How To Paint Wood

Knowing how to paint wood properly is dependent on what you wish to paint. Exterior jobs require different tactics than interior jobs. The focus here is to paint pressure treated wood, because the process is very different than painting more common types of wood. This type of wood is primarily used for wooden decks and porches. As is the case in most painting projects properly preparing the surface before you start painting is critical to success.

The tools needed are:

• Preservative for pressure treated wood
• Standard paint brush
• Paint sprayer
• Exterior paint for wood

1. Pressure treated wood is a type of wood that has been saturated with chemicals. This process makes the wood rot and insect resistant. However, coating your pressure treated deck or porch with a preservative is still required to prevent weathering of the wood. New decks should be preservative coated as soon as possible.
2. Once the preservative has been applied it is imperative to wait three months before you start painting. This cannot be emphasized enough. Your project will last longer and have a more professional look if you wait the three months.
3. When you are ready to paint make sure to choose an exterior paint that is formulated for pressure treated wood. Expect this paint to cost more than regular paint. It is best to paint pressure treated wood with a latex based paint, rather than oil. Latex paint will expand and contract depending on the climate, and will less likely crack. Of course, it is better to apply two thin coats rather than one thick coat.
4. The last step is to choose what method to use to paint your deck. You can certainly speed up the process with spray painting. However, this method is only recommended if your deck is large. Brushing does take more time, but you will be able to really work the paint into the wood, and fill all those tiny crevices that spraying tends to miss.

As has been mentioned, properly preparing pressure treated wood before you start to paint is important for a successful project. Properly apply a preservative specifically designed for this type of wood, and wait the required three months before painting. Follow these steps and you will have a long-lasting and professional looking deck or porch.