What to Do If Paint is Peeling Off Your Deck

For many homeowners, a deck is an extension of their living space — a place where family and friends can relax, unwind, and celebrate being together. So, when you have weathered or peeling paint on your deck, it can take away from the experience and cause you to spend more time indoors.

No matter the climate you live in, your deck is exposed to a lot on a daily basis. This means that even properly painted decks will eventually succumb to normal wear and tear from the sun, rain, or other outdoor elements.

Deck painting, staining, and repairing are a few ways to address this problem and revive your aging deck. The solution that’s best for your deck depends on the amount of damage it has suffered and the maintenance it receives. Before you begin any work, there are a few things you should consider:

• What’s causing the paint to peel?
• What is currently applied to the deck, oil- or water-based paint or stain?
• When is the best time to repaint a deck?
• What are your expectations for this finished project? New condition?
• What are the best tips to repair peeling paint on deck surfaces?
• Is deck painting the best option?

Let’s review each one of these factors in more detail to determine the best course of action.

Causes of Peeling Paint on Decks

The principles of paint adhesion are complex. In short, a bond is created between the paint and the wood (or other surface) when specific criteria are met. If one or more of the issues below exist, this bond can fail, and deck paint peeling or flaking can occur.

• Surface Preparation: Paint can't properly adhere to a dirty surface, so extra care must be taken to eliminate dirt, debris, mildew, and other substances from the deck before painting. Removing all of the old paint or stain will likely require the deck to be stripped with a grinding tool. This will help ensure a good bond between the paint and the deck surface.
• Moisture and Humidity Level: The number one enemy of paint is moisture because water vapor separates paint from surfaces. If your deck was painted when humidity or moisture in the air was high, it will affect how well the paint adheres to and remains on the deck surface.
• Paint Quality: Expired or poor-quality paint can lack the properties necessary to create a tight bond, which makes it more prone to problems such as inadequate coverage, peeling, or flaking.
• Application Process: The method used to apply the paint to your deck is instrumental in achieving satisfactory results. Top-quality paint, tools, and the proper techniques are required to achieve a finish that will last for years to come.

When to Repair or Repaint Deck Peeling

Whether you should repaint or repair your peeling deck depends on the extent of damage. Is the peeling paint consistent throughout the entire deck or only present in one or two areas?

If the damage appears to be confined, determine the source of the issue (e.g., a leaking gutter, high traffic, or excessive exposure to the sun). Address the underlying issue to prevent further damage and proceed with repainting using the tips outlined in the following section.

If the damage is consistent over the entire surface, it’s time for a complete deck makeover.

Tips to Repair and Repaint Deck Peeling

Depending on the age of the paint job on your deck, the location of the damage, and the color used, you may be able to successfully repair minor sections of peeling paint on your own. However, if the paint on your deck is in bad shape, it might be best to consider professional deck staining or painting services. Call the experts at your local Five Star Painting^® to discover the best way to revive your deck with fast, professional results.

Should you opt for the DIY route, lean on some tips from our painting pros to help you repair and repaint small areas of your deck:

1. To prep your deck, remove any loose paint from the deck using a stiff brush or scraping tool.
2. Sand the area until it’s smooth and all paint is removed
3. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before proceeding.
4. Make sure you paint on a day when humidity levels are not too high, and the air is relatively dry.
5. Apply the paint using a brush or roller.
6. Allow the paint to dry, and apply a second coat if needed.

In order to have a great project outcome, ensure you are using correct products rated for deck surfaces.

Why Deck Staining May Be a Better Solution

If your original deck paint has faded and the area needing repair is large and visible, deck staining may be a long-term solution to consider over repainting your deck. While both options have their advantages, deck staining offers unique benefits that can make it a more practical and visually appealing choice.

• Natural Look: Staining enhances the natural beauty of wood, allowing the grain and texture to show through. If you love the natural wood look, deck staining is the way to go.
• Variety of Finishes: Stains come in a wide range of finishes, from clear coats that let the natural wood shine through to semi-transparent options that add a hint of color. You can customize the look of your deck without covering the wood’s natural beauty.
• Longevity: Because stains bond with wood at a deeper level, they often last longer than paint.
• Easier Maintenance: Stains tend to penetrate the wood rather than sit on top like paint. This means they’re less likely to peel or chip over time, and , in turn, require fewer reapplications and less upkeep in the long run.
• Weather Protection: Deck staining protects from UV rays, moisture, and mildew. It seals the wood, helping it resist the damage caused by the elements.

