Best Outdoor Deck Paint

The time always comes when our yards need a little tender loving care. More often than not, the first place that needs attention is the decking area. 

Your deck is not just a functional area; it’s an extension of your home, where you can relax, entertain, and create lasting memories.

But over time, exposure to harsh weather conditions can leave your deck looking worn and dull. That’s where the right deck paint comes in. 

A high-quality outdoor deck paint not only adds a fresh coat of color, but also offers essential protection against the elements, ensuring your deck remains durable and beautiful for years to come.

Just a quick browse of the market and you’ll soon see that there are countless outdoor deck paint brands and products available. Of course, some are superior and may suit your needs better than others. Choosing the right for your decking, though, can be stressful and time-consuming.

That is where we come in! We have tested over twenty different outdoor deck paints currently on the market and come up with our top five for today’s best of guide.

We considered several factors in selecting these paints, such as durability, moisture levels, and temperature fluctuations (we’ll go into more detail for each one below).

Please read on to discover the top deck paint options on the market as we help you make an informed choice to revitalize your outdoor space with long-lasting beauty.

1. INSL-X SU099809A-01 Sure Step Acrylic Anti-Slip Coating Paint

Our dedicated team tested over twenty outdoor decking paints, but one that stood out for the best anti-slip type of paint was this offering by INSL-X, a trusted brand under Benjamin Moore.

This particular paint is specifically crafted for homeowners who own pools or reside in regions prone to heavy rainfall. With its impressive performance, this paint offers invaluable benefits to enhance outdoor safety and aesthetics.

Available in seven vibrant color variations, the INSL-X anti-slip paint goes beyond mere appearance. Its formulation includes remarkable features such as color-retaining properties, ensuring your deck maintains its vibrant allure for an extended period.

Additionally, the paint exhibits abrasion resistance, safeguarding your wooden surfaces from wear and tear. 

The key highlight of this product lies in its protective grip, effectively preventing slips and falls on wet surfaces. We decided to test this out, albeit with some trepidation, and sure enough, the paint is anti-slip, even when a little wet! 

Moreover, the versatility of this multipurpose paint extends beyond wooden decks. Whether you have concrete or metal surfaces in your outdoor spaces, we found that this paint is compatible and can provide a reliable non-slip surface for all your needs. 

With INSL-X anti-slip paint, you can confidently safeguard your pool area or any other outdoor space, while simultaneously adding a touch of visual appeal.

Pros

• Dried very quickly – simply pan your deck and wait an hour or so and you can use your decking as usual
• Excellent for interior and exterior applications – a versatile paint that be used for different types of surfaces, including metal and concrete
• Skid-resistant – durable, anti-slip finish for supreme safety, even in wet conditions

Cons

• Colors may not always be accurate – some customers have reported that colors are not always accurate upon testing it out 

2. Montage Signature Interior/Exterior Eco-Friendly Paint

If you’re on the lookout for eco-conscious indoor and outdoor paint, look no further than Montage Signature Interior/Exterior Paint. Crafted with a focus on sustainability, this paint is manufactured using raw and post-consumer latex paint, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

What sets this Montage paint apart is its impressive mold- and mildew-resistant finish, backed by a confidence-inspiring 10-year warranty. This ensures long-lasting protection against unsightly growths and promotes a cleaner and healthier living environment.

With over 15 colors to choose from, homeowners have ample options to suit their personal style and preferences. We tested a few different colors and sure enough, each one was almost identical to the advertised tone.

Moreover, this versatile paint offers a choice between a low-sheen or semi-gloss finish, allowing you to customize the look and feel of your interior and exterior walls, floors, and trim.

Thanks to its water-based formula, we found cleanup an absolute breeze, further adding to its convenience. This paint delivers not only an appealing aesthetic but also a sustainable and durable solution for your painting needs. 

This eco-conscious indoor and outdoor paint not only enhances the beauty of your outside decking but also its longevity, while minimizing your environmental impact.

