Hi, I am Scott Paul, a leading exterior restoration contractor and business owner with over 30 years of experience in exterior wood. My Deck Revive Resurface Coatings reviews and help tips are based on my history as a wood restoration contractor and actual hands-on testing, all designed to present you with the top product choices. See here for more info about me.
- Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive outperformed Rust-Oleum Deck Restore and Behr Deck Over in a rigorous 24-cycle Freeze/Thaw performance test.
- Unlike competing resurfacers, Deck Revive is breathable, allowing moisture to escape, which helps prevent the peeling and cracking that kills other coatings.
- Deck Revive fills cracks, locks down splinters and nailheads, and delivers a slip-resistant textured surface that lasts years, not just one season.
- At $290 per kit, it covers 200 sq. ft. in two coats, comes in any color, and is VOC compliant in all states.
Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive Review 2026
This review is from a third party. I have personally used the product numerous times throughout the last four years. It has not failed like the other Deck Resurface types. Reading the comments and reviews from consumers below, you will see that the results have been excellent. This review is not an outdoor field test but a Freeze/Thaw test.
Deck Revive is a DIY acrylic-based polymer deck coating that resurfaces old decks, docks, and other treated lumber — in ANY color you choose. Deck Revive repairs and protects wood structures from the constant expansion and contraction cycle that destroys wood.
Traditional deck stains, paints, and sealers just apply a new color to old splinters, cracks, and nailheads and have to be reapplied annually. Deck Revive actually fills in cracks and knots, locks down splinters and nailheads, and provides a new slip-resistant textured surface that lasts for years.
Unlike other “Deck Resurfacer” type products, Deck Revive is breathable, allowing moisture to escape.
Deck Revive Freeze-Thaw Performance Test
Scope: Test comparison of Rust-Oleum Deck Restore, Behr Deck Over, and Gulf Synthetics DeckRevive.
3-Step Test Parameters:
- The front panel and edges were coated according to manufacturer-recommended application instructions, leaving the back of the panel untreated.
- The panel was fully submerged in water at room temperature for 24 hours, removed from the water, placed in 15° Fahrenheit freezer for 24 hours, and removed and allowed to recover at room temperature. This process constitutes one cycle.
- As of this published overview of freeze/thaw testing, the panel has been exposed to 24 cycles.
Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive Test Results
- Deck Restore was initially soft and somewhat recovered but can be removed from the substrate with little effort. There was no evidence of substrate cracking through the coating.
- Deck Over was slightly softened and fully recovered, but due to its lack of film build compared to the other coatings, it displayed substrate cracking through the coating.
- Deck Revive slightly softened but fully recovered within the 24-hour room temperature portion
Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive Testing Video
Product Information:
Web site: Gulf Synthetics
Cost: $290 per Kit
Stain Type: Solid Color Deck Surfacer, water-based
Available Colors: Any Color
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats Required: 2 Coats.
Coverage Per Gallon: 200 sq. ft for 2 coats per kit.
Application Tools: Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 2-8 Hours
Cleanup: Water Cleanup
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in all States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Gemini Coatings
Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive Photos
*We offer no guarantee of similar results. Consider that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.
I used GULF Synthetic in Sept of 2015 on my front porch. Today is 5/1/17. We live in NY with harsh winters. The porch gets a little morning sun but is otherwise shaded. Application of this product is difficult but I did it myself. I followed directions completely and made sure I was totally ready to move quickly when I began the process. The porch still looks great with no pealing or wearing noted. I must note we shovel this porch when it snows. 🙂 I think It is the best product out there to cover that nasty deck situation you might have. The only thing I find to be a very small issue is the “grit” The surface is gritty however it beats splinters. I now plan to do my back deck 1350 sq feet, a huge undertaking. This product is costly but at least it does what it says. I have researched all these products and I think using the Gulf is the way to go.
Thanks for your review!
Does the deck synthetc coating show any wear after you shovel?. We get a lot of snow , therefore lots of shoveling and I am looking for a product that would withstand tht.
