Spray Paint Your Deck Like a Pro With This Simple Guide

Painting or staining a deck can feel like an intimidating project, especially when you consider the time and effort it takes to brush or roll paint onto all those square feet of wood. That's where using a paint sprayer comes in! Spraying deck paint or stain allows you to get the job done faster with a smooth, consistent finish. When set up and used properly, deck sprayers give professional-looking results you can be proud of. This simple guide covers everything you need to know to spray paint your deck like a seasoned pro.

Why Use a Sprayer for Deck Painting?

Spraying deck paint offers some key advantages over old-fashioned application methods like brushes or rollers:

• Faster painting time - Sprayers can cover far more surface area much quicker than manual methods.
• Smoother, mark-free finish - No more brush strokes or roller tracks marring your deck.
• Access hard-to-reach areas - Easily coat railings, spindles, and other tight spots.
• Full coverage on large areas - Paint adheres more evenly across your entire deck.

If you want to renew a weathered, faded deck with an attractive protective finish, using a sprayer is the most efficient way to get flawless results. Properly prepped and painted, your deck will look freshly stained by the pros in less time than you might think!

Choosing the Right Sprayer for Your Deck

With deck painting, you'll primarily be dealing with thick exterior paints and penetrative semi-transparent stains. The sprayer you choose needs to be up for the job in terms of handling these materials smoothly and efficiently. Here are two of the most common types of sprayers used for deck projects:

Airless Sprayers

Airless sprayers are a popular choice for deck staining and painting because they deliver paint at very high pressure. Thick deck coatings won't clog the sprayer. Airless models provide:

• Fast painting time thanks to high paint output.
• Ability to handle thicker deck paints and stains with ease.
• Adjustable nozzle tips allowing you to fine-tune the spray pattern.

For large solid-color deck painting jobs, an airless sprayer like the Graco Magnum X5 is a great option. You'll get professional results quickly.

Conventional Sprayers

Conventional sprayers operate at lower pressures than airless models. They work well with thinner materials like stains and varnishes. Benefits include:

• More control over the stain application.
• Lower overspray than high-pressure airless sprayers.
• Smaller investment than purchasing an airless unit.

For applying deck stain to a railing, a conventional sprayer like the HomeRight C800766 provides affordable precision.

Key Features to Look For

When researching deck sprayers, pay attention to these factors:

• Tip size - Smaller tips give you greater control over the spray pattern.
• PSI range - Match this to the viscosity of your coating material.
• Easy maintenance - Look for easily cleaned filters and tips.

Choosing a sprayer designed for the type of coating you'll be using ensures the best results on your deck refinishing project.

Prep Work is Crucial for Success

Preparing your deck thoroughly before spraying is just as important as your painting technique. Don't skip these all-important steps!

Deep Cleaning the Deck

Your deck needs to be immaculate before you begin painting. Use a pressure washer or stiff scrub brush to remove:

• Old flaking paint/stain
• Dirt and debris
• Mildew or algae
• Grease and oil

Let the deck dry completely before moving on to avoid trapping moisture under the fresh paint.

Cover or Mask Off Areas

Protect any areas you don't want sprayed by covering them with:

• Drop cloths
• Plastic sheeting
• Masking tape

This includes siding, railings, plants, and any furniture you can't easily move.

Inspect and Repair Wood

Walk your deck and note any flaws in the wood needing attention like:

• Damaged boards to replace
• Splits, cracks or holes to fill
• Rough areas to sand smooth

Proper prep prevents peeling, cracking, or delamination of the fresh paint job down the road.

How to Use a Paint Sprayer on a Deck

Once you've completed all the critical prep work, it's go time! Follow these steps for spray painting your deck like a professional house painter:

Proper Sprayer Setup

• Select the correct spray nozzle tip for your paint's thickness.
• Adjust the pressure for optimal deck paint atomization.
• Thoroughly mix the deck paint before pouring it into the sprayer's cup.

Take the time to dial in your sprayer - it will pay off in smooth results.

Test Sprays and Practice

• Try a test spray on scrap wood to get the feel.
• Practice your motion to ensure even coating.

Experimenting reduces mistakes and avoids wasting expensive decking materials.

Work in Sections

Don't attempt to spray the entire deck at once. Organize your project into sections:

• Start with rails, corners, and other tight areas first.
• Divide the main deck space into smaller, manageable work zones.

Sectioning off your deck makes the painting process less overwhelming and easier to manage.

Maintain Consistent Motion

As you spray, be mindful of your technique:

• Keep the sprayer the same distance from the deck surface.
• Use steady, back-and-forth strokes.
• Avoid spraying in one area for too long.

Careful motion ensures the paint applies smoothly and evenly across the boards.

Prevent Drips and Runs

To achieve a pro-quality paint job:

• Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick, heavy coat.
• Stop spraying at the first signs of paint pooling.
• Distribute excess paint with a brush before it drips.

Proper sprayer use and technique prevents marring your deck with runs, drips, and sags.

Follow this guide to check all the boxes for refinishing your deck like an expert:

• Dedicate plenty of time to proper prep work - this lays the foundation.
• Build up the deck paint slowly with multiple thin coats.
• Allow adequate drying time between coats.
• Touch up any imperfections at the end with a brush.

With the right sprayer, some practice, and some tips for careful application, you can make a beautiful deck. Just remember - patience and preparation are key to a long-lasting, professional-looking painted deck. Grab your sprayer and get ready to be impressed with the results!