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When you paint your deck, you can choose any color, and cleanup is easy, but the paint hides the natural wood grain. Stain, on the other hand, lets the wood grain shine through, but requires more maintenance. The cost to seal a deck is about the same as painting. Consider your personal preferences to see which option benefits you most.

For bare wood or cement decks, you only need to clean the surface before applying the first coat of paint. If you're recoating an existing finish, you'll need to pressure wash the deck to remove chipped paint and debris. Either way, make sure to allow the surface to fully dry before moving forward; otherwise, the finish could peel.

A gallon of paint covers between 125 and 300 square feet, depending on its formula. Since your deck might need two coats of paint, for a standard 300-square-foot deck, you might need two to four gallons. If you're painting a pool deck, keep in mind that the specialized non-slip paint covers less area because the texturized material takes up more space in the can.

The cost to stain a deck ranges from $2 to $4 per square foot, which is similar to the average deck painting cost. For a 300- to 400-square-foot deck, you might pay from $600 to $1,600 for staining. After staining, it’s a good idea to seal the deck; sealing a deck costs $0.50 to $3 per square foot.

Yes, you can paint directly over old deck paint if the existing finish is in excellent condition. You should inspect the surface to ensure there's no cracking, peeling, or chipping before proceeding. If you notice any deterioration, you'll need to remove the compromised paint. Clean your deck thoroughly with a power washer, lightly sand any rough spots, and use the same type of paint to guarantee proper adhesion and long-lasting performance.

Yes, applying a coat of primer before painting your deck is essential unless you're using a combined 2-in-1 formula. Primer enhances the adhesion of the new paint, establishes a moisture barrier, and creates a smooth, uniform surface. Be sure to inspect your deck for any defects or old finishes, and use a high-quality primer to fully prepare the surface for a durable and pristine finish.