Refinishing your deck might sound like a big project, but with the right approach, it’s a manageable task—even if you’re not a DIY expert. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of transforming your deck with just a few essential tools and some elbow grease. This tutorial is perfect for anyone who wants to give their outdoor space a fresh look without the need for specialized equipment or advanced skills.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have the following:

• Pressure washer (or a garden hose with a strong spray nozzle)
• Deck cleaner and a pump sprayer
• Sandpaper (medium to fine grit) or a palm sander
• Decking paint (in your chosen color)
• Paint Sprayer (optional)
• Paintbrushes and rollers
• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
• Protective gear (gloves, safety glasses, and a mask for sanding)
• Replacement deck boards (pressure-treated)
• Hammer, nails, or drill and screws
• Crow bar and multi-tool to remove old boards (if needed)

Step 2: Prepare the Deck

Start by removing all furniture, plants, and other items from your deck. You want a clean, clear surface to work on. Next, inspect the deck for any loose nails or screws, and secure them back in place if needed.

Step 3: Replace Rotting Deck Boards

Before you move on, take a moment to check for any rotting or damaged boards. If you find any, you’ll want to replace them with pressure-treated outdoor boards of the same size. Use a hammer and nails or a drill and screws to secure the new boards in place. This step is essential to ensure the structural integrity of your deck and a smooth, even surface for painting.

I had a very difficult time removing our rotted boards! My multi-tool was a lifesaver in allowing me to cut off the nails, which refused to be pried loose.

Step 4: Clean the Deck

To ensure the paint adheres well, you’ll need to clean the deck thoroughly. If you have a pressure washer, use it to remove dirt, debris, and old paint. If not, a garden hose with a strong nozzle can work in a pinch. For stubborn stains, consider using a deck cleaner. Be sure to let the deck dry completely before moving on to the next step—this could take a day or two, depending on the weather.

Step 5: Fill in Holes or Gaps in the Wood

Since I didn’t replace all the boards, some of the hand rails had holes or splitting that I wanted to smooth out. I used wood filler and a putty knife to apply this to the holes and gaps and let it dry completely.

Step 6: Sand the Railings

While I didn’t sand the entire deck, I did focus on the railings to ensure a smooth finish. Use medium to fine grit sandpaper or a sanding block to sand down any rough spots, especially where old paint might be peeling. This step is key to achieving a professional-looking finish on the areas that are most visible. I used my palm sander and it made the job quick and easy.

Step 7: Tape and Protect

To avoid getting paint where you don’t want it, use painter’s tape to mask off areas like the edges of the deck and around any fixtures. Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect nearby surfaces from paint splatters.

Step 8: Paint the Deck

Now for the fun part—painting! I used a paint roller with a roller cover for rough surfaces and an extension rod for the deck boards. Then I switched to a mini roller and paintbrush for the railings. We had a ton of latticework on our deck, so for that I used a spray gun to get into all the nooks and crannies. Depending on your paint’s coverage, you might need to apply a second coat once the first one is dry. I applied two coats to the deck boards and railings (areas that would get the most traffic), but just a single coat everywhere else.

Step 9: Let It Dry and Enjoy!

After you’ve finished painting, let the deck dry completely. This can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours, depending on the weather and the type of paint you used. Once dry, remove the painter’s tape and put your furniture and plants back in place. Now, step back and admire your handiwork!

Step 10: Furnish and Accessorize Your New Space

Now that your deck is beautifully refinished, it’s time to bring it to life with quality furnishings and accessories. I added an outdoor rug to define the space, a great furniture set from Walmart, and a coffee table and side tables for functionality. To make the area cozy and inviting, I included some beautiful outdoor pillows and faux plants. These touches not only enhance the aesthetic but also make your deck a comfortable spot to relax and entertain.

Because we have a lattice privacy fence, I added some planter boxes (which I painted with the same deck paint) and filled them with star jasmine that should grow and bring some greenery and beautiful flowers to this space eventually.

Deck Furniture and Accessories

Final Thoughts

Refinishing your deck is a rewarding project that can dramatically improve your outdoor space. By following these simple steps, you can achieve a professional-looking result without needing a bunch of tools or advanced skills. Enjoy your “new” deck, and don’t forget to take some time to relax and soak up the fresh look you’ve created!