratings : Application5/5;Odor5/5 ; Finish4/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value4/5
Update that pack of cards with a glossary finish with Behr Premium Gloss Enamel Porch & Patio Floor Paint . This tooth enamel deck paint provides a svelte shininess that could apparel up any pack of cards . I tested this deck paint in Slate Gray .
The paint was mixed relatively well when I opened the can , so I only had to conjure it for a hour or so . I used a brush to apply a unvarying pelage on my test board , and it went on smoothly and evenly . The label does n’t intend the need for a second coat or offer up a minimum dry out time between coat . It does , however , suggest waiting 72 hours for the key to heal . I feel that the initial coating was too thin , so I waited the full 72 hours and then brush on a second coat .
Photo: homedepot.com
Behr Premium Gloss dried to a okay sheen — not as glossy as some paint I ’ve used , but unquestionably in the gloss family . The tone was pleasing , and I could suppose it on a larger deck area . I set the board outdoors to await the 2 - week scrubbability test . It came through with flying honors : No color or paint came off on my white rag . However , when I wet the test instrument panel and rubbed my finger across the blusher , I felt little - to - no friction , which makes me think that this blusher would be slippy when wet .
One gallon covers up to 400 square fundament on wood or masonry , and because it ’s a water - base paint , killing requires just Georgia home boy and weewee . I really care the looking and durability of Behr Premium Gloss paint . However , for those wait for a nonslip pace , a unlike pick might offer a safer surface .
Get Behr gloss deck of cards paint atThe Home Depot .
Photo: amazon.com
Best for Pool Deck
Fixall Skid Grip Anti-Slip Coating
Our Ratings : Application4/5;Odor5/5 ; Finish5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value4.8/5
Nonslip rubber is a top concern around pools , and Fixall Skid Grip Anti - Slip Coating produces a textured , in high spirits - grip flat conclusion on Mrs. Henry Wood , rock , and concrete . Moreover , it exceeds the Americans with Disabilities Act ( ADA ) standards for anti - slip Earth’s surface . This water - based paint is available in a range of attractive colours that complement landscape interior decoration , and the finish resists fading , chipping , and flake .
This was the only deck rouge I tested on a concrete paver alternatively of a decking board because it ’s used for pool decks , which are typically ( but not always ) concrete or brick . It ’s also recommend for both concrete and asphalt lawn tennis judicature , private road , and sidewalks . The rouge is available in a handful of colors , and I chose Smoke .
Photo: homedepot.com
As far as I could separate , the blusher had n’t ramify , but I give it a few stirs to be on the secure side . I paint the top of a concrete paver with a brushing . The pigment is thickheaded but easy to smooth out out . A single coat might have been sufficient , but two are suggested , so I wait the recommended 12 hours and apply a second pelage .
The Fixall key left a observably textured surface that felt slightly jolty to my spare finger when to the full wry . After 2 calendar week , I wet it down , and the friction was splendid ! My fingers did n’t slip at all . A slight downside is that the open is petulant , and I imagine it could be rough on bare groundwork . The nonslip safety divisor , however , is splendid . It also stand out in my scrubbability test .
Fixall paint offers superior adhesion and can be applied with either a encounter or a roller . Cleanup is simple with warm , soapy piss . One gallon cover up to 80 square feet .
Photo: acehardware.com
Get Fixall deck paint atAmazon , Lowe’s , orWalmart .
Best Color Selection
Behr Premium Low-Lustre Porch & Patio Floor Paint
Our Ratings : Application4.5/5;Odor5/5 ; Finish4.5/5 ; Durability4.5/5 ; Value4/5
select arrant white , or have Behr Premium Low - Lustre Enamel Porch & Patio Floor Paint custom - tinted to any desired colour via Behr ’s computerized color - rival system . Behr is sold only at The Home Depot , but users can rate online after browsing the color swatch at the store .
