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How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Deck?

by | Jan 15, 2025 | Deck Maintenance

Your deck might be looking worse for wear after months of exposure to the elements. How much does it cost to paint a deck? More importantly, how can you ensure your deck not only looks great again but stays protected for years to come? Here are simple maintenance tips and cost-effective solutions to extend your deck’s life and restore its beauty.

How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Deck?

The cost to paint or stain a deck varies based on factors like the deck’s condition and your maintenance goals. If you have a covered deck that’s rarely exposed to weather, you may only need to clean and apply a fresh coat of paint or stain every few years.

For most cedar decks in the Northwest, which are typically uncovered, maintenance requires extra care. Deck painting cost depends on whether you’re using solid stains, which fully cover the wood, or semi-transparent stains, which enhance the natural grain.

  • If the existing coating is intact and just dirty, cleaning and adding one or two new coats costs $1,000–$2,000 for an average-sized deck.
  • If significant prep work is needed, such as scraping or sanding, the cost will increase due to the labor involved.

Deck Painting Cost Factors

Several factors influence deck painting costs, including:

  • Condition of the deck: Decks with peeling paint or extensive damage may require stripping down to bare wood, which increases labor and cost.
  • Type of handrails: Wood handrails often need more preparation, such as sanding, while metal handrails require minimal work.
  • Weather exposure: Fully exposed decks in wet climates require annual maintenance to prevent rot and decay.
  • Additional wear and tear: Debris buildup, pet scratches, and neglect accelerate coating breakdown.

Pro Tip: Adding a patio cover can reduce maintenance costs by protecting your deck from weather exposure.

Understanding Deck Painting Cost Per Hour

Most professional painters or contractors charge between $60–$85 per hour to stain or paint a deck. In regions like Oregon, the short maintenance season typically runs from May to September due to weather limitations.

  • Smaller decks: These cost $1,000–$1,500 if minimal prep is needed.
  • Larger decks or heavily damaged decks: Costs can range from $2,500–$5,000 and may take up to a week to complete.
  • When replacement is better: If a deck is severely damaged, replacing it may be more cost-effective than repeated staining or painting.

Average Cost to Paint a Deck in Portland, Oregon

The average cost to paint a deck in Portland depends on the products used and the level of prep required. Semi-transparent stains are ideal for showcasing wood grain and work well in the Northwest’s wet climate. However, over time, these stains may require stripping and refinishing to maintain effectiveness.

  • Sanding and staining an average-sized deck with semi-transparent stain typically costs $2,000–$4,000.
  • Handrails requiring refinishing can add to the cost.

Best Deck Paint and Stain to Use

At Absolute Painting, we recommend:

  • Armstrong semi-transparent stains: These locally made stains penetrate wood deeply, enhancing its natural beauty while offering excellent protection.
  • Shark Skin solid stains by Cloverdale: These provide durable, full coverage and perform well in wet climates.

For long-lasting results, it’s crucial to stick with the same type of stain already used on the deck. Mixing oil-based and latex stains can lead to poor adhesion and unsatisfactory results.

DIY Tips to Reduce Deck Painting Costs

Maintaining your deck yourself can reduce deck painting costs, but proper preparation is essential. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Work in ideal weather: Choose a warm, overcast day. Avoid staining in rain or direct sunlight.
  2. Prep the surface: Clean thoroughly, allow it to dry, and sand if necessary.
  3. Choose the right products: Stick with the existing stain type—oil-based or latex. Using the wrong type can cause adhesion issues.

Remember: DIY maintenance may save money upfront, but professional work often lasts longer and provides better results.

Benefits of a Painted and Stained Deck

The biggest benefit to staining or painting your deck is that it will protect the wood and it will last longer.  If you have looked at the price of cedar deck boards lately you will understand that replacement is much more expensive than maintenance.  It also keeps the deck looking beautiful so you will enjoy it.

Get Your Deck Painting Estimate Today!

Call Absolute Painting at 503-330-4928 to schedule your free estimate and develop a maintenance plan. Our deck painting cost estimates are tailored to your specific needs, and we work within the limited timeframe of Oregon’s deck maintenance season. Don’t wait—protect your deck today!

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