can composite decking be stained

Composite decking can also be stained and is often a better option than paint. The composite deck stain will only work on the decking that is not capped. A film of PVC

or other plastic product acting as a cap over wood fibers will not allow the stain to penetrate.

Full Answer

How to put the Shine back in composite decking?

How to clean and restore a composite deck

• Messmer’s Composite Deck Finish, one gallon for every 200-250 square feet of deck surface
• Composite Deck Cleaner (omit if the deck is already cleaned)
• Bristle brush or roller and roller pans, 3/8″ nap roller cover

Can You stain or paint a composite deck?

Yes. It’s possible to stain or paint Trex or composite deck with proper surface preparation. First, you need to clean the deck, scuff it, and prime it to accept paint. Ensure you use an acrylic latex exterior primer and a latex paint with a semi-gloss or satin finish for this purpose.

Can you paint or stain composite decking?

You can paint or stain composite decking. But make sure that it is uncapped. Otherwise, the paint will not stick to the deck surface. There are lots of factors involved with painting or staining composite decks.

Can you replace wood deck with composite?

You don’t actually have to replace it, but you can cover it with additional composite material. Composites are available in a standard 5/4 in. x 6 in. size for decking. But, they are also available in a 1 in. x 12 in. option, which is the perfect size to cover those sides of the deck.

What kind of stain can you use on composite decking?

Apply BEHR PREMIUM® Solid Color Weatherproofing All-In-One Wood Stain & Sealer using a quality pad applicator, brush, roller or sprayer directly over clean, dry composite decking to give a whole new look.

Can you stain over composite decking?

You can paint or stain a composite deck. There are many products on the market that make paint and stain specifically for composite decking. While older generations of composite decking take stain better than newer material, most types of composite decking will take stain or paint.

Is it better to stain or paint composite decking?

Stains tend to work better than paints, but they might not last as long, she said — as is true for coatings on wooden decks.

Can you change the color of composite decking?

Yes, you can paint your composite deck and change the color to something you like better. Painting can also freshen up the look of your composite deck since the material can fade and lose color with prolonged sun exposure and other many factors.

Can you use wood stain on composite?

A: Yes, you can stain worn composite decking, but since it doesn't have genuine wood grain you'll need to select an exterior stain/sealer with a solid color.

How do you make composite decking look new?

You can perform a semiannual cleaning on your composite deck to preserve its longevity.Step 1: Pre-spray your deck. ... Step 2: Spray with soapy water & scrub. ... Step 3: Rinse thoroughly. ... Step 1: Pre-rinse. ... Step 2: Mix up your vinegar solution. ... Step 3: Sprinkle baking soda. ... Step 4: Rinse thoroughly.More items...

How do you restore faded composite decking?

If your wood rich composite decking is looking faded and worn, it's time for a refresh! The RockSolid Composite Deck Refresh product line is an all encompassing solution. Our stain remover and cleaner work great at cleaning and preparing the surface of your composite deck for the refresh toner.

Can you power wash composite decking?

While a composite deck is less maintenance and easier to clean than a traditional wooden deck, the homeowner still needs to make sure it is kept clean and free from unwanted stains and materials. Thankfully, composite decking is easily cleaned with the soap-and-water method or basic power washing.

How long do composite decks last?

between 25 and 30 yearsComposite decking requires minimal upkeep and can last between 25 and 30 years. On average, plastic decking has a similar lifespan to composite decking and can last nearly 30 years.

Can you paint wood composite?

You can use a satin or semi-gloss latex paint on interior wood composites, but be sure to use acrylic latex enamel on exterior wood composites.

Can you paint the end of Trex?

Composite decking ends can be finished by picture framing, raised fascia board, painting the ends, attaching decking veneer, composite nosing strips, vinyl stair nosing cove, composite corner trim or plastic end caps. In short composite decking, ends must be hidden or blended into the look of the decking boards.

Can you power wash Trex decking?

Trex does not recommend the use of a pressure washer. The use of a pressure washer on deck surface could damage the decking surface and will void the warranty with respect to any condition caused by the pressure washing.

Do wood deck stains fade?

The problem is that traditional wood deck stains will begin to fade soon after they’re applied. To get that freshly stained look and keep it without the hassle, opt for no-stain-needed composite decking, which holds its rich color for decades — not days.

Do you need to stain composite decking?

TimberTech offers a color portfolio that features your favorite stained and painted wood looks. There’s no need to stain composite decking to get the look you want. With our varied color portfolio, you’re bound to find the right color to suit your style — no staining required.

How long does composite decking last?

Most of the composite decking has a lifespan of roughly twenty-five years. And if your decking is more than twenty years old, replacing it might be a good idea. ● Choose the paint or stain carefully. One of the main reasons for painting or staining composite decking is to achieve a custom color to match your house.

Why paint composite decking?

