Giving your outdoor furniture a fresh coat of spray paint can totally transform your patio or deck. It’s way cheaper than buying new stuff, and you can customize the color to perfectly match your style. I’ve tried a bunch of different spray paints over the years, some with great results and others that chipped and faded way too fast. Finding the right one makes all the difference in how long your furniture looks good. So, I’ve put together my list of the top spray paints for outdoor furniture to help you choose.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Cover Paint + Primer: Best overall for its durability and coverage.
- Krylon Fusion All-In-One Spray Paint: Excellent adhesion to various surfaces, including plastic.
- Design Master 740 Clear Guard: Ideal for providing a protective, clear top coat.
- Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Hammered Metal Finish: Great for a unique, textured look and rust prevention.
- Thompsons WaterSeal Waterproofer Plus Clear Wood Protector: Top choice for protecting wooden furniture from water damage.
Top 5 Best Spray Paint For Outdoor Furniture
1. Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Cover Paint + Primer
Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Cover Paint + Primer is a fantastic all-in-one solution that saves time and effort. It provides excellent coverage, meaning you’ll likely need fewer coats. Plus, it’s designed to work on various surfaces, making it versatile for different types of outdoor furniture.
Pros:
- ✅ Superior coverage, often requiring only one or two coats.
- ✅ Dries quickly, allowing for faster project completion.
- ✅ Available in a wide range of colors and finishes.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be prone to drips if applied too heavily.
- ❌ Some users report the nozzle clogging occasionally.
- ❌ The finish might be too glossy for some preferences.
Verdict: Great for anyone who wants a quick, easy, and durable finish on their outdoor furniture. It’s especially good if you want to change the color dramatically.
2. Krylon Fusion All-In-One Spray Paint
Krylon Fusion All-In-One Spray Paint is known for its exceptional adhesion, even on tricky surfaces like plastic and resin. This eliminates the need for a separate primer in many cases, saving you a step. It’s a solid choice for revitalizing plastic chairs and tables that have seen better days.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent adhesion to plastic, metal, wood, and more.
- ✅ No sanding or priming required on most surfaces.
- ✅ Durable, weather-resistant finish.
Cons:
- ❌ Color selection might be limited compared to other brands.
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some other spray paint options.
- ❌ May require multiple coats for full coverage on dark surfaces.
Verdict: Perfect for restoring plastic furniture or any project where adhesion is a concern. It’s user-friendly and provides a long-lasting finish.
3. Design Master 740 Clear Guard
Design Master 740 Clear Guard isn’t a color paint, but it’s an essential for protecting your painted furniture. This clear coat adds a layer of protection against scratches, UV damage, and moisture. Think of it as sunscreen for your furniture.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a durable, clear protective layer.
- ✅ Helps prevent fading and damage from UV rays.
- ✅ Extends the life of your paint job.
Cons:
- ❌ Doesn’t add any color or change the existing finish.
- ❌ Requires a well-ventilated area for application.
- ❌ Can be overkill for furniture that’s already well-protected.
Verdict: Ideal for anyone who wants to preserve and protect their newly painted outdoor furniture from the elements. It’s a worthwhile investment for long-term durability.
4. Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Hammered Metal Finish
Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Hammered Metal Finish offers a unique, textured look while also providing excellent rust protection. This paint is designed to create a hammered metal appearance, which can hide imperfections and add visual interest. If you like a rustic or industrial vibe, this is a great option.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a unique hammered metal texture.
- ✅ Excellent rust prevention properties.
- ✅ Durable and weather-resistant finish.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited color options compared to other paints.
- ❌ The textured finish may not be for everyone.
- ❌ Can be tricky to apply evenly for beginners.
Verdict: Best for those looking for a durable, rust-resistant finish with a distinctive look. It’s particularly well-suited for metal furniture that needs a refresh.
5. Thompsons WaterSeal Waterproofer Plus Clear Wood Protector
Thompsons WaterSeal Waterproofer Plus Clear Wood Protector is specifically designed to protect wooden furniture from water damage. This clear sealant penetrates the wood to create a waterproof barrier, preventing rot and decay. If you have wooden chairs, tables, or benches, this is a must-have.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent water protection for wood.
- ✅ Prevents rot, decay, and warping.
- ✅ Clear finish won’t alter the natural look of the wood.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires reapplication every year or two for optimal protection.
- ❌ Not suitable for painted or stained wood.
- ❌ Can have a strong odor during application.
Verdict: Essential for anyone with wooden outdoor furniture that wants to protect it from the elements. It’s easy to apply and provides long-lasting water protection.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right spray paint for your outdoor furniture involves a few key considerations. Here’s a breakdown to help you make the best choice:
- Material of Your Furniture: Different materials require different types of paint. Plastic, metal, and wood all have unique needs. For plastic, look for paints that specifically adhere to plastic, like Krylon Fusion. For metal, rust-resistant paints like Rust-Oleum Stops Rust are ideal. For wood, consider a waterproofer like Thompsons WaterSeal.
- Desired Finish: Do you want a glossy, matte, or textured finish? Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Cover offers a variety of finishes. If you want a unique look, consider Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Hammered Metal Finish.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Outdoor furniture needs to withstand the elements. Look for paints that are specifically formulated for outdoor use and offer UV protection to prevent fading.
- Ease of Application: Some paints require multiple coats or special techniques. If you’re a beginner, opt for a paint that’s easy to apply and offers good coverage with minimal effort, like Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Cover.
- Primer: Some paints have primer included, which can save you a step. If you’re painting a surface that’s difficult to adhere to, like plastic or metal, a paint with primer is a good choice.
- Color Selection: Consider the existing colors in your outdoor space and choose a paint color that complements them. Also, check the availability of colors for the specific paint you’re considering.
- Budget: Spray paint prices can vary widely. Consider your budget and choose a paint that offers the best value for your money. Sometimes, spending a bit more on a higher-quality paint can save you money in the long run by providing better durability and coverage.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to sand my furniture before painting?
A: It depends on the condition of your furniture. If it’s smooth and the existing finish is in good shape, you may not need to sand. However, if there’s rust, peeling paint, or a glossy finish, sanding will help the new paint adhere better. For plastic, using a cleaner/degreaser is a good idea to improve adhesion.
Q: How many coats of spray paint do I need?
A: Generally, two thin coats are better than one thick coat. This helps prevent drips and ensures even coverage. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Q: How long does spray paint take to dry?
A: Drying times vary depending on the paint and the weather conditions. Check the product label for specific drying times. Generally, allow at least 30 minutes to an hour between coats, and 24 hours for the paint to fully cure.
Q: Can I spray paint wicker furniture?
A: Yes, but it can be tricky. Use light, even coats to avoid drips and ensure the paint gets into all the nooks and crannies. Flexible paints are best.
Q: Is it better to spray paint or use a brush?
A: For outdoor furniture, spray paint is often the better choice because it provides a smooth, even finish and can reach tight spots more easily than a brush. However, for larger, flat surfaces, a brush may be more efficient.
Conclusion
Revitalizing your outdoor furniture with spray paint is a simple and cost-effective way to give your patio or deck a fresh new look. By choosing the right paint for the job and following a few basic tips, you can achieve professional-looking results that will last for years. Whether you’re looking to protect your wooden furniture from water damage, add a pop of color to your plastic chairs, or give your metal furniture a rust-resistant finish, there’s a spray paint out there that’s perfect for your needs. So, grab a can of your favorite paint and get ready to transform your outdoor space!
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