The paint is also useable in either gloss or low luster , and I chose low splendor . I corrupt the paint at the local Home Depot , and they shook it in their machine . It was blended well when I open it , and no inspiration was necessary . I applied a consistent coating to my trial board with a brush , and it covered equally . The skirmish marks leveled out to a flavorless finale , but I find like a single pelage was too thin . After 72 hours , I apply a second pelage , even though the label ’s instruction did n’t suggest it . It also did n’t bring up a minimum recoat fourth dimension . However , at 72 hour , the paint was supposed to be fully cured , so that ’s when I apply a second coat .
Photo: homedepot.com
Two weeks later , I tested the paint for nonslip dimension and scrubbability . It passed the scrubbability trial , but it did n’t exhibit any nonslip properties . My finger slue across well when the aerofoil was cockeyed , so keep that in mind if looking for deck of cards paint that deters slip .
One gal of this tooth enamel is supposed to embrace up to 400 substantial feet , but I suspect that ’s only when a individual , slight coating is applied . Still , it offer an attractive conclusion that drug user can have custom - blended to the color of their choice , and it ’s made to resist mold growing .
Get Behr low - luster pack of cards paint atThe Home Depot .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
Best for Old Wood
Cabot DeckCorrect Water-Based Deck Resurfacer
Our Ratings : Application4.5/5;Odor5/5 ; Finish5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value4.8/5
To test Cabot DeckCorrect , I selected a display panel with knots and a few minor rent . DeckCorrect is not only designed to provide a nonslip finish , but it ’s also supposed to fill up in little cracks and flaws in wood . The blusher come in a satin tincture base , and I had it tinct Slate Gray at my local Lowe ’s .
The formula is fairly thick , and the first coat seemed to meet most of the small cracks and cut across the depression made by the knot — but not all . The manufacturer suggested a second coat after 4 to 6 60 minutes , but I had to hold off nearly 24 hours before the surface was no longer tatty to recoat it . The 2nd coat completely fill in the cracks and the mile ; I could no longer see or palpate them .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
After 2 weeks , I tested for scrubbability and to set if the surface was nonslip . Cabot DeckCorrect top both trial : My fingers did n’t slide on the wet instrument panel , and no paint came off on my rag . One congius cover up to 75 square feet , and cleanup is easy with warm , smarmy urine .
Get Cabot pack of cards paint atLowe’sorAce Hardware .
Best Quick-Drying
Behr Premium Solid Color Waterproofing Wood Stain
Our Ratings : Application4.5/5;Odor5/5 ; Finish4/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value4/5
For tight drying and rapid recoating , regard this Behr Premium solid colour waterproofing paint . While technically a stain , this pack of cards coating imparts a substantial opaque color , creating a full - coverage coating like deck paint . I pick out an attractive Slate Gray colour .
Having tested many deck paints , I was skeptical that this Behr rouge would be dry enough to recoat in 1 to 2 hour , but I was ill-timed . The formula is comparatively thin , and it partially penetrated the wood , although it still obscured the wood grain . It ’s like a cross between a stain and an enamel . The main deviation is that a true discolouration can not be applied over a previously painted surface , but this solid color smirch / sealant can , placing it in both the stain and blusher categories .
It was ironical to the feeling at 2 hours , so I applied the 2nd coating , which added heaviness and just a soft hint of sheen . I felt it could have benefit from a third coating , but I did n’t apply one since I used two coat to test all the merchandise . It ’s an attractive cultivation that should complement most out-of-door options .
After 2 weeks , the color did n’t amount off when I scratch the board with my rag , but it did n’t impart a nonslip surface either . It was n’t as slick as some of the other products that did n’t offer nonslip properties , but it was still on the wily side .
This Behr Premium normal is suitable for composite and wood decks . It offers waterproof protection and contain ultraviolet radiation blocker to prevent fading . The water - ground blusher also contains a mildewcide for added protection against mould and mildew . Apply it with a brush , roller , or nebuliser . One gallon covers up to 400 square feet .
Get Behr pack of cards paint atThe Home Depot .
ALSO TESTED
Behr Premium Advanced DeckOver Waterproof Coating
I was disappointed at have got to disqualifyBehr Premium Advanced DeckOverfrom this lineup . In the early form of the testing , I was impressed with DeckOver — it went on swimmingly , the color I ’d chosen — a deep gray — was pleasing , and it provide a nice , nonslip finis .
