No, you should not put primer on your deck before a deck staining or painting project. In this article, we will cover what primer does, why we do not recommend it on decks, what products to use to maintain your deck, and how to get deck stain to stick longer.
What Primer Does
Primer is a crucial component in the process of painting, serving as a base layer that enhances adhesion, promotes durability, and improves the overall finish of the paint job. Primers are formulated with specific properties to create an ideal surface for the application of paint.
One of the primary functions of a primer is to improve adhesion between the surface being painted and the paint itself. Surfaces such as bare wood, metal, drywall, or previously painted surfaces may not provide sufficient adhesion for the paint to adhere properly. The primer creates a bonding layer that helps the paint stick firmly to the surface, preventing peeling, flaking, or chipping over time.
Primers can also seal porous surfaces, such as wood or drywall, to prevent the absorption of paint and ensure a smooth, uniform finish. This prevents the paint from being absorbed unevenly, which can result in a blotchy, streaky, or otherwise non-uniform appearance.
Primers can also block stains and provide a barrier against moisture, preventing issues like rust, mildew, or discoloration from affecting the final paint job. By sealing the surface and providing a stable foundation, primers contribute to the longevity and durability of the painted surface.
Why We Do Not Recommend Primer On Decks
Put simply, decks should be stained and stain does not require a primer. Not only does stain not require a primer, it is completely counterproductive. Stain, unlike paint, works by soaking into the wood surface to provide an enhanced look and further protection. Paint is not recommended for decks as it does not tolerate walking, moving furniture, shoveling, or pets very well over time and will peel. Stain will tolerate these aspects much better if it is allowed to soak into the wood.
If painting your deck is something you’d like to do for aesthetic reasons, consider using a solid stain. For more information, read our article on the differences between paint and solid stain.
When selecting a stain, there are many options. Read our article on the best stain for your deck to help you make a decision. Remember to stain your deck; do not paint it.
How to Get Deck Stain to Last Longer
Ultimately, primer is used to make paint last longer. To make deck stain last as long as possible follow these steps when staining:
Pressure wash your deck prior to staining to clean off mold, algae, dirt, and mildew
Scrape off any flaking stain if necessary
Replace any rotting boards with pressure-treated lumber
Once the wood is dry, apply two coats of a high-quality deck stain to the surface
Do not walk, place furniture, or allow pets on the deck for 48 hours after staining
After the deck has been stained, avoid the following to prevent premature peeling or flaking:
Scraping metal furniture on the deck
Allowing pets with long nails to run full-speed
Shoveling snow with a metal-tipped shovel
Allowing snow to sit on the deck all winter
Salting your deck in winter
Placing an outdoor rug on top of the stain, preventing ventilation
For more on this, read our article on Stain Failure.
Deck staining can be a complicated task with many rules and techniques that many homeowners do not have time to learn. If you are looking to hire a trustworthy deck staining contractor, contact EcoWash.