It should. Use a shovel with a rubber edge will help. If you dig into it with metal, it will be an issue.
no it held up well.
Do you mean that grit releases continuously? We walk into our house onto hardwood floors. I would be worried that the grit would scratch them. thanks.
The grit is in the product and does not come off.
OK. thanks.
Is it gritty in a good way, that you have firm traction when the surface is wet? We live in western NY. I also want to avoid the bubbling or peeling in the Summer. I am retired and can’t afford to do the job twice. I want to do it right the first time.
Yes it has traction to it so it is not slippery when wet.
i am the original owner and developer of DeckRevive. i am originally from Rochester, NY and can relate to the harsh winters. i have the first batch of DeckRevive on my deck in georgia whuch was applied in 2008. No peeling and still looks like the day i applied it
I have been using the product for 5 years now this will be my 6th year I have no complaints of peeling I love this product and it’s the only one I will use for my business in ct..
Is it in the sun?? I have sunny areas and they don’t do well with Deckover
what about Olympic Rescue It Max , resurfacer+Primer+Sealant
Garbage and they have a class action lawsuit against them as well: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/olympic-rescue-it-review-2014/
Can you tell me how to find the colors for the deck revive kit?
And how do you purchase the product?
You can buy it on our website or here: https://www.gulfsynthetics.com/
For colors, you add the color by adding a gallon of gloss acrylic latex paint to each kit in any color you want.
Is the stated coverage accurate?
Yes.
Can permabond be painted over a stain that isn’t peeling or do you have to remove a stain before applying
It should work as long as the prior coating is fully intact.
Can Gulf Deck Revive be applied over a SW solid deck stain?
It should be okay as long as the current stain is intact and not peeling.
I see that you have to mix a gallon of exterior paint with this product. Is there a particular exterior paint recommended?
Any exterior paint should work, just make sure it is acrylic (not oil-based) latex and is a high gloss. Sherwin Williams should have options.
How would this product hold up to two 70 lb dogs running around/nail scratches? Any feedback appreciated.
Yes, it should.
I have a large deck and am replacing the boards you walk on. The rest is still okay but painted. Can I use the deck restore on both the new pressure treated and the painted older surfaces? Also, should I paint the crossbeams under the wood I’m replacing?
New wood needs to weather for 3+ months. The only reason to paint the crossbeams would be for aesthetic purposes.
Scott, do you have insight into the painted older surfaces part of Norma’s question? That’s my situation too. We bought a house with a painted deck and need to replace several boards that have rotten spots and repaint many chips/scratches on the others. We’re hoping maybe we could use this product over the new boards as well as the existing painted ones (after scraping all loose and peeling paint). Any advice?
It should work okay as long as all failing areas that are peeling are removed.
Thanks – I appreciate your response, and this site!
I am preparing to restore a lumber (pressure treated) deck using one of the deck restore products. I am looking to choose between the Cabot deck correct and Pittsburgh revitalize for heavy to moderate needs. Prices are similar for 5 gallon containers and my deck looks similar to pictures shown in their respective brochures. Cleaning and large crack filling look to be similar for both, and they both require 2 coats to complete the restoration. I have approximately 1000 sq ft of deck to restore. I have ruled out other recovery products for various reasons. after reading your reviews, it looks like you recommend the Gulf Synthetic Deck Revive product, which I will look into.
I would be interested in a recommendation amongst the 3 products mentioned above. I know nothing lasts forever, but if I can get another 5 – 10 years out of this deck, I would be happy. It appears that once you use one of these types of restorative products, nothing more can be done to the deck besides sanding all off. Looks like they cannot be patched or recoated with another coat of same product.
Thoughts or comments?
We would not use any other brand but the Gulf. Cabot and Pittsburgh brands have the same issues as Behr Deckover and Rust-Oleum’s Deck Revive/Rock Solid.
Why is Perma Bond not sold with deck revive “Full kit”?
