Freshen Up Your Outdoor Space: Painting Decks and Stairs
With warmer weather and longer days approaching, you’re likely feeling that familiar longing to revitalize your outdoor areas again. Perhaps your deck has sustained deep-seated mud, and the paint on your stairs has chipped. Repainting these areas during the warm season is ideal as the paint will dry better in these days compared to the rest of the year. You will be surprised at how much more you’ll enjoy those outdoor moments with a little paint refresh.
Here are a few things to consider before and while you do the makeover.
Choosing the right materials
Before you even think about picking up a paintbrush, let’s talk about what you’ll need. When it comes to outdoor decks and stairs—especially in the wet climate of the Pacific Northwest—you need a paint that can handle heavy rainfall, moisture-rich winters and springs, humid summer days, and fluctuating temperatures. Exterior-grade acrylic or latex paints are usually your best bet. They’re durable, flexible enough to cope with temperature changes, resistant to moisture and fading, and clean up easily with just soap and water.
Be sure to choose a formula designed specifically for decks and floors. These often include mildew resistance and offer extra traction to help prevent slips on stairs.
While exterior-grade acrylic or latex paint can do the work, some home exteriors require complex painting techniques and prepping. It’s worth getting recommendations from a local exterior house painter who knows exactly what will hold up best in our Pacific Northwest climate.
Preparation
Start by giving your deck and stairs a thorough cleaning. You want to get rid of any dirt, grime, mold, or loose bits of old finish that have accumulated over the winter. A stiff brush and a good deck cleaner will be your allies here.
Once it's clean and dry, take a good look at the wood. Are there any rough patches, splinters, or areas where the old paint is peeling? Grab some sandpaper and smooth them out. If you do not have the materials or time to do the prepping, you may consider booking a deck refinishing service.
Priming
For some, this might feel like an unnecessary step, especially if you're eager to see that fresh color. As experienced exterior house painters, we highly recommend priming decks and outdoor stairs. It helps the new paint adhere better, seals the wood to prevent moisture issues, and provides a consistent surface for your topcoat.
Painting Time!
Pick a day that is not too hot, too humid, or threatening rain. PNW climate can be tricky, so you might want to check the weather forecast before picking up the buckets. Start with the railings and any detailed areas using a good-quality brush. For the larger surfaces like the deck boards and stair treads, a roller with an extension pole will save your back.
Apply the paint in smooth, even strokes, always following the direction of the wood grain. Resist the urge to slather on thick coats. Thinner, even coats will dry better and last longer. Most of the time, especially with outdoor surfaces, you’ll need a second coat for good coverage and durability.
Book a Painting Service for a Hassle-free, Expert Outdoor Makeover
That’s about all the steps you need to remember when repainting your home exterior. If you need a professional contractor to do the repainting work for you, Queen Anne Painting is the best choice. We have over 45 years experience serving properties in King County, which makes us knowledgeable in the climate, paint types, and best colors for Seattle properties. Queen Anne Painting takes the hassle of deck refinishing off your plate. Book a painting service today!