One of the best things about composite decking is that it comes in a rainbow of colours, meaning it’s easy to find an option that suits your outdoor space, regardless of its current design or aesthetic.
From traditional brown hues that replicate the natural beauty of real timber but without the maintenance to striking black composite boards for a more contemporary look, composite decking offers an array of options for the discerning homeowner looking to enhance their garden.
Tastes and trends may change over time. However, not everyone may know that a total replacement of composite decking is not necessary. Refresh decked areas easily with a special paint designed specifically for transforming them.
Even though composite decking doesn’t fade anywhere near as quickly as its timber counterparts, it can fade slightly over time meaning that it can benefit from the occasional top-up of colour after prolonged exposure to UV rays and heat.
There are plenty of decking paints available on the market right now, but only some are suitable for composite decking so choose very carefully. Look out for high-quality latex paint in particular as it won’t peel or rub off like standard decking paints and adheres to the composite surface easily, meaning that you’ll achieve a beautiful finish that will stand the test of time.
However, like all painting projects a little prep is involved, so here are the steps you’ll want to take if you want to get that perfect paint finish for your composite decking:
Step 1: Clean it!
You wouldn’t paint a dirty skirting board, so why do the same with your decking? Spend an hour or two removing any dirt or dust with a soft brush or leaf blower before washing the area down with warm soapy water and allowing it to dry.
Step 2: Sand it!
To get the specialist paint to bond with the composite decking surface, it’s a good idea to lightly sand the area with 220 or 240 grit sandpaper to remove the gloss and smooth the area. Remove dust after applying the paint for a smooth finish.
Step 3: Prime it!
Like most surfaces, a good primer can make all the difference when painting, so make sure you seek out a good latex primer before getting busy with the paint. Allow a few hours to dry and you’ll be good to go!
Step 4: Paint it!
Now that all of the prep work has been done, you’re free to paint your composite decking in the colour of your liking, but choose carefully as the hardwearing materials and specialist paint offer a long-lasting finish that you’ll be looking at for quite some time!