One of the main reasons for painting or staining composite decking is to achieve a custom color to match your house. Stains and paints for composite decking are available in many colors. Choose a color that is suitable for you.

How long does a stain last on a deck?

And as mentioned before, stains have a shorter lifespan compared to paints. Typically stains last about one year on average.

What is the best primer for composite decking?

Acrylic latex-based primers are best for composite decking. They increase the durability of the stain or paint. Before painting or staining your composite deck, always consider the weather condition. Moisture and rain are the worst enemies of your composite deck.

Can composite decking be stained?

Older composite decking that is made by combining plastic and wood fiber uniformly can be stained or painted. However, "Capped" composite decking can't be painted or stained. The construction of Capped composite decking is almost similar to older generation decking.

Can you stain a composite deck?

And it is recommended that you only use stain or paint made for a walking surface. Both painting or staining are good options to restore the appearance of composite decking. But staining is mostly suitable for composite decks that are only a few years old. It gives them a natural woody look.

Can stains stick to capped composite decking?

This shell provides extra protection to the inner composite core from the outside environment. Due to this PVC shell, paints or stains can't stick to the capped composite decking.

How Composite Differs From Wood

Natural wood is affected by exposure to outdoor elements like sun and rain, so over time it can fade or discolor, requiring occasional staining to look new again. Composite, on the other hand, is made up of various materials including wood fibers and renewable resources.

What If You Want to Stain Your Composite Deck?

While you’ll never need to stain your composite deck to preserve its appearance, you may want to eventually switch up its look. If you know ahead of time that you’re someone whose taste changes frequently and you won’t want the same deck color, talk with your deck installer beforehand.

What is a BFT12?

Whatever the weather, Bigfoot’s newest 12” plastic tube (BFT12) delivers a simple, yet dependable way to build footings. Ground water or rain poses no threat to our Bigfoot tubes. The tapered plastic design prevents uplift from frost and high velocity winds. The BFT12 meets or exceeds all Local and National Building Codes when used with a Bigfoot Systems® Footing Form. ]

Can you spray stain on a deck?

You can typically spray on the stain, but always back-brush the product to work it into the fibers of the decking material. Apply even coats and allow ample drying time before exposing the surface to foot traffic.

Can you stain composite decking?

A: Yes, you can stain worn composite decking, but since it doesn’t have genuine wood grain you’ll need to select an exterior stain/sealer with a solid color. First, clean the deck surface with a Deck Cleaning detergent and rinse thoroughly, as with any refinishing job. Apply the solid-color stain according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

What is the difference between capped and non-capped composite decking?

The main difference between our types of composite decking is those products that are capped and those that are not. Capped composite decking will have a plastic outer layer around the piece of lumber. Non-capped composites don’t have this layer, allowing the wood fiber mix to be exposed.

What is a Behr's deckover?

For instance, products like Behr’s Deckover are a mix between a stain and a paint. While these types of hybrid products might seem adequate, you still need to read the fine print.

What is the best stain for a wood deck?

Follow the directions as if you had a wood deck, including surface prep, priming, if necessary, and application. Oil-based stains are ideal for both wood and composite, non-capped decking. They penetrate the plank better, protect from rain and UV damage, and last longer than water/acrylic-based stains.

What is composite decking?

Composite decking is a mix of plastics and wood fibers. There are two main types of composite decking. The first features a mixture of plastics and wood fibers throughout. The second has a wood fiber core with a sheet of plastic wrapped around it. Don’t confuse composite decking with plastic decking.

Is PVC decking considered composite?

Plastic decking – or PVC decking or lumber – is just that – 100% PVC and is not considered composite decking because there are zero organic compounds within it. We won’t be covering plastic decking in this article. One of the main components of composite decking is actual wood.

Can you paint Trex decking?

You can use any type of exterior wood deck paint for non-capped composite surfaces, including Trex. As mentioned above, this type of decking behaves similarly to traditional wood, accepting the same types of paint.

Can composite decking be stained?

Composite decking can also be stained and is often a better option than paint. The composite deck stain will only work on the decking that is not capped. A film of PVC or other plastic product acting as a cap over wood fibers will not allow the stain to penetrate.

Make sure you pressure wash the boards first

The answer to this is yes and no. Composite decks weren’t designed to be painted. They were designed to have a long-wearing top color that lasts as long as the material. What happens if you get tired of the color or if it fades in the sun? You can paint it, as long as you understand a few things.

Most composite decks can be painted or stained

Some newer composite decking materials use a different exterior finish than traditional composite decking. Those finishes won’t accept paint, but most composite decks can.

You have to take some specific steps

Yes. Although composite decks are not designed to be painted, they can still accept a paint layer nicely.

Make sure that it is cleaned, sanded, and primed for the paint

If you’re considering materials for your new deck and want to make sure that you choose something that can be painted, then composite is a great option.