Covering an old deck can provide numerous benefits such as protecting the wood, making the space more usable, and improving the appearance. When considering the best method for deck coverage, homeowners must weigh factors like cost, durability, and ease of installation. The easiest route is often a removable outdoor carpet, but other options like paint, tiles, or laminate sheets may be better long-term solutions. Read on for a detailed comparison of popular deck covering options to help you choose the best fit for your needs and skill level.
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Should You Cover an Old Deck?
Before exploring specific methods, consider the pros and cons of covering a deck versus leaving the old wood exposed:
Reasons to Cover an Old Deck
- Protects wood from sun damage, moisture, and pests
- Provides an updated, uniform appearance
- Makes the space more useable year-round
- Offers a safer walking surface
- Conceals flaws like cracks, splinters, and holes
- Often less expensive than full deck replacement
Reasons to Leave an Old Deck Uncovered
- Avoids the cost and labor of installing coverings
- Preserves the natural wood look
- Allows rainwater to easily drain through gaps
- Maintains better airflow to prevent moisture issues
- Provides better traction in wet weather over some coverings
For most aging decks, the benefits of protection and improved appearance outweigh the downsides. Unless the deck is actively used for entertainment and aesthetics are a key concern, some type of covering is usually advisable.
Outdoor Carpet
Outdoor or deck carpet is one of the easiest and quickest solutions for covering an old deck. The carpet comes in rolls or interlocking tiles, which can be installed with basic tools and supplies:
- Utility knife
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Adhesive (for rolled carpet)
- Deck screws or nails (for carpet tiles)
Deck carpet is made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene that resist fading, mold, and mildew. The steps for installation are:
- Clear debris from the deck and make any necessary repairs.
- Measure the deck area and cut carpet to size as needed.
- Apply adhesive according to product directions if using rolls.
- Unroll or interlock the carpet tiles into place.
- Secure perimeter edges with nails, screws, or adhesive.
Outdoor carpeting offers these advantages:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low cost material | Can look cheap if not installed properly |
| Easy DIY installation | Not very durable for high traffic |
| Wide selection of colors/patterns | Needs frequent cleaning |
| Provides cushioned surface | Can retain moisture and odors |
| Minimal deck preparation needed | Traps debris and dirt |
| Removable and replaceable | Not ideal for barefoot use |
Deck carpet offers a fast and budget-friendly solution, but lacks durability for the long haul. It requires frequent cleaning and replacement every 2-5 years. For a sturdy deck covering with lasting performance, other options are preferable.
Deck Tiles
Deck tiles provide a versatile covering solution that is easy to install directly over old deck boards. They interlock together without adhesive or fasteners. The tiles are made from materials like plastic, composite, porcelain, or metal. Benefits include:
- Easy “floating” installation
- Interlocking system stays secure
- No damage to existing deck
- Variety of color and pattern options
- Can match to replace specific damaged deck boards
- Protects wood from weathering
- Non-slip texture for safety
- Resists fading, stains, and mold
Deck tiles do have a higher upfront cost than carpet. Prices range from $3-20 per square foot. Plastic or composite options cost less than upscale porcelain or metal. Follow these installation steps:
- Make any necessary structural deck repairs first.
- Clean the deck surface thoroughly.
- Measure the total square footage to determine materials needed.
- Snap chalk lines to establish a straight tile layout.
- Lay the tiles in place row by row, interlocking the edges.
- Use spacers between final row and edges for expansion.
With proper installation, deck tiles require very little maintenance besides occasional soap and water cleaning. Advantages over carpet include durability, appearance, and ease of cleaning. The tiles also remain securely in place through years of use.
Paint or Stain
Applying paint or semi-transparent deck stain offers a budget-friendly way to improve the appearance of old weathered boards. It also helps seal and protect the wood. Paint provides a vibrant new color, while stain allows some of the grain and texture to show through.
Painting is best for decks in good condition with minimal cracks and splintering. Here are the basic steps:
- Inspect the deck and make all necessary repairs.