Can I purchase a similar product (Perma Bond) in a store?
You would have to ask the manufacturer.
Should I fill in large cracks in deck boards along with large knots with wood filler before hand?
No need. Cracks are normal in wood decking.
I’m replacing the floor in a boat. I’m using new 3/4″ marine plywood. Will this product (Gemini Deck Revive) do what I’m hoping for on new material? It is a fishing boat so color, grittiness and protection (breathability) are very important. There won’t be carpet or vinyl going over it. Plus, I’m old and don’t want to do this again. My assumption is to apply the entire kit. Thank you
Yes, it will work for this.
Hello,
Do you have any knowledge / experience with ArmorRenew Deck & Concrete Patio Re-surfacer from ArmorProxy? Or PRO RENEW WOOD AND CONCRETE RESURFACERfrom Epoxy Central?
Thanks
Sorry but never used it or seen it.
Thank God I found your site and product reviews. You prevented me from going with Rustoleum RockSolid and the similar Behr product for my back deck re-furb project. My deck is 12×24 so I’m thinking I’d need 2 kits for a proper 2 coat application. I’ve pressure washed the surface and sanded the hand rails. Spraying mildew/mold cleaner on it today. I’m not sure of the original paint, but I’ve been in the house for 5 years and now I need to do something. Based on the pictures, can I just apply the Perma Bond, then paint directly over existing paint with the Deck Revive?
As long as your previous paint is not peeling, you can cover it.
I’m thinking of using this on our wooden Adirondack chairs. Would the grit be uncomfortable to sit on and rest your arms on? We bought these inexpensive hand made Adirondacks and they guy who made them did not seal them properly with polyurethane, so there are spots where there is none. They look terrible now and I was thinking this product might improve the look and also help them last longer. Would I need to remove all the old poly first?
Yes, you will have to remove the poly. Not sure if the grit will be too uncomfortable but it should not be that bad.
Can I use a spray gun with this product?
No, too thick.
Thanks…I guess it’s the old fashion way!
I have a 25year old deck, just power washed and cleaned with deck wash solution. It has some minor surface cracks, can I use a solid stain or product like the Gulf Deck Revive is only option?
Cracks in a deck are normal and are not an issue. You can use any stain type that you want.
Im in south Florida and im putting in a bid on a 2300sf dock to clean prep and seal and it is badly weathered and may need a couple areas filled with wood filler or putty or something but my question is will the Restore-A-Deck Semi-Transparentbe ok to use or should i look at something solid color maybe Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive
Wood filler and semi-transparent stains will not blend. Solid stains will. Use the RAD Solid Stain.
Would you recommend RAD solid over Deck Revive ?
Both would work well, just depends on the look you want. The gulf will have a more “textured” look to it.
I have a deck that was painted with behr restore about 10 years ago. No peeling, but now I can see the deck beneath starting to bleed through. I power washed it, and I want to repaint just to give me one more year before tearing it off. Can I use the behr replacement product over it?
Not sure, you would have to ask Behr as we stopped using all their products due to very poor performance.
I would like to use Deck Revive on my deck floor. I hear that the surface is coarse. I have benches and prefer not to have rough seats. Is there another product that I can use on my benches that will complement the DeckRevive on the floor? I prefer that it is not a stain since I would like to have a paint color to match the DeckRevive floor. Thanks in Advance
You can use a solid color stain that matches the deck revive paint.
Any recommended products?
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/what-are-the-best-solid-color-deck-stains/
Will this product work on a composite deck?
It should.
I have been doing trex decking for three years now i also sent my samples with untreated samples to gemini lab and they verified my research that it will work i also put a coating for concrete on it after that gives it a wet look makes concrete revive look wet on a sunny day does not fail the product after 4 years proven to work
10×16 pressure treated wood deck, 50 years old, central NY, 1-2 coats of old deck paint mostly intact under eaves, mostly peeled off in sun, some splintering there too. I’ve washed it with a stiff scrub brush and deck cleaner w/mildew remover (strong bleach smell). No pressure washer on hand, so used the garden hose. Then I found this site! Will Gulf Synthetic work on this varying surface, and do I still need to pressure wash – wouldn’t that further tear up the aging wood? If the mildewcide wash is a problem, how long before it’s not? Many thanks.
