Can You Paint or Stain Composite Decking?

Lately, many homeowners prefer composite decking over traditional pressure-treated wood due to their undeniable advantages, such as their durability and low maintenance requirements. However, one common question comes to mind: “Can you paint or stain composite decking?”.

In this blog, we’ll try to answer that question and explore the possibilities when it comes to upgrading your composite decking. Let´s take a look.

Understanding Composite Decking

Composite decking is a type of building material commonly used for decks, docks, stairs, railings, and outdoor structures. It’s made from a blend of wood fibers, recycled plastics, and other materials which are bonded together to create a robust and durable material.

Composite decking imitates the look of natural wood although without the need for regular maintenance. It´s also resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage, which makes it a popular choice for homeowners looking for the beauty of natural wood without the upkeep.

Types of Composite Decking

1. Wood-Plastic Composite Decking: or WPC, is made from a mix of wood fibers and plastic materials.
Pros: Durable, rot and insect-resistant, and low-maintenance.
Cons: Can fade and scratch over time. It may require periodic cleaning.

2. Capped Composite Decking: is a WPC core with a protective polymer shell.
Pros: Enhanced resistance to fading, staining, and scratching. Available in many colors and textures.
Cons: Typically more expensive than uncapped composite decking.

So, Can You Paint or Stain Composite Decking?

Unfortunately, the short answer is: yes and no. 

While it’s technically possible to paint or stain composite decking, it´s key to highlight that composite decking is primarily designed to be a long-lasting material, saving the need to paint or stain it. Composite decking’ colors are designed to last, ensuring that the material retains its qualities without the need for constant maintenance.

Also, there is another factor: it depends on the type of composite decking you are thinking of painting or staining.

You can easily paint and stain old and uncapped composite deck boards, but modern composite decking boards often come with polymer balls that you don’t need to paint or stain. Even if you have an old deck, painting the composite board may void your warranty and increase your maintenance needs as you will need to stain the wood regularly.

Always call your deck board manufacturer before painting, staining, or coating your composite decking, and consider investing in modern capped composite to reduce your maintenance time and costs.

The Challenges of Painting or Staining Composite Decking

Unlike traditional wood, composite decking doesn’t absorb paint or stain easily due to its plastic content. These can lead to some issues, like the difficulty of adhering completely to the surface, which can result in peeling or chipping over the years. Also, it’s possible that, since the stain does not penetrate evenly, you have an unpleasant result with an inconsistent coloration.

Tips to Paint or Stain Composite Decking

It is not recommended to paint or stain composite decking. If you are considering painting it because of wear and tear, it’s probably time to change the deck. 

However, if you decide to do it, it’s important to contact your deck board manufacturer before painting, staining, or sealing your composite decking.

Choose Composite Decking from Brazilian Lumber

If you decide to paint or stain composite decking, keep in mind that it might involve a great effort with not-so-desired results. To save you this problem, at Brazilian Lumber we offer the best quality of composite decking in a wide variety of colors, designed to beautify your spaces without great effort.

For those homeowners looking for a renovation, our composite decking combines beauty, durability, and ease of maintenance. Whether you’re looking to create a new deck or upgrade an existing one, consider choosing composite decking for long-lasting results.