Five Star Painting’s Deck Painting and Staining Services

Your deck can be an oasis for a quiet morning coffee or a relaxing evening with family and friends. When your deck doesn’t look its best, you probably won’t spend as much time enjoying it.

If your deck needs a facelift, let the painting pros at your local Five Star Painting do all the work. We can strip the old paint from your deck and apply a fresh coat of weatherproof stain or paint to enhance its natural beauty.

Want to enhance more than your deck? Our experienced team is well-equipped to handle all your exterior and interior painting needs. You can trust the experts at Five Star Painting for exceptional deck painting services because all of our work is backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise^®, which guarantees your satisfaction.

Spend less time working on your deck and more time enjoying it. Call us today to get started on your next project, or schedule an estimate for a free quote.

This article is intended for general guidance only and is not applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your property and situation. Five Star Painting is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of advice and/or guidance derived from its blog content.

Some Five Star Painting services vary by location. Contact your local Five Star Painting franchise for more information.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Five Star Painting is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Five Star Painting location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.

FAQs About Peeling Paint on Decks

Our years of experience, attention to detail, and decades-long commitment to exceptional customer service set Five Star Painting apart from the competition. Continuing this high standard also includes using our knowledge and experience to answer your most frequently asked questions about deck paint that is peeling.

How do I know if I should repaint or stain my deck?

Determining if your deck needs repainting or restaining requires assessing its condition.

• Look for visual and tactile cues. Faded color, graying wood, and uneven coloring indicate weathering and likely necessitate a fresh coat.
• Test water repellency. If water no longer beads on the surface but soaks in, the sealant has deteriorated.
• Feel the wood. Roughness, splinters, or cracking suggest dryness and damage, requiring immediate attention.
• Examine for mold, mildew, or rot. Inspect shaded or damp areas. These issues compromise wood integrity and demand prompt treatment.

Consider the age of the existing stain. Most stains last 2–3 years, but this varies based on climate, sun exposure, and the quality of the original product. If it's been longer, restaining is likely needed.

Paint has a shorter lifespan than stain, typically 1–3 years. If your deck's paint is nearing or past this age, check for deck paint peeling, cracking, or fading. Older paint loses its protective qualities, making the wood vulnerable to moisture and rot.

Regular maintenance, including cleaning and visual inspections, will extend your deck's lifespan and prevent costly repairs. Knowing when to stain or repaint a deck that’s peeling or otherwise damaged can save time, money, and a lot of headaches down the road. If you’re unsure about the quality of your deck paint or stain, contact the professionals at your local Five Star Painting for a free estimate.

What’s the best time of year to repaint a deck?

The optimal time to repaint a deck is during periods of stable, moderate weather. Spring and early fall generally provide ideal conditions. Aim for temperatures between 50°F and 80°F (10°C and 27°C) with low humidity.

Avoid repainting a deck that’s peeling or otherwise damaged during the hottest parts of summer, as the paint can dry too quickly, leading to poor adhesion and blistering. Similarly, winter's cold temperatures can prevent proper curing and cause paint to crack.

Check the forecast for several days of dry weather, as rain can ruin freshly applied paint. Morning dew can also affect adhesion, so it's best to paint after it evaporates. A dry, overcast day is often perfect, as it avoids direct sunlight that can cause the paint to dry unevenly. Proper drying time is important for a durable finish.

Can I paint over an old stain on my deck?

Painting over an old stain on a deck is possible, but it requires careful preparation. Success hinges on the type of stain and its current condition. Solid stains are more easily paintable than semi-transparent or transparent stains, which may bleed through.

1. Clean first: Thoroughly clean the deck to remove dirt, mildew, and loose paint. A pressure washer can be helpful, but use caution to avoid damaging the wood.
2. Sand the wood: Sanding the deck is important. It roughens the surface, promoting paint adhesion and removing any loose stain or finish.
3. Use a primer: Apply a high-quality exterior primer specifically designed for wood. This creates a bonding layer between the old stain and the new paint.
4. Select the right paint: Choose a durable, exterior-grade paint formulated for decks, as it must withstand weather and foot traffic.
5. Do a test: Test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility and desired results.

Pay close attention to the condition of the existing stain. If it's peeling or heavily deteriorated, removal might be necessary before painting. Proper preparation is key to a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing finish and to avoid deck paint peeling. Your local Five Star Painting pros can assess your deck’s needs, help you find the paint or stain you want, and take care of all the prep and paintwork.