Homeowners are always looking for an alternative to a deck replacement. When wood is neglected, it can be expensive to have it restored or replaced. A few companies like Behr and Rust-Oleum are selling a deck resurface product. They claim it is the smart alternative to deck replacement. It can be applied to wood surfaces such as decks, stairs, docks, composite decking, and more. So is it a good alternative or is it just a waste of time and money?
What tests are showing is that these products are prone to peeling despite what the manufacturers are claiming. With any film-forming product, peeling is always an issue. It still seems to stand true that anything subjected to the elements will not hold up for more than a couple of years.
Another issue with the deck resurfacing products is that they create a whole host of maintenance and removal issues. With conventional wood restoration, the ease of maintenance using a wood stain is what helps the deck look so good for many years. It also allows you to easily remove the product if you want a different look. With deck resurfacing, maintenance is almost non-existent and good luck trying to remove such a thick heavy product. Basically, once the product is on the deck you are stuck with it.
Here is some info regarding a class action lawsuit for the Rust Oleum line of this product