- Clean thoroughly and allow to dry completely.
- Apply deck paint primer allowing proper dry time.
- Apply two coats of exterior deck paint.
Stain can be applied to decks in less than perfect shape since it partially penetrates into the wood. The process is similar but skips the primer. Be sure to apply an exterior wood stain formulated for decks. General advantages of paint and stain include:
- Shows off natural wood texture
- Wide range of color options
- Lower cost than new wood or composite
- Seals wood from moisture damage
- Resists mildew and stains
- Can match existing deck color scheme
Over time, both paint and stain will start to peel, crack, and fade. Expect to reapply every 2-4 years. Proper prep and application extend the life significantly. Paint and stain require more elbow grease than other coverings but give a classic, natural wood appearance.
PVC Deck Coating
PVC deck coatings provide an alternative to paint that results in a more durable, waterproof finish. The coatings contain PVC resin, acrylic binders, and titanium dioxide pigments.brands like Klear Kote and Duradek. Advantages include:
- Seamless waterproof membrane
- Customizable slip-resistant texture
- Abrasion and impact resistant
- Minimal surface prep needed
- Long lifespan of 10+ years
- Resists fading, scuffs, stains
Installation is fast and easy with a textured roller:
- Clean deck thoroughly and make any repairs.
- Mask off surrounding areas not being coated.
- Apply primer if recommended.
- Roll on 2-3 coats as directed.
PVC deck coatings cost more than paint at $4-8 per square foot but deliver greater durability and longevity. The waterproofing provides excellent protection for vulnerable old decking.
Sheet Vinyl
Sheet vinyl provides a seamless, waterproof covering for worn out decks. The material is affordable, easy to install, and very durable. First, the deck surface must be as smooth as possible. High spots can telegraph through the vinyl. Use an underlayment like thin plywood if the old deck is uneven. Other benefits include:
- Seamless coverage with no joints
- Easy DIY installation
- Low cost at $1-3 per square foot
- Waterproof and weatherproof
- Wide selection of colors and patterns
- Resists stains, scratches, and moisture
For installation, follow these basic steps:
- Make any necessary repairs and ensure a smooth surface.
- Clean the deck thoroughly and allow to dry.
- Spread exterior-grade adhesive using a notched trowel.
- Unroll vinyl sheet into position and smooth out air pockets.
- Trim excess material around posts and edges.
Like carpet, sheet vinyl requires an adhesive application. But it results in a more attractive, seamless finish that protects the old deck for years. With proper installation, sheet vinyl can last over 10 years before replacement is needed.
Plastic or Synthetic Deck Boards
For a more labor-intensive project, you can cover an old deck by installing new synthetic deck boards. Plastic or composite boards install just like traditional lumber using deck screws. The benefits include:
- Mimics the look of real wood
- Long lifespan of up to 25 years
- Low-maintenance material
- Resists moisture, fading, and staining
- No visible seams or surface defects
- Often lower cost than wood
Installation steps involve:
- Removing old deck boards
- Adding new joists and support if needed
- Fastening new deck boards with screws
- Installing rails, posts, and stairs as needed
This extensive project has a higher upfront cost than other coverings. But it provides long-term durability, while maintaining the pleasing look of wood grain. For a deck needing structural reinforcement, synthetic boards are a smart investment.
Conclusion
When evaluating the easiest solution for covering an old deck, removable carpet tiles are the most beginner-friendly. They install directly over existing boards and can be replaced as needed. For a more permanent upgrade, deck tiles interlock together for durable, low-maintenance coverage.
Painting or staining takes more prep work but allows the natural wood texture to remain visible. PVC coatings offer the ultimate protection with a waterproof, skid-resistant finish that lasts over a decade. For a compromise between cost, longevity, and ease, sheet vinyl is an ideal solution.
In the end, consider how much effort you are willing to invest, your budget, and how long you plan to stay in the home. With the right covering, you can add years of life to an old deck and make the space beautiful and enjoyable once again.