The trouble came two hebdomad later after I ’d forget the decking board out in the harsh Sunday and elements before testing it for scrubbability . As with the other test board , I sprayed the DeckOver test panel with piddle and then rub it with a clean white cloth . The gray people of color fare off on my shred . Behr claims the rouge is fully cured in 72 hours , so it was n’t an issue with the pigment not cure .
I examined the gameboard carefully , and with a fingernail , I beak lightly at a loose bound 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 rouge from the card .
I ca n’t be sure whether I purchased an honest-to-goodness can of blusher that had been posture on a ledge somewhere or if it had been exposed to extreme temps that damaged it . I just knew that it did n’t live up to our high standards .
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Deck Paint
prefer a wood deck paint is about more than just buying exterior paint and rolling it on . According to Jolene Jantz , paint adviser forJantz Lumber and Do it Centerin McPherson , Kansas , DIYers should first ensure the paint is meant for horizontal surfaces .
Jantz excuse that manyexterior paintsand tooth enamel can withstand the elements — when applied to vertical surfaces . pack of cards blusher must be made specifically to implement to horizontal open . “ The can should say that the paint is made for horizontal surfaces if it ’s suited for use on a deck , ” Jantz aver .
extra considerations include the case of Ellen Price Wood , the sort of prep piece of work required before picture , and the desired look of the finished project .
Base
Deck paint comes in two main types : oil color - based and water - based , each of which has advantages and disadvantages . While oil - based paint once rule the marketplace , water supply - based products are in dandy demand today because of their improved lastingness and informality of use .
Oil - based deck paint has been around for decennium , and until the preceding ten or so , it was considered the best paint for decks and other exterior projects . These paints are still a lasting and affordable option , but they also have some less worthy features . An oil - base wood pack of cards paint :
Water - base deck paint , including acrylic paint paint and latex paint , has come a foresighted room in recent years . In fact , many expert deliberate it just as upright as oil - found paints . Today these paints are available in a sort of colors and optional ingredient that aid protect exterior wood . A H2O - based wood deck paint :
VOC Content
Many of today ’s consumers need to use few toxic product . In reply , paint manufacturer are finding shipway to manufacture character paints with lower fickle organic chemicals ( VOCs ) , which are the harmful gasolene emit by these products . Some may cause health problem . deck of cards paint with lower VOC content is judge as either “ Low - VOC ” or “ Zero - VOC . ”
Wood Type
Some Sir Henry Joseph Wood species , such as sequoia and cedar , are naturally resistant to moisture impairment , decompose , and insect plague , but they ’re typically pricey . As a resolution , most exterior decks are construct from treated lumber . This wood , ordinarily yellow pine tree or Douglas fir , is infuse under pressure with alkaline copper Little Joe ( ACQ ) to resist the component . However , when it reaches the lumberyard , this democratic lumber is often freshly treated , and the ACQ chemical substance have n’t had time to vaporise out of the wood .
Before paint a new do by - wood pack of cards , experts advocate waiting at least 6 months to see these chemicals have disappear whole . If you paint a deck before the chemicals evaporate , the pigment may not adhere , leave in crack and peeling .
Durability
To stand up to the elements , the deck of cards paint must be label “ exterior blusher ” to aid guarantee its suitability for outdoor use . Steer clear of interior paints , which do n’t have adequate weather- and fade - insubordinate qualities .
The adage “ You get what you pay for ” is true with rouge . The secure deck of cards paint contain in effect binding agents and longer - endure pigments , such as titanium dioxide , that make the coloring material less likely to evanesce or peel .
Manufacturers often produce blusher in three category : “ dear , ” “ Better , ” and “ well . ” Products judge “ Best ” may cost twice as much as those in the “ Good ” batting order , but they are more durable . high quality pigment are also duncical , which mean a gallon of “ Good ” paint will overlay more square animal foot than a gallon of “ Best ” key . “ good ” pigment can go forth a blockheaded , more indestructible coating on the pack of cards . The general rule is to purchase the highest timbre key useable , because it will last longer and protect the wood more expeditiously .
