can you paint trex decking
Daniel Johnston
Updated on August 01, 2026
Yes. Although composite decks are not designed to be painted, they can still accept a paint layer nicely. Clean the surface properly and allow it to dry. Sand the composite surface to be painted along the direction of the grain.
How do I make my Trex deck look new again?
You can perform a semiannual cleaning on your composite deck to preserve its longevity.
Step 1: Pre-spray your deck. Step 2: Spray with soapy water & scrub. Step 3: Rinse thoroughly. Step 1: Pre-rinse. Step 2: Mix up your vinegar solution. Step 3: Sprinkle baking soda. Step 4: Rinse thoroughly.
Should Trex be painted?
In order to make the trex or composite decking look as good as possible, you should put a coat of paint on it. Although manufacturers demand that the color of trex or composite decking is permanent, they will surely fade in time.
Can you resurface Trex decking?
Resurfacing your deck with trex® is easy to do, and the results are easy to love. If the boards on your existing deck are looking a bit worn – and the foundation and deck framing system are sound – you can simply replace the walking surfaces and deck railings with Trex decking and railing.
Can you change the color of Trex decking?
A: You are correct. Vintage Trex decking and other brands of composite decking made of a uniform mixture of wood fibers and plastic can be painted or even stained. Newer styles of composite decking capped with a shell of different material on the top and sides of boards cannot.
Can you stain old Trex decking?
A: You are correct. Vintage Trex decking and other brands of composite decking made of a uniform mixture of wood fibers and plastic can be painted or even stained.
How do you paint old Trex decking?
Yes. Trex decking can be painted or even stained with proper surface preparation. First, you need to clean the deck, scuff it, and prime it to accept paint. Ensure you use an acrylic latex exterior primer and a latex paint with a semi-gloss or satin finish for this purpose.
Can you powerwash Trex?
Trex does not recommend the use of a pressure washer. The use of a pressure washer on deck surface could damage the decking surface and will void the warranty with respect to any condition caused by the pressure washing.
Can you use Behr DeckOver on composite decking?
For weathered composite surfaces use BEHR PREMIUM ADVANCED DeckOver® to bring new life to old composite decks. See our how-to’s “Prep Your Wood: Weathered Wood” for guidelines on properly preparing your composite surface. A quality pump sprayer may be used when applying wood finishes.
What is the best cleaner for Trex decking?
Trex recommends Olympic Premium Deck Cleaner or Expert Chemical Composite Deck Cleaner & Enhancer.
Using a deck wash with bleach can lighten the color of your deck. If you don’t want to use a bleach cleaner, you can use UltraMean, but it will require more scrubbing.
Can you power wash a composite deck?
Pressure washing is not usually recommended for composite decking. If done incorrectly, it can be a big mistake. Pressure washing too close or using too much pressure can be ruinous for your deck. Composite decking material is softer than natural wood and therefore can be “etched” more easily.
How do you paint composite?
Painting Fiber Cement Composites
Use a pressure washer to clean the surface.Wait two to four hours for the cement composite to dry.Apply a primer.Wait for the primer to dry. Check the product instructions, but generally, it can take up to two hours. Apply the paint in the same manner as you applied the primer.
How do you restore faded composite decking?
If your wood rich composite decking is looking faded and worn, it’s time for a refresh! The RockSolid Composite Deck Refresh product line is an all encompassing solution. Our stain remover and cleaner work great at cleaning and preparing the surface of your composite deck for the refresh toner.
How do you get scratches out of Trex decking?
Here are some methods you can use to fix scratches on your composite deck:
Fill nicks and scratches with an epoxy-based filler and a putty knife. Try the heat method. Replace scratched boards with new ones. Consider consulting the manufacturer or retailer about your scratched decking.
How long does a Trex deck last?
Trex and TimberTech Composite Decking Warranties
Composite decks have a lifespan of at least 25 to 30 years — and they have warranties to match.
Is Trex decking slippery when wet?
Trex decking is a low-maintenance decking solution that requires a fraction of the work of wood decks and is less likely to get slippery when wet. It still requires occasional attention to keep it looking its best, but you’ll be delighted with the finished results.
Can you paint decking boards?
Painting your deck is a great way to bring vibrant color to your outdoor living area. Typically, homeowners paint railings, stairs, and posts but stain the decking. That’s because stain tends to hold up better to foot traffic than paint. Nevertheless, painting decking boards is definitely possible.
How do you get paint off a composite deck?
Cleaning the deck is simple. Spray the painted or stained area on the Trex with the Krud Kutter, then let it sit for a few minutes. Next, scrub it lightly with a plastic brush until the paint is removed. Lastly, rinse the affected area with water.