Yes, you will have to pressure wash and it will not tear up the wood. The Gulf will work great.
I am considering deck revive for refinishing my deck. I have sanded most of the deck with a belt sander to remove the old coating I believe it was paint over the top of a solid stain. Can you tell me if deck revive would work for my deck based on the attached photos and can you also advise if I need to do any more prep work before applying deck revive? Also if there is a better option than deck revive please let me know so I can consider that too. Thanks!
Yes, it would work very well. Give it a good pressure wash as this will open up the pores.
how do i tell how old deck revive is, as there are no batch numbers or date on materials
Not sure, you would have to ask them.
Can I use DeckRevive over old textured deck paint? There are areas on our deck where the old paint will not come up.
It should work.
Does this product work for a concrete dock?
Yes.
To all deck revive users this our 7th year over 150 decks nobody is suing us or Gemini because it’s the only deck product when applied correctly and maintained correctly last for many many years I want to share something we have been putting a concrete sealer over our deck revive the next day it gives It a wet look does not hurt the product I feel it helps it even more stays cleaner to we also proved it on trex decking with the sealer and concrete with the sealer it works this is our trademark product all we will use
What brand or type of concrete sealer do you use over the deck revive?
does this Deck Revive come with any kind of warrantee? It’s a lot of money for this kind of product, however I haven’t seen a negative review yet…
Not sure. Ask them.
I give a 3 year warranty on all my decks
I used an Olympic semi transparent stain on my new deck three years ago. After just two years it started to look awful. The deck it attached to an above ground pool, hence subjected to the chlorine. Any recommendations? Thanks
Pressure wash for prep and then use the Gulf Deck Revive.
Thank you. Where may I obtain that product? Color choices?
Post some pictures here in comment area for prep help.
Would DeckRevive be a good product for an old power washed composite deck?
Not sure, best to ask them.
Hello, is this deck worth restoring? It splinters in spots and has areas of deeper crevices and is rough. The spindles are ok but the top rail needs done as well. Opinions on what you think may be best? I don’t know that we’ve ever sanded it but with ots roughness not sure it’d matter in most areas. Appreciate your insight 🙂
Yes, it is worth it. Strip and then brighen for prep. You do not need a coating like the Gulf on it but you can if that is the look you want. We would look at a penetrating semi-solid like TWP or Armstrong Clark.
Thank you so much for your reply. So how do I fill in those thinner crevices? (probably from sun drying it out with no protection) which will likely splinter out in someone’s foot? We have lots of barefoot kids here and for the past 5 years of doing nothing because I thought I was going to have to replace it $$$, I’d tell everyone WEAR YOUR SHOES and don’t hold the side too hard as you walk down the stairs!!
Fillers will not work on decks. Just leave as is and you can lightly hand sand or pol sand to remove splinters before staining.
Thanks…can’t wait to see how this goes…nervous though 🙂
Does your product revive an old, power washed composite deck?
I’m torn between using this and Defy. I have almost all of the SW solid sanded of the deck and revisiting the wood cracks has me leaning toward Deck Revive.
With the Deck Revive product…
1) Do I still need to do finish sanding with a 80 grit (I used 60 to start)?
2) Should I still the RAD cleaner and brightener after sanding?
3) If 2 is “yes”, should I do so immediately even if it may be a week or so before I can stain it?
4) Do I still need to wait 1-2 months before staining new KDAT wood?
5) How much product would you recommend for 850 sq. ft.?
6) Is $240 per kit and $90 for the perma bond normal pricing or are the prices for this crazy high (like lumber) right now?
Thanks!
-60 is fine.
-No need, just pressure wash.