Look for these qualities :
Climate Conditions
Because they ’re intend for exterior use , most pack of cards paints curb additive to protect the pack of cards from mold , mildew , ultraviolet light ray , and uttermost temperatures . While paints with one or two of these additives are typically hunky-dory , it ’s often a good idea to prefer for a product with all three for the best tribute and longest - lasting coloration .
moisture and rainy climates add to deck paint failure , because if moisture seep into the woodwind beneath the blusher , it can undo the bond paper between wood and paint , resulting in peeling . To reduce this risk , paint all sides of the pack of cards boards — even the bottom , if possible — to seal the wood and keep out moisture . If the deck sit lowly to the ground , progress to it impossible to paint the underside , moot using a penetratingdeck stainrather than a pack of cards paint . Whenchoosing between paint or stigma , commend that mark will seep into the Natalie Wood grain itself .
Lasting Color
Both oil - finishing and high - timber weewee - based deck paints stand fading , but deep colour and bright tones usually pass off more quickly than light chromaticity and gross tones . Dark , bright colors command a high percentage of pigment to bring out the color . add higher levels of paint can keep down the timber of the main ingredient because they ’re more diluted . Paint manufacturers constantly mold to meliorate people of color lastingness , and today ’s pigment are more colorfast than their harbinger .
When opt a color , also consider the pack of cards ’s positioning . A deck of cards that ’s frequently in the Sunday will fade more quickly than a pack of cards in deep shade , even if the paint contains UV protection .
grain and Finish
pack of cards paint is usable in dissimilar surface finishes , depending on the percentage of polish ingredients in the formula .
Decks , steps , and porch often get wet and slick in inclement weather , particularly if they fence a swimming pool or are otherwise divulge to the elements . In addition to take a colour , consider nonslip pigment . Many deck paints contain constituent , such as fine silica sand , that create a slightly textured surface to increase traction and reduce the risk of mistake .
Dry Time
Most oil - found deck of cards key take longer to dry than water - ground option , which can take as recollective as 6 to 24 hours , depending on the product . Water - base paints dry more quickly , some as quickly as in 1 to 2 hours . However , temperature and humidity pretend the ironic times of both type of paint .
Many deck paint manufacturers paint a picture applying paint when the outdoor temperature is over 50 degrees Fahrenheit but no high than 80 academic degree Fahrenheit . temperature low-down than 50 degrees can cause either type of blusher to dry out more slowly . In temperatures mellow than 80 degrees , especially on a dry , sunny daytime , the paint may dry too quickly , which means the component wo n’t bind as well as they should , reducing the quality and endurance of the pigment .
Recoating time is slightly long than drying time . In universal , countenance an extra 24 hours after crude - based paint dries before recoating , and allow 4 hours after H2O - based pigment dries before applying a second coat .
Prep and Application
For character results , prepare a pack of cards for house painting is essential . According to Jantz , “ It ’s the single most important part of learning how to paint a deck of cards . ” Prepping demand the undermentioned steps :
FAQs
With the cost of construction fabric at an all - time high , it pays to protect a backyard deck to gain ground as much utile life from it as possible . A fresh coat of pigment can help safeguard wood deck from UV hurt , mould , and water system molder , but for those novel to the idea of painting a pack of cards , some questions are to be expected .
If you ’ve antecedently painted the deck , it ’s best to repaint . For a new deck or an onetime deck of cards that you ’ve never painted , you may either stain or paint it .
You ’ll need to reapply deck of cards brand every few years . Deck paint can last up to 7 days before reapplication is needed , reckon on paint tone and the wood ’s condition .
in the end , length of service depend on the quality of the paint and the condition of the deck . However , in cosmopolitan , expect deck of cards paint to last 4 to 7 years .
Meet the Tester
Glenda Taylor is a product examiner and writer specialise in the mental synthesis , remodeling , and real demesne industry . She and her husband own a worldwide catching troupe , and Taylor is experience in both residential and commercial-grade building applications programme . She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other habitation betterment , menage , and lawn - and - garden products .
This Is the twelvemonth for a Kitchen Renovation
Whether you ’re sell or staying , everyone can get something out of a kitchen update . see why we think this restoration the Most Valuable Project of 2025 and how to appease on budget .
