How can I safely remove peeling paint from my deck and prevent chipping in the future without harming my garden or the environment?
Asked by Gary Ross 
2 months ago
Last Updated: September 12, 2024
I have a bit of a dilemma with the paint on our deck. We’ve tried power washing and using a couple of sanders, but the paint just won’t come off. I’m hesitant to resort to a paint stripper because I’m worried about the toxic chemicals. Any tips on how to remove the paint without using a stripper? And any advice on how to prevent the paint from peeling like this in the future? If a paint stripper is the only option, how can I make sure it doesn’t harm my garden beds or yard? Thanks for any help you can give me! 💛
‘t overthink it if you’re planning to repaint. Just get rid of the old loose paint and paint over the rest.
Honestly, if you’re repainting, you don’t have to remove all the old paint – just the loose and peeling parts. You’ve already taken the necessary steps. If some paint is still stuck, it means it adhered well.
Simply remove any loose paint and reapply another coat. It doesn’t have to be perfect if you’re planning on repainting it.
Look for textured deck paint, apply it with a brush on the edges, and then roll it on. If the old paint is sanded and not coming off easily, that’s okay. It may be rough enough for the new paint to adhere properly.
Have you done a test for lead?
Consider using a gas-powered pressure washer, but be mindful of the tip selection. Depending on the wood’s hardness, you may need to lightly sand the surface after pressure washing. You could also apply a stain instead of paint.
For sanding paint, you’ll need a more aggressive sander like a random orbital sander with 40 or 60 grit paper. A belt sander could work, but be cautious as it can remove a lot of material quickly. For large areas, consider renting a floor sander with multiple orbital pads for easier use. Check local rental stores or home improvement centers.
I recently started woodworking and painting, and I’ve learned my lesson about sanding. It’s not a good idea to paint outdoor wood like a deck because it can speed up deterioration. It’s healthier to let the wood breathe. If you want a different look, consider using a sealer or stain, but it’s best to consult a professional. Renting a sandblaster could be more effective. If the wood is already peeling, it might be best to replace it with new wood. If you plan on painting again, focus on what comes off easily. You don’t necessarily have to strip it completely.
Try using a heat gun to soften the paint before scraping it off. It might get messy, so proceed with caution.
Forgive me if I’m assuming you might not be too familiar with this, but it seems like you don’t have sandpaper on your sander.
My husband thought he had removed the sandpaper before taking the picture, but I didn’t even notice he had taken the picture without it! 😄
That would be a major mistake. Haha
Thanks for explaining the obvious, John. 🤬
Can you please refrain from explaining my explanations in a condescending manner?
You never know, has a great eye for observation and asking questions.
The original poster wasn’t offended, but you were… Only those who are easily influenced get offended by words…
To be honest, , explained it so kindly and respectfully. Was that really mansplaining? I don’t think so. 😊
Came here to express his opinion in a diplomatic way.
Those types of sanders may not be the best for your project. What grit paper did you use? It should have worked better with a coarser grit. However, if you’re just repainting, it doesn’t have to be perfect. Just remove the loose parts and paint over it.
Hey Joshua, make sure to prep properly so the outcome isn’t uneven.
Can you rent a floor sander for me?
If you give stripping a try, consider using citistrip or denatured alcohol. Different paints require different removal methods, so it’s helpful to know what kind of paint you’re dealing with. For latex paint, a heat gun can make it easy to peel off.
Hey, did your neighbor also lend you the hole punch for the Sander? You’ll need it to punch out all those little circles from the sandpaper.
If it’s pressure treated wood, definitely avoid sanding it since it can produce harmful sawdust that is carcinogenic.
I agree with the others. Remove the peeling/loose parts, powerwash the deck to get rid of dirt, and then repaint using textured deck paint or exterior latex in your preferred color
I agree with you, John.
Make sure to use a high-quality scraper.
Start by using a scrapper to remove any loose paint. rab a high grit sand paper, typically green. It doesn’t need to be flawless. After that, apply a coat of paint with a roller and use a brush for the corners.
Thanks everyone for the helpful tips, I’ll definitely try some of these out!
I personally wouldn’t recommend using a random orbital sander in this case. A belt sander would be a more effective choice. If you opt not to sand, citrus strip and plastic wrap are great for removing paint.
It seems like you’ve received some questionable advice. For a simpler approach, here are two options: Option #1 – Scrape off loose debris, sand with an 80-grit orbital sander (changing pads frequently), then apply two coats of Sherwin Williams deck scapes solid body stain. Option #2 – Clean the surface, scrape off loose debris, and apply two coats of Sherwin Williams deck scapes solid body stain.
I recommend renting a floor sander, it’ll be totally worth it. That’s what we did for our pool deck.
After you finish, avoid using a solid paint or stain. I recommend using a semi-transparent stain as directed, it will wear off naturally over time.
Try a rougher grit sandpaper with a stronger sander
Just flip the boards over, that should work!
You don’t have to completely strip it to repaint. Just remove the loose bits, power wash it to clean it, let it dry, then paint. Simple as that
You’ve got this, !
Thinking about painting it again? Or maybe staining it?
If you’re planning to paint it, your main focus should be smoothing out the edges of the paint that’s not peeling. Once it’s smooth to the touch, wash it, wipe it, prime it, and paint.
Consider using a stain instead of paint. My porch floor boards (gray) have been stained – as well as the exterior ledger boards in white. It lasted a long time (25 yrs) and needs a touch up, but without the flaking mess.
You could rent a belt sander or one of those square-head floor sanders to get the job done quickly.
Rowing up, I learned from that it’s all about being affordable and aiming for perfection in your preparation. I watched plenty of videos and always tested a spot before going all in. Just remember, you can do it!
Let’s join a deck group.
Why would need to do that to get rid of the paint?
You might want to give a belt sander a shot. You can also test out a sturdy wire brush
Maybe go for a belt sander or consider renting a sand blaster.
I opted for a belt sander.
When you’re using a belt sander, make sure to sand with the grain, not against it.
Rab a Mapp as torch and scraper.
Consider renting a floor sander to strip off paint.
Et a heat gun from harbor freight
Belt sanders do a great job!
Start with an 80 grit belt sander
Rent a floor sander. Piece of cake. 👍🏼
Rent a floor sander from your nearby tool rental spot. Many close on weekends so if you go on Fridays after 1, you pay for a day and have it for the weekend
Using water on furniture is a terrible idea and you may have caused some damage. Consider buying paint stripper instead.
You can find a good heavy-duty belt sander at Harbor Freight for $90.00.
I decided to use a grinder on mine! It was super simple and didn’t take long to remove it.
Ensure that the paint is not lead-based, as it can be harmful to your health.
Attach one of these to an angle grinder. If you don’t have one, you can borrow mine. Alternatively, you can rent a floor sander from Russell Do It Center in Prattville. Using those may require some practice, so make sure you have enough sandpaper.
I heard that Harbor Freight is selling angle grinders for just $10.
A sanding disc on a grinder works the fastest. Regular sanders are too slow. You can find them on Amazon.
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Using 120 grit with an orbital sander works great, . Just be prepared to go through a lot of sanding discs for the truss job.
Opt for a physical scraper to remove the paint.
For some types of paint, using a heat gun and pie knife has worked well for me in the past. It’s still quite a bit of effort though.