-Whenever
-Yes
-4-5 of their Deck Revive full kits and 2-3 Permabonds
-Normal pricing.
I’m trying to better understand the texture that this product creates. Can anyone comment on how rough it is? Is it comfortable to walk on with bare feet? I have young kids and I want to make sure they aren’t going to be bothered by it. Thank you.
It has a decent amount of grip or texture, but walking on it should not be an issue.
Thanks for the review! Your review as well as others in the comments convinced me to use Deck Revive.
My deck has some minor wear and cracks that will require Perma Fill. However, it looks like recently, Perma Fill has been discontinued and the site suggested using Quikrete Quick Setting Filler.
https://www.gulfsynthetics.com/perma-fill-perma-caulk.html
I am not sure about using cement on wood. Do you have any thoughts on this or any alternatives? I really want to use Deck Revive, but this may be a game-changer.
Thanks.
No issues with using what they suggest.
If you power wash a wooden deck, you must allow 7 to 10 days for the cells in the wood to dry out. Forcing water onto wood makes it swell. If you don’t allow sufficient drying time, the paint will surely fail in a short period of time.
Sorry but that is not true. 48 hours is sufficient for this product.
Is this good for new decks, also?
Yes.
5 years ago I researched how to revive an old cracked splintering deck. I found Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive and was impressed by reviews and testing. My husband and I purchased it and a friend helped us prep and apply according to directions. It is now five years later and it’s finally starting to lift and peel in many areas. I live in Pennsylvania and my deck is exposed to heavy snow, hot sun, dampness, and occasional mold in shaded areas. This product exceeded our expectations and we would use it again.
Chemically, what is the difference between DeckRevive and Rustoleum Deck Restore? Wasn’t DeckRestore also an acrylic latex polymer emulsion? Like many here, my deck was ruined by Rustoleum and I am replacing it. If you had to choose, is it better to use a paint like this or a stain like TWP 100?
We do not know the chemical difference between the two.
Thanks for answering questions. I read in one of your comments that y IU cannot use the Gemini Deck Revive over an old coating, that it needs to be sanded off. And I read the same on the green building supply website.
But on Gemini Gulf Synthetics website instructions they say that you can go over a previously painted surface, but that the old coating just needs to be sanded and dulled some for the primer to adhere. Do you know which is it?
Like maybe it can go over previously solid stain/ painted surfaces if dulled with a light sanding, but sealed surfaces like a sealer or semi trans oil need to be sanded completely off? Thanks
You can use the Gulf over old coatings such as solid stains and deck stains but it cannot go over the old coatings that are failing deck resurface coatings such as Rust-oleum Deck Restore or Behr DeckOver.
What if you don’t really know what the coating is? And it could be a standard solid stain or an elastomeric coating?
And the instructions for Deck Revive are interesting in that they specify not using any mold cleaner. Just pressure wash alone. What if there is obvious mold/ mildew?
I read in one of their people in. FAQ section that they don’t want a degreaser to be used, I take it because it might affect adhesion. So if that’s the case, could use a cleaner if it doesn’t have a degreaser in it? Not sure if Yo I have that answer. But any answers on. What to do with mold when using this product?
No chemical during prep so there is not any reactions with the Deck Revive Coatings. Best to just pressure wash. That will remove mildew and mold.
Send pictures, we can tell what the stain type is.
Do you have to apply a primer to the deck to apply the product? Which primer is best to use?
You must use the Permabond Primer that Gulf sells first.
If I use Deck Revive on the deck boards and steps and use a solid stain on the railings, posts and spindles; will I end up having to re-stain the railings, posts and spindles much sooner than the any maintenance required on the surfaces coated with Deck Revive?
What is the best solid stain you would recommend for North Carolina
See here fo solid stain: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/what-are-the-best-solid-color-deck-stains/
Can this product be used on boards that have knots and sap oozing out.
Sure.
The sap can make the product lose adhesion
Hi, do you have any knowledge on/experience with “Restore-A-Deck”? I’ve read some good reviews but I’m hesitant to attempt.
