Most of us are aware that if you’re updating your garden with paint, you need to use a specialist outdoor formula designed to withstand the elements. But, did you know that this is not a one-size-fits-all? Woodcare expert Jimmy Englezos warns homeowners about the common mistake that he’s seen time and time again in gardens – using fence paint on your decking.
A study by Ronseal found that over half (56 per cent) of 500 homeowners said they would use fence paint on decking. It sounds like a harmless idea: decking and fences are both wooden, and they are both outside after all, but Jimmy reveals three key reasons why painting your decking with fence paint could be a very costly mistake.
1. The paint will be less durable
Using fence paint on decking will leave you with a less durable finish. ‘Whilst you may not notice the difference at first, over time the paint will likely start to peel and flake off leaving you with patchy-looking decking,’ says Jimmy. ‘Fence paints are not designed to handle foot traffic, so it won’t be able to stand up to the task. This means the paint will need to be replaced more often, which will increase your overall decking maintenance costs.’
2. Your wood will be left exposed to the elements
Secondly, and as a result of the paint peeling away, your decking will be left exposed to the elements. ‘As the fence paint peels off, the decking becomes vulnerable to the weather. Paint acts as a layer of protection, so once this is gone, your decking is likely to crack and warp, and even get wood rot,’ Jimmy explains.
3. Fence paint will create a slip hazard
Finally, and most importantly, Jimmy points our that using fence paint on decking will create a slipping hazard. ‘Fence paint does not have an anti-slip coating, so it will cause the decking to be extremely slippery when wet. Most decking paints and stains have anti-slip properties that provide a safer space for walking, especially when the deck is wet from rainfall. Without this coating, decking can become extremely slippery, which can lead to injuries.’
So if you’re looking to paint your decking, ensure you buy specialist decking paint. ‘Specialised decking products such as decking paints, varnishes, and oils can all be used to help treat and protect decking from the elements,’ Jimmy says. ‘Each of these treatments has different finishes – from natural-looking, subtle shades to bright and bold statement tones. Whether you want to primarily protect, refresh, or enhance, there’s a formula for you.’
So as the warm weather allows us to spend time in our gardens and therefore to spot all the jobs that need doing, don’t think that using up that old tin of fence paint on your decking will save you some money. In the long run, it could end up costing you a lot more.
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