Question

Deck   We have stained our deck for the last 3 years (since it was built), but I am thinking maybe painting would hold up better.  We usually stain in the spring, and by the next spring it looks HORRIBLE.  Is paint a little more durable?  

Also, we have a red brick house with light tannish trim.  What color would you recommend painting the deck if we did?  I have attached a photo.

Answer
Hello:

Paint will start to peel in about 3 to 8  years so it wouldnt necessarily last longer than stain. While some exterior paints are of the chalking (slowly washes off but does not peel) type,this type of paint is not suitable for a deck because it will rub off on clothes,etc...

A high quality and darker color stain will fade less.  Stain also penetrates the wood better and forms a tighter waterproof seal than paint and you avoid the hassle of having to remove the old paint by using stain. A good stain can last up to 8 years.

If you decide to use paint I would suggest alkyd,polyurethane or rubber based paint. These oil based paints are more durable than latex. Alkyd paint forms a hard shell. The range of colors in these paints may be limited. The color would be completely dependent on your own taste. There is no objective standard of color here.



Mark Harshman


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