Thanks!
Restore-A-Deck stains are not a “deck resurface” coating like the Gulf synthetics and work great: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-wood-stain-review/
You may be confusing that with the Rust-Oleum Deck Restore which is not the same brand and is a deck resurface coating. It is a horrible product: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/class-action-lawsuit-against-rust-oleum-deck-restore/
Hi,
I was not referring to the Rust-Oleum… I’m aware of how back that is but I did think the solid stain from RAD aided in restoring the wood on an old deck. Or is it just a solid stain that covers up the flaws?
Thanks!!!
The RAD Solid stain is a great stain if you are looking for a solid stain look. We have been using it for a few years now and no complaints.
I have been reading the reviews concerning all the issues with the Behr Deckover paint vs the Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive and am confused. We live in NJ and have a large deck which was built years ago and gets sun all day so it becomes very hot to walk on. We painted it a few year ago with the Deckover and are having peeling issues on the steps and several other ares on the deck. We were going to repaint it with the Behr product but after reading all the comments, I see we have another choice.
Is it OK to hand sand the steps where the Deckover paint is peeling, power wash the entire deck and then apply the Golf Deck Revive to cover the deck with a new color? We have been told by several contractors / painters that we could not sand down the deck so how do we repaint it? Thank you for any feedback you can give me.
You cannot apply a different product like the Deck Revive over the peeling Behr Deckover. The only way to fix this is to power sand it all off or replace the wood.
Thank you. Looks like I’m stuck with what I have.
Do you hv any other cost effective ways to repaint a deck? I used deck over on my brand new deck thinking it will extend the life of it and protect it. My deck looks horrible 3 years later as it progressively gotten worst each year. Now I just want to power wash and paint it but I don’t know with what. Getting new wood is not an option as I’m still paying for the cost of the deck
You cannot apply anything over the Behr DeckOver You would 100% have to remove it by sanding or scraping or replace the wood.
Saddened but grateful for your honesty. Perhaps after sanding I can try something else🥹
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-to-remove-rust-oleum-deck-restore/
I bought flat and then saw it says to use glossy. What will happen if I use flat. I bought 3 flat at
$50/each. Yikes
It has to be gloss. It will not mix or set up correctly with a flat.
I just stained my deck a month ago with Behr overdeck advanced color product, I used two coats and it took me forever because it was so thick and hard to apply. I had to use 7 gallons because it was thick and it took me over one week to finally finish. I noticed the other day it’s already starting to chip off, I listened to the employee at Home Depot who claimed that was the best deck stain on the market, I am so sorry I listened to him. The product is difficult to apply and it looks like paint instead of stain, which I wanted. I was wondering if I could use the product,Olympic multi surface smart-guard sealer in clear, I was told you can spray it on your deck as a top coat? But I don’t want to destroy all the work I just did, I was wondering if anyone ever applied a clear sealer as a topcoat to lock in their color ?
You can never apply a sealer over a deck stain. It will peel.
Hello,
I recently made a mess out of my hideous blue deck (as if it wasn’t bad enough). It is latex paint on top of who knows what kind of other blue paint (three layers or so). I power washed it, which caused some paint to come up. Then I applied Multi-strip and was able to barely peel up the paint. It is now all flaky, like a melted latex balloon. The deck is still wet from the original power washing. I am at a loss. What do I do!? Some of the paint peeled right up and I piled it together as shown in the pic. The rest is latex-balloons consistency.
You will need to power sand this to fix this: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-to-sand-your-wood-deck/
Dose this work to resurface concrete?
They have a concrete version on their website. https://www.gulfsynthetics.com/
Do you ship to Canada?
We do not sell products from this website.
For maintenance and reapplication (after 3-5 years), what is involved in the prep for reapplication? Can this be applied straight onto the existing layer of DeckRevive?
Prep and reapply the Permabond and Deck Revive is all that is needed
Where can i buy it? Or see sample?