Pros

• Defends against mold and mildew – protects decking in wet environments over a long time frame
• Easy to scrub – when dry, you can scrub this paint easily and its durability means it will not fade any time soon
• Includes a 10-year warranty – can buy with the confidence that you are buying an excellent-quality paint

Cons

• May need several coats – its consistency means you may need to give your decking two or three coats before you get the desired result
• Fumes can take some time to dissipate – the fumes emanating from this paint may linger in the vicinity for a while after application 

3. TotalBoat TotalTread Non-Skid Deck Paint

Upon testing over twenty paints, we found that TotalBoat TotalTread Non-Skid Deck Coating was one of the very best for offering a fresh look and anti-slip protection over a long period of time

This polyurethane deck paint is designed to create a rugged and textured surface, making it suitable for decking, patios, and more.

TotalBoat, a renowned name in the deck paint industry, boasts it has supreme durability, claiming that it is tough enough for use on boat decks. The manufacturer assures that it provides a low-sheen yet high traction finish that won’t peel or crack over time. 

To put these claims to the test, we eagerly painted one of our decking test boards. The paint blended easily with a paint stick and applied evenly using a brush.

After allowing it to dry, we added a second coat around 15 hours later to ensure optimal coverage.

Next, we subjected the painted test board to the elements for two weeks. Once the time had passed, we examined its non-slip and scrubbable properties. Running our fingers over the wet board, we found it to be remarkably non-slippery.

To further assess its quality, we wiped the wet surface with a new, clean cloth, and to our delight, no color was transferred onto it!

This paint can be applied with either a brush or a roller, and the manufacturer recommends one to two coats for optimal results.

However, we found that a single coat provided excellent coverage. With one gallon covering up to 300 square feet, it offers good value for its performance. 

Pros

• Blends quickly and easily – only requires a few minutes to blend in and mix
• Has a textured, non-slip surface – when dried, this paint is non-slippery for better grip
• Offers good coverage – with just one or two coats, this paint provides an excellent coverage for a long time

Cons

• Expensive – compared to many of its competitors, this paint is on the pricier side of the spectrum

4. FixALL Skid Grip Anti-Slip Coating

Fixall Anti-Slip Skid Grip Coating is another fantastic example of non-slip outdoor deck paint.

This paint produces a textured, high-traction flat finish on wood, concrete, and stone surfaces, making it an ideal choice for areas around pools where safety is a top concern.

It not only meets, but exceeds the standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for anti-slip surfaces.

Available in a range of attractive colors that complement landscape decor, Fixall Anti-Slip Skid Grip Coating offers both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The paint is specially formulated to resist fading, peeling, and chipping, ensuring long-lasting performance in different outdoor environments.

During our testing, we applied the paint to a concrete paver, simulating a pool deck surface. The paint had a thick consistency, but was easy to apply and smooth out with a brush.

While a single coat may have sufficed, we followed the recommended guidelines and applied a second coat after the suggested 12-hour drying period.

Once fully dry, the Fixall paint left a noticeably textured surface that provided excellent friction when wet. It was easy to scrub with no color fading, passing the durability test.

However, it’s worth noting that the surface can be slightly rough and may not be suitable for bare feet. Nonetheless, the nonslip safety factor of this paint is outstanding.

Pros

• Ideal for wet areas – this paint is one of the best for decking by pools where it can be slippery, but this acts as a non-slip solution
• Durable – the paint is scrubbable for long-lasting usage
• Thick and smooth covering – one coat may be sufficient for some surfaces, whilst two is almost always enough

Cons

• Surface can be quite rough – standing on this paint with bare feet can be a little uncomfortable 

5. KILZ Low-Luster Enamel Porch & Patio Latex Floor Paint

Our final outdoor deck paint today is this latex example from KILZ. This Low-Luster Enamel Porch & Patio latex Floor Paint offers an array of benefits for your covered or exposed patios, decks, and porches. 

Although it doesn’t have a vast color choice like some of the others on our list, there are two attractive colors available, adding a vibrant and crack-resistant finish to your outdoor spaces while effectively combating mildew growth.

