APPLYING DECKING PAINT – TIPS FROM V33

V33, the innovative surface solutions expert has come up with some helpful advice for anyone wishing to paint their timber garden decking. Marketing Manager, Richard Bradley, says that first of all choosing the right paint is key:

“You may want to paint your decking simply to make it look good, but did you know that the best formulation paint can also afford a number of other benefits too? For example, go for one with anti-slip properties. If you choose a paint formulation that affords a matt, opaque finish then you will be able to disguise wood imperfections more easily. In addition, select a paint that provides protection against foot traffic, sunlight, bad weather, stains and everyday dirt. Seek out a 5-year guarantee – longer than most offered – so that you can achieve real value for money.”

Here are V33’s expert tips on applying decking paint to timber to achieve a beautiful finish.

PREPARATION

Like most painting projects the correct preparation of the surface in question is paramount for achieving a good finish. Time spent on doing this properly at the outset is time well spent since it will result in a defect-free finish. Timber that has previously been treated with sealer, paint or wood stain should be sanded down to expose the bare wood, then ensure it is dust-free.

Then perform the ‘water drop test’: place a small amount of water on the timber. If the water droplet absorbs into the timber, you may apply the decking paint. However, if the water droplet remains on the timber surface, the paint will not adhere. If the water droplet test is successful, degrease the surface with methylated spirits. On new timber, wait three months before applying decking paint as this will allow the timber to absorb the paint fully.

Clean and Revive application

APPLICATION

The ideal application conditions are dry weather and temperatures of between 12° and 25°C. Decking paint should not be applied in strong winds and when bad weather is forecast. First of all, stir the paint well and repeat this during its application using a mixer or wide stick, and working around the bottom of the tin to mix it well.

On exotic timbers and hardwoods, dilute the first coat of paint with 10% water. Apply the paint with a brush between the grooves and edges in one 2m2 area at a time, then paint with the roller in various directions, (top to bottom and sideways), avoiding excessive application. Allow 8 hours before applying a second coat. On highly porous or highly exposed decking, a third coat may be required. Idealy, allow a further 48 hours before light usage of the decking. If there are any signs of heavy wear or surface damage then a maintenance coat should be applied. Woods with little absorption (Iroko, Wenge, Larch etc) require a regular application of a maintenance coat anyway.

When applying further coats of decking paint it is best to wash timber with a pressure washer and remove any foliage or moss and excess oil stains.

Decking Paint_pic 2

V33 TIPS

Avoid stressing the decking surface (through shocks, stains and cleaning) during the first two weeks after application.
Avoid standing or walking on the decking after painting it for 48 hours.
Ideally, apply 2 coats of decking paint, without overload, even on porous substrates.
For optimum adhesion, application of the first coat of paint must be carried out on dry wood, ie immediately after a minimum of 3 consecutive days of dry weather, and without risk of rain within 48 hours after applying the 2nd coat.
V33 COLOUR GUARD DECKING PAINT

Colour Guard Decking Paint is part of a new range of V33 decking products available through B&Q. Offered in a selection of shades of grey, V33 Colour Guard Decking Paint is available in 2.5L tins priced at £45. One tin will cover 25m2. Once applied, the paint V33 leaves a beautiful, washable surface.

Also included in the range are two decking oils and a preparation product. The range covers everything you need to ensure your decking is water-repellent and UV-protected, whilst also looking great for longer. For more information visit www.v33.co.uk.

V33 can also be found on Facebook/Instagram.