Check with their website.
Where can i see sample?
Ok people here is a couple of pointers rent a drum sander don’t tell them u are doing a deck with it they won’t give it to you I own mine sand both directions to strip it use a grinder or orbitol sander around the edges do not use any water blow it off clean now the screws and nails need to be sealed with a Rust preventor then u can apply the permabond tint it it’s easier to follow push it into those cracks and be sure there is open space between the boards remove all debris and dirt so water can pass thru using the revive do not work out if the pail only put amount in a roller tray you can spread in good time keep it out of the sun best to do it before it’s to warm don’t skimp on the permabond .. also cAn be used on the rail cap..try to moisture test prior 15 Percent max is what I call safe..good luck great product 6 years going strong no complaints been out a couple times over the six years for tiny touch ups mostly homeowner error…
We just bought a house and the deck has “Behr deck plus semi transparent waterproof wood stain” on it and it wearing off. Can we just pressure wash that or does it need to be sanded as well?
Pressure wash for prep.
We have a 6 year old pressure treated wooden deck that has never been stained. It has splinters and cracks in it now. The wood is now grey and looks quite aged. Our two toddlers play on the deck a LOT and are getting splinters in their hands a feet.
1) Will this product stand up to rough use and heavy traffic (moving furniture, rolling a bbq around, kids throwing toys, etc.)?
2) How often does this product need to be redone / maintained?
4) How much extra life can we expect to get out of our deck with this product?
3) It looks like quite a process to apply this correctly, if we have no previous experience with this, are we likely to have successful results?
3) What does this consist of? Is it toxic?
4) How long after application will we be able to use fully use our deck again?
Thank you. I look forward to your response.
1. Yes.
2. Every 3-5 years.
3. If you take your time and follow directions, yes.
4. Not toxic.
5. 24 hours.
Can I apply the Gulf product on a deck that was painted 4 years ago with a solid stain? There is some chipping and areas where the solid stain has worn thru to the wood. I planned to clean the deck thoroughly then sand as needed.
Or does all the prior stain need to come off down to the wood?
Thanks
Yes as long as you pressure wash or sand off the loose paint. You can cover the rest.
I used Behr Deckover and as everyone knows, it is a mess. I have it on the boards, rails, and posts. I was reading that I need every bit of this stuff off before using Gulf Synthetics. But, how do I get it off the posts? I guess I also do not understand how to just use regular paint on the posts and rails once I get the Behr off. Why can you not use Gulf Synthetics for those too? What paint is recommend?
Also, my wood is pressure treated, does this make a difference? Can I still use this? Is it ok to sand pressure-treated lumber?
Yes, it all needs to come off. You can use a solid deck stain that is tinted the same color as the Deck Revive for the railings. You can use the Gulf if you want for the railings but it is overkill. The wood type does not matter.
Thanks for your quick reply. Have you ever heard of Amordeck, Renew It deck coatings or King Armor. Just been scouring the web for something. I think it looks like my best option is Gulf.
We have not used them but have heard and seen them fail from other consumers.
Thanks so much!
Hi, another question. What about flipping the boards and starting over that way? Could we just use a regular stain, if so, what do you recommend for pressure-treated lumber?
You would have to use a solid stain as when you flip, you will have deep stains from the joists that typically do not come out.
What is the best product to get the Behr Deck paint off? Last year I tried the Behr products and it hardly took anything off. Does it need to be sanded off? What solid deck stain do you recommend?
Sanding is the only way. See here for solid stains: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/what-are-the-best-solid-color-deck-stains/
Me again, ok it’s taking forever but am sanding each board. Here is my question, the Behr paint is in the screw holes and on the side of the boards. I have tried to get the paint out/off with scrapers but not completely, will your cleaner get this paint off? Remind me again, do I need to sand the posts or just use the solid stain to go over the Behr? Have you seen pressure treated lumber stained with your semi transparent stain or do you recommend a solid stain? Thanks so much for your advice.
