If you want to build a deck and thinking about a low maintenance structure for such a quest, consider using AZEK. You can use it to make decks, railing, trim, and even pavers. Unlike wood decking, which requires maintenance from time to time, AZEK synthetic decking does not need annual maintenance. What if you want to give it a new color, can you paint AZEK?
Yes, you can paint AZEK, and it will bond very well with the paint. Therefore, if you choose to paint, you should use a 100% acrylic latex paint with colors bearing a Light Reflective Value (LRV) of 55 or more.
A decision to paint AZEK should only be decorative; this material does not necessarily need protection, and adding paint to it does not protect in any way.
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Can You Paint AZEK a Dark Color?
When selecting paint colors for AZEK, you should go for the lighter one. If at all, you are going to choose a darker color with a Light Reflective Value (LRV) below 55, it has to be select a vinyl safe color. The deeper the paint color, the more heat it wil attract. Heat causes a warping on AZEK.
Should AZEK be Primed Before Painting?
If you are looking to paint the surface of your AZEK decking, for example, you should ensure that you wipe down the surface using denatured alcohol to clean and proper preparation of the surface for painting. The paint that you intend to apply must be 100% acrylic. You do not need to prime AZEK whatsoever, all you need to do is apply the topcoat 100% acrylic from a reliable manufacturer. As for color selection, lighter is better.
Will AZEK Deck get Mold on It?
Yes. As long as certain environmental conditions of moisture and temperature prevail, mold and mildew can appear on almost any outdoor surface, and AZEK is no exception. Even so, the molds only occur over the surface of the AZEK boards and cannot penetrate the deck board. You can remove the mold and mildew that appears on the surface of AZEK Deck by using an all-surface deck cleaner. Alternatively, you can use a 1 to 4 mixture of bleach.
What is the Best Way to Clean AZEK Deck?
If you are looking to clean your AZEK Deck/Porch, you should use an all-surface deck cleaner. You could also use any other all-purpose cleaner like Chomp Gutter cleaner, Simple Green, or Krud Kutter Cleaner/Degreaser using a stiff natural fiber brush.
Note: Avoid using abrasive cleaners as they can dull the surface of new boards.
You must read the manufacturer’s specific information on the label of the cleaner before you use it on your AZEK Deck, follow the instructions to the letter. As a safety measure, I recommend that you test the cleaner on a scrap piece of the same material or inconspicuous area of the deck to ensure that it does not harm your surface.
WARNING: Ensure that kids and pets are away from cleaning products as well as your AZEK Deck until the surface dries.
Note: The composite deck cleaners like Corte Clean, Olympic Deck Cleaner, Thompson’s Water Seal-Oxy Action, or other cleaners used for composite deck cleaning in any form, powder, or liquid, must not be used in the cleaning of AZEK Deck/Porch.
Can You Pressure Wash AZEK Decking?
Yes, this material is so durable, therefore, you can power wash it. When you are cleaning, ensure that you keep the pressure under 1200 PSI. People with industrial-strength power washers should ensure that they reduce the pressure levels to fit the use of AZEK products.
How Do You Fill Nail Holes in AZEK Trim?
If the surfaces of your AZEK has small holes, you should use an exterior filler and sand it lightly after it dries out. Alternatively, you can use a paintable caulk and smooth it using your finger.
For the larger holes, fill them using auto body filler, and do the sanding after it cures.
Watch the video below on how to paint AZEK:
Conclusion
AZEK presents low maintenance yet durable material that you can use for your decking instead of using wood that demands annual maintenance practices. So, if you are looking to build a deck and will have busy days with no time for frequent maintenance, then you should use this material. Also,
Can You Paint AZEK?
Yes, you can paint the AZEK products. However, painting is only decorative and does not offer protection in any way. Unless you need to decorate it, AZEK can stay for as long as possible without painting.