Grey is taking centre stage in the design of outdoor living areas, according to experts from Thorndown, a leading UK eco-friendly paint brand. The versatile colour is proving a popular choice for decking and other outdoor spaces, offering both style and practicality.
Thorndown’s Managing Director, Ben Thornborough, highlighted grey’s growing popularity, noting its ability to mask dirt and provide a neutral backdrop for outdoor entertaining. “When it comes to revamping tired decking, grey is incredibly versatile. It hides the dirt that naturally accumulates in gardens and creates a sleek, modern look,” he said.
Decking, often subject to wear and tear from both foot traffic and weather conditions, can quickly lose its appeal. With exposure to rain, ice, and direct sunlight, decking requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. According to Caroline Thornborough, Thorndown’s Design Director, decking is “like a high-maintenance lover – it demands a lot of attention.”
To help homeowners breathe new life into their decking, Thorndown’s team has shared expert tips on how to make the process easier and more effective.
The first step is a thorough clean, ensuring that all dirt, algae, and surface residue are removed. If using a power washer, they advise allowing plenty of time for the decking to dry completely, as water jets can force moisture deep into the timber. The timber must be dry before applying any paint to avoid issues later.
The next stage involves removing any loose or flaking old paint by sanding. However, if the previous coating is still sound, sanding can be skipped, but the surface should be clean and dry. If painting a light colour over new decking, Thorndown recommends applying a stain-blocking primer to prevent tannin stains and resin bleeds from showing through.
Ben Thornborough emphasised the importance of careful preparation. “Stir the paint thoroughly before and during use. Buy sample tins to ensure the colour is exactly what you want.”
When it comes to painting, the experts suggest applying the paint with a sprayer, roller, or brush, making sure to reach all the nooks and crannies of the decking. “Ensure the paint gets into the grooves on the decking board surface, as well as the sides of the boards,” Caroline Thornborough advised.
The first coat of Thorndown Wood Paint can be touch dry within 30 minutes to an hour in warm, dry conditions, and a second coat can be applied after that. A second coat will intensify the colour and improve the durability of the finish. However, the team advises against walking on the freshly painted decking for 24 hours, as the paint will still be curing and can be easily marked.
Thorndown’s eco-friendly wood paint range, including the popular grey shades, is available from the company’s website, with prices starting at £22 for a 750ml tin.
With the increasing popularity of outdoor living spaces, the appeal of grey as a practical yet stylish option continues to rise. For more details on Thorndown’s products and expert advice, visit www.thorndown.co.uk.
