Deck Paint vs Exterior Paint

Deck paints and exterior paints are quite similar in some terms, but they also have different properties and different processes to apply. Deck paints are usually good for wooden flat surfaces, whereas exterior paints are suited for vertical outdoor surfaces. To know more about deck paint vs exterior paint stick till the end.

Painting any exterior surface or deck is a great way to make your outdoor area more vibrant, hide any imperfections, and protect the surface from damage. However, you have to choose the right type of paint for your project, otherwise, it will do more harm to the surface and spend more in the long run.

This section contains several factors to differentiate between the deck paint and exterior paint to provide more information for your project.

Surface Type

On the surface, you want to paint plays a great role in painting. Exterior surfaces include clapboard, aluminum siding, wood shingles, brick, concrete block, old paint, and so on. Each of these surfaces acts differently, so depending on them, the exterior paint varies.

For decks, the paint varies depending on the types of wood used to make a deck. For example, decks made with softwood can readily absorb paint while hardwood won’t. That’s why acrylic or oil deck paint is used for softwood decks.

Base Type

Depending on the base, paints are usually 3 types, oil-based, water-based, and latex-based. Exterior paints are most oil or latex-based because they can resist water better. To paint decks, you can choose any type of paint with proper caution.

You can even use oil-based paint over a coating of water-based paint. But you can’t do the opposite. To protect the surface from rain or snow, getting oil-based paint is the best choice.

Texture & Sheen

Texture and sheen are also important factors for exterior and deck paint finish. Most exterior paints that are used for walls or vertical surfaces are smooth. But in the case of the deck or floor paint, usually textured or extra textured paint is used to provide additive traction for walking and avoid accidental falls.

Sheen is the appearance of the paint’s finish, such as glossy or matte finish. Some prefer matte while others prefer the glossy finish. However, for decks or high-traffic areas, the high-sheen formula is not a good choice because it can show footmarks and pawprints easily.

Hiding Power

The hiding power of the paint is to hide the imperfections of old paint from the surface. For both deck and exterior paint, if the coat isn’t thick enough to help hide, you might need to apply several coats.

Color Retention

Color retention of any tinted paint refers to its ability to maintain its original color during exposure. Since exterior paints and deck paints are exposed to the sun and other harsh conditions, both of them require paints with good color retention properties.

Blister Resistance

Blister forms due to excessive moisture and paint with blister resistant can prevent it. If your weather zone happens to be rainier, your exterior paint should have blister resistance properties. In the case of decks, if it is exposed to rains much or it is near an aquatic environment, your deck paint has to be blister resistant too.

Durability

Different types of paint have different durability levels. In the case of Exterior paint, they have to be durable enough to withstand a harsh environment and protect the surface for a long time. The durability of the paint will be put to test by the different factors depending on the surface.

For example, for deck paint, you need to consider foot traffic for durability, but you don’t need to consider these factors for exterior walls or roofs. At any rate, you want to increase the durability of any exterior or deck paint, make sure to prepare the surface properly by following the manufacturer’s directions regarding it.

Cost

The average cost to paint a bare wood deck is about 3 dollars per square foot. On the other hand, for outdoor house painting, the average cost per square foot is between 1.5 to 4 dollars. In both cases, the cost can change depending on the material and complexity of the job.

Dirt Resistance

Usually, the gloss or semi-gloss paints offer dirt resistance property while textured or other rough finishes accumulate dirt and grime faster. Also, glossy paints are easier to clean the dust off. So, make sure what you really want before applying any paint on your deck or other exterior surface and get the paint accordingly.

FAQs

How long does deck paint last?

Some deck paint can last more than 5 years in normal cases and where traffic and weather conditions are good for the deck. With the best deck paint for old deck, you can easily pain old decks too. However, for harsh weather or heavy traffic area, the deck needs to be repainted after every 2-3 years.

What tools do I need for painting a deck?

The tools and products you must have by your side to paint a deck are, cleaner formula, water supply, primer, pump sprayer, paintbrush or roller, paint tray or bucket, mineral spirit or paint thinner, and of course deck paint.

Which exterior paint lasts the longest?

Acrylic paint lasts longer than any other exterior paint because it can resist all sorts of damages caused by weather or any other natural variables. For this reason, it is the best type of paint on exterior finishing materials according to professional painters.

Final Verdict

Only knowing the difference between the deck paint vs exterior paint isn’t enough to make the painting perfect and long-lasting. You have to apply paint perfectly with proper preparation. For any exterior or deck painting, make sure there is less wind and the temperatures are at least 50° and it doesn’t drop below 32° at night.

When considering the best options for your wood decks, it’s essential to differentiate between deck paint and exterior paint. Deck stain, especially semi-transparent or solid deck stain, is specifically designed to penetrate and protect wooden deck surfaces, preserving the wood grain and enhancing durability. For those seeking a more opaque finish, high-quality solid stain or latex paint can provide robust protection and color retention.

Ultimately, whether you opt for a semi-transparent stain to highlight the natural beauty of your wood decks or a solid deck stain for a more pronounced effect, selecting the right product will ensure long-lasting beauty and protection for your outdoor spaces.

Deck Paint vs Exterior Paint