Can You Paint Composite Decking?

Thinking about giving your composite decking a fresh lick of paint? You’re not alone. Whether your once-vibrant boards have lost their charm or you’ve simply grown tired of the colour, it’s a question many homeowners ask themselves. Let’s cut to the chase – can you actually paint composite decking?

What Is Composite Decking?

Composite decking has taken UK gardens by storm in the last decade. It’s made from a mix of wood fibres, recycled plastic and bonding agents – creating a hardwearing alternative to traditional timber that won’t rot, warp or splinter.

Most homeowners fork out for composite precisely because it promises a maintenance-free life – no sanding, no staining, no painting. Our composite decking boards come in loads of colours and finishes that should look good for years without much fuss.

Can You Paint Composite Decking?

Short answer: yes. Long answer: yes, but think twice.

While nothing physically stops you from slapping paint onto composite boards, manufacturers generally warn against it. Your warranty? Likely gone the moment that first brushstroke hits the deck. Composite materials weren’t built to be painted, so results can be patchy at best.

That said, if your decking looks rough or you’re desperate for change, painting isn’t completely off the table – you just need the right approach.

Pros & Cons of Painting Composite Decking

Before you rush to B&Q for paint supplies, let’s weigh up what you’re getting yourself into.

Pros of Painting Composite Decking

• New lease of life: Faded, stained or sun-bleached decking can look brand new again with a coat of paint.
• Make it yours: Bored of that brown you chose years ago? Paint lets you match your garden’s evolving style without ripping everything up.
• Save your wallet: Repainting costs pennies compared to fitting a brand-new deck. When money’s tight but your outdoor space needs a lift, paint can be a saviour.
• Extra shield: Good exterior paint adds another layer of protection against whatever the British weather throws at your deck.

Cons of Painting Composite Decking

• Goodbye warranty: As mentioned, painting will almost certainly void any manufacturer guarantees – a significant downside if your decking is relatively new.
• Hello maintenance: Once painted, you’ve unwittingly signed up for regular touch-ups. That “fit and forget” composite deck now needs repainting every few years, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Peeling problems: Composite just isn’t designed to grip paint well. Its slick, non-porous surface often leads to bubbling, flaking and peeling – sometimes within months.
• Texture troubles: Paint covers up the natural wood-grain texture that makes composite look realistic in the first place.

When you’re initially choosing the best material for decking, these considerations might sway your decision. Getting it right first time could save headaches down the line. Click here for more insights on various decking materials before making your choice.

How to Paint Composite Decking: A Step-by-Step Guide

Still keen? If you’ve decided to press on despite the pitfalls, here’s how to give yourself the best shot at success.

Tools & Materials You’ll Need

• Composite deck cleaner
• Pressure washer (gentle setting)
• Fine sandpaper (120-150 grit)
• Primer for composite surfaces
• Exterior acrylic latex deck paint
• Brushes and rollers
• Extension poles
• Painter’s tape
• Clear sealant (optional)
• Drop cloths

Step 1: Clean the Deck Thoroughly

Skip this step at your peril. Paint won’t stick to dirt, moss or barbecue grease. Use a cleaner meant for composite decking and follow the instructions on the bottle. A pressure washer on low can help, but don’t go mad – you’re cleaning, not carving. Let everything dry completely – that’s at least 48 hours unless you’re blessed with rare British sunshine.

Step 2: Lightly Sand (If Necessary)

Many composite boards have a slippery finish that paint simply won’t grip. A light sanding creates tiny scratches for the paint to cling to – think of it as giving your deck something to hold onto. Don’t go overboard; you’re just roughing things up a bit. Sweep or vacuum afterwards and wipe everything down with a damp cloth.

Step 3: Apply a Primer

This isn’t optional. Standard primers won’t cut it – you need one specifically designed for composite or plastic surfaces. Apply evenly with a roller, following the direction of the boards. Use a brush for the awkward bits. Let it dry completely – check the tin for timing, but don’t rush.

Step 4: Paint the Decking

Choose a quality exterior acrylic latex paint designed for decks. Cheap paint is a false economy here. Apply thin, even coats rather than one thick layer. Work in manageable sections to avoid obvious join lines. Two or three coats will last longer than one heavy application. Wait for each coat to dry properly before starting the next.

Step 5: Apply a Sealant (Optional for Extra Protection)

For busy decks that see loads of footfall, a clear protective sealant over your paint job adds an extra barrier against scuffs and weather. Check it works with your chosen paint before applying.

Alternative Ways to Refresh Composite Decking (Without Painting)

Having second thoughts? There are other ways to spruce up tired decking.

Staining Composite Decking

Newer composite products sometimes take stain better than paint. Stains soak in rather than sitting on top, potentially lasting longer. Like paint though, staining will probably void warranties.

Cleaning & Brightening

Sometimes what looks like fading is just built-up grime. Specialist composite cleaners and brighteners can work wonders on weathered decking. They’re particularly good for lifting mould patches and algae that make your deck look past its prime.

Using Decking Rugs or Outdoor Mats

If only certain spots look shabby (like under the table where drinks get spilled), outdoor rugs or mats offer a non-permanent solution. They hide the worst areas while adding a bit of style to your space.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can paint composite decking – but it’s a bit like putting trainers on your dog. Possible? Yes. Practical? Questionable.

The process demands proper prep, specific materials and the understanding that you’re signing up for ongoing maintenance down the line.

For newer decking, we’d suggest exploring all other options first. For older boards showing their age, painting might squeeze a few more summers out of them before replacement becomes inevitable.

The best approach? Regular cleaning and proper care from day one. A little attention throughout the year keeps your composite decking looking fresh without opening the paint tin at all.