Black Paint for Wood Surfaces Outdoors
When it comes to painting exterior wood surfaces black, there are some important considerations to make regarding preparation, paint types, application methods, and long-term maintenance.
Black paint can create a dramatic, stylish look on outdoor wood while also protecting it from weathering. However, no paint can endure forever, so proper surface prep and application techniques are key.
Preparing Outdoor Wood Before Painting Black
Before painting any exterior wood black, it's crucial to start with a clean, stable surface so the paint can properly adhere. This means thoroughly cleaning the wood, sanding away loose material, treating any fungal growth, and spot priming as needed.
Cleaning and Sanding Outdoor Wood
Use a stiff bristle brush and exterior wood cleaner to remove dirt, mildew stains, loose flakes of old paint or wood fibers. This removes debris that could prevent the new paint from bonding correctly. Go over nail heads to scrape off rust.
Next, sand the surface with 120-150 grit sandpaper. Smooth out any remaining loose spots, sharp edges, or glossy areas so the new paint can grip. Fully sand down badly weathered grey wood until you reveal fresh non-greying timber underneath.
Applying Wood Primer Before Black Paint
Prime newly exposed raw wood with an exterior wood primer. This seals the surface so knots and sap won't bleed through the finish coat of black paint. For previously painted wood, spot prime any bare areas only.
Oil-based primers provide the very best protection on vulnerable exterior wood surfaces. However, water-based acrylic-latex primers work well too and clean up with soap and water.
Using Paint with Mold Inhibitors
Exterior wood constantly battles moisture, which encourages mold, mildew, and wood rot. Using exterior paint containing fungicides/algaecides helps combat this. The additives prevent fungal growth on the paint film itself.
For extra prevention before painting, consider brushing on a liquid wood preservative. Timbercoat and Woodguard make good options containing insecticides and fungicides.
How to Choose Good Exterior Black Wood Paint
The best black paint for outdoor wood offers maximum protection from sun, rain, snow and humidity. Key considerations include oil vs. latex resin types, sheen level, and UV/mildew resistance.
Comparing Oil and Latex Black Paint
Oil-based paints provide a durable protective finish on exterior wood. The oils penetrate deeper to truly seal porous surfaces. Oil paints expand and contract with the wood better through seasons too.
However, latex acrylics also work well outside. Modern 100% acrylic formulas bond tightly and resist cracking, blistering or peeling. Water-clean-up makes latex paints easier for DIYers to use.
Sheens for Outdoor Black Wood Paint
Flat or matte finishes hide imperfections well but lack durability outside. Satin, low sheen, and eggshell sheens better resist moisture and stains. Gloss and semi-gloss offer the toughest protection but really show flaws.
Consider weather exposure too. Vertical surfaces tolerate gloss or semi-gloss better than horizontal ones. For fences, siding or outdoor furniture choose mid-range satin, eggshell or low sheen paint.
Importance of UV Resistance
Black absorbs heat, so exterior wood paints must include UV-resistant pigments and resins. Quality paint blocks UV rays to prevent premature fading, yellowing, and wood graying.
With darker paint colors especially, sticking to reputable national brand paint designed for outdoor wood gives peace of mind.
Applying Black Paint to Outdoor Wood
Proper application techniques ensure the black paint bonds tightly and lasts longer on exterior wood surfaces. This includes controlling brush strokes, spray painting methods, number of coats to apply, and following recommended drying times.
Brush vs Spray Painting
Brushing black paint onto outdoor wood takes more time and effort but offers better control. Use high-quality nylon/polyester or china bristle brushes. Maintain a wet edge and brush with the wood grain when possible.
Airless spray painting saves labor but risks overspray and uneven coverage. It works best for large uniform surfaces like wood siding or privacy fencing. Use low pressure and back-brush immediately after each section.
Number of Paint Coats Needed
On properly prepared wood, quality black exterior paint only needs two finish coats for long-lasting protection, color and sheen.
New or restored wood may benefit from a third coat for maximum durability since the black shows imperfections easily. Want a super sleek look? Try applying black wood lacquer over top.
Drying Times for Coats
Oil-based paints take longer to dry than latex--usually 8-24 hours between coats. Latex acrylic formulas can recoat within 2-4 hours typically.
Full curing takes about two weeks before the paint film reaches maximum strength and durability. Avoid heavy scuffing or cleaning during this time.
Maintaining Black Painted Outdoor Wood
While quality exterior wood paints resist weathering, sunlight and moisture gradually break down any finish over time. Keeping black painted surfaces looking their best involves cleaning periodically and touching up worn areas.
Washing and Spot Cleaning
Gently wash black painted wood annually using a soft brush and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners or excessive scrubbing pressure.
For stain removal, wipe up spills quickly before they set. Use an appropriate cleaner for that type of stain, then rinse the area thoroughly.
When to Reapply Black Paint
Plan on repainting every 2-4 years to keep wood properly protected. More exposure to sun, rain and wind means painting more frequently.
Look for visible cracking, peeling, blisters, eroded areas or excessive fading. These all indicate a fresh coat of exterior paint is needed to renew the surface.
If black paint peels in small spots, sand the loose edge smooth then use touch-up paint. For peeling over 10% of the surface, completely sand and repaint.
To fix exterior black paint cracking without full sanding, apply elastomeric paint compatible with the existing finish. It flexes to resist further cracking.