The KILZ latex deck paint is conveniently packaged in a one-gallon can, providing you with ample coverage for your painting projects. It can cover between 300-400 square feet of smooth surfaces, allowing you to transform a significant area with ease.

When testing it, we found it provided a mild satin finish that adds a touch of elegance and enhances the overall appearance of your porches and patios.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, this paint also offers durability and protection. It is formulated to resist cracking, ensuring that your painted surfaces remain intact even in challenging weather conditions.

Furthermore, its mildew-resistant properties help to maintain a clean and fresh-looking surface.

Pros

• Scuff, fade, crack, and peel resistant – lasts for a long time, protecting your decking against any marks and damage
• Especially designed for decks – made with a low-luster enamel surface that works on wood, concrete, and stone surfaces
• Can be applied to already primed or painted surfaces – can update your decking with one of the paint’s two vibrant colors 

Cons

• Not 100% waterproof – tests have found it is not completely waterproof so may not be suitable for wet areas (i.e. around a pool)

Buyer’s Guide

Above are our top five outdoor deck paints, but before you make a decision on what one to purchase, we want you to consider some important factors.

Below are key considerations to make to ensure you buy the right paint for your decking. We will discuss the areas we looked at when choosing the best for our list today.

Durability

When selecting outdoor deck paint, always prioritize durability over anything else. Remember, your deck is exposed to harsh weather conditions, foot traffic, and UV rays.

Therefore, look for paints specifically designed for outdoor use, formulated to resist cracking, peeling, fading, and wear. 

Choose paints with excellent adhesion and flexibility to withstand temperature fluctuations. Do this, and you can save money on purchasing new paints on a regular basis. 

Protection

This leads us to our next important factor – the paint’s protection qualities. Opt for a paint that offers superior protection against mold, mildew, moisture, and stains.

Look for features like UV resistance and waterproofing properties to shield your deck from sun damage and water infiltration. A protective barrier will help maintain the beauty of your deck and extend its lifespan.

Color and Finish

Of course, you’ll want to choose a color that suits your outside space and something you like the look of. For the best results, choose a paint color and finish that complements your outdoor aesthetic. 

Consider the overall style and design of your deck and home exterior, and look for colors that blend well with your outdoor environment and create a cohesive look.

Additionally, the finish is also a key consideration. Select a finish (e.g., satin, semi-gloss, or matte) that aligns with your desired level of sheen. If you don’t want anything shiny, matte is the best way to go.

Slip Resistance

Safety is paramount, especially for outdoor decks which can become overly slippery, especially when wet. This is why you should consider paints with anti-slip or non-skid properties, providing traction to prevent slips and falls, particularly in wet conditions.

Look for paints that meet or exceed industry safety standards and provide adequate grip for your deck’s specific usage. This is especially important if your decking is around a swimming pool that is often wet, and if you stand on it bare foot.

Ease of Application

Avoid stress by looking for paints that are easy to apply, whether with a brush, roller, or sprayer. Consider paints that offer good coverage and require minimal coats for efficient application.

Additionally, check for paints that provide easy cleanup options with water or mild soap.

Price and Coverage

All of us have a budget we need to stick to, so keep this in mind when browsing for paints. Consider how much you are willing to spend and evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the paint. 

We recommend that you compare prices among different brands while also considering the coverage provided per gallon.

Calculate the overall cost based on the required number of coats and the square footage of your deck. This can help you save money in the short term and long run.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Research reputable brands known for producing high-quality outdoor deck paints. These are well-known because they have been proven to make good-quality products time and time again.

Check customer reviews and ratings to gauge the experiences and satisfaction levels of previous users. Reliable brands often provide better warranties and customer support.

In Summary

There are some key factors to consider when choosing the best outdoor deck paint, including protection, durability, slip resistance, color options, price, and more.

Prioritize these aspects, and hopefully one of the paints in our list today will be the one to enhance the appearance of your deck while providing long-lasting performance and safeguarding against weathering. 

Frequently Asked Questions