Cleaners or strippers will not get paint off. You can cover an old solid stain with a new solid stain as long as you remove or sand off the peeling stain first.
It’s deck time in the Northeast I am a professional installer of deck revive I have been using this product for six years this will be seven it is the best deck product I have ever used in my 33 years of painting I am also the founder of the product working in Trex decking backed up by the lab at gemini industries. I have helped people from across the United States by phone on the do and don’t of resurfacing their decks we are the only professional installers in ct mass and Rhode island do not waste your money on rustolium deck over products or any deck over products from home Depot and Lowe’s aslo Sherwin Williams super deck the results after one year will be bad for you and your deck I have proven this product to go beyond ,six years now. Out if 143 decks in six years I have only touched up maybe eleven and it was very minor and mostly results of homeowners chopping ice . Edges of steps will chip off or wear off due to the aggressive wear and tear but the floors of the decks and caps on the rails hold true . My name is Mark Currier from canterbury ct if u have questions or need help Thank you
hey mark, i live in plainfield and trying to help my sister redo her deck. I came across this product ‘deck revive’. I would be interested in your help on ‘do’s and don’ts’. how would i get in touch with you?
What what I have to do to prep my deck that already has four times rust oleum deck restore on it if I wanted to use the deck revive product
You will have to fully sand off the Rust-oleum product for you to be able to use any other product on the deck.
Rent a drum sander to strip it off
What would I have to do to prep my deck that has the crappy 4x deck restore On it that has peeled in several areas of I wanted to use this product
I’m trying to cover the Olympic product I put on 5 years ago around my pool. As mentioned in your article, very difficult to completely remove old surfAce before new application. What do you suggest? Will the primer be enough to cover the old?
Which Olympic product did you use? If ti was the Rescue-It, you will have to power sand it all off first.
It was rescue-it. Sanding is not an option. Just need something to cover that will adhere
You have no choice but to sand it all off or replace the wood. Nothing will work over it and adhere.
I’m contemplating using this or the RAD solid stain for my old deck that was previously solid stained by the old owner. Which one would you recommend? What are the advantages/disadvantages that I should know about either? It seems like both are great products.
Either would work very well. Up to you as to what type of appearance you want.
We plan to recover a leaking Duradeck with new plywood and need the best product to cover our newly surfaced Alberta, Canada, deck. We plan to use 3/4 tongue/groove untreated plywood over the Duradeck which we plan to reinforce from underneath. Or should we use treated plywood, but we want to finish it this summer. What is the best product to use which will be barefoot friendly, and endure harsh winters and midday full sun? Desperate for answers!!
Using plywood on a deck or horizontal surface is not a good idea for outside surfaces. It will have issues with drainage, puddling of water, sagging down the road, etc. If you need to redo then use deck boards.
Is there a cheaper product that is comparable to Deck Revive?
Nope, you get what you pay for. The cheap brands will fail and create a huge mess that will cost more in the long run.
I have an old deck and am hoping that a product like Deck Revive would be good for it. Some of the boards had signs of rot and were replaced last year. I do not see any more rot but am wondering if it is safe to still use this product. In the event there is rot will this product make it worse?
This will not make it worse as it is breathable but it cannot “fix” any areas that are already rotted.
I applied two coats of UGL NuDeck Wood and Concrete Restorative Coating about five years ago and reapplied it a couple of years ago since it didn’t look good and it has peeled and cracked and is basically a mess. My deck looks like the pictures I’ve seen of the Rust-Oleum product, but I can find no mention of law suits about it. I can find ads touting how great it is.
I’ve now resorted to applying the strongest paint remover I could find and have been scraping for days and I keep getting layers of paint but can’t seem to get down to bare wood except in places. I started by power washing and that got a lot off but there is a lot left.
I spoke to a rental store manager and he suggested that I let the wood thoroughly dry and use an edger to sand each board individually and to then apply a new finish. I don’t know what someone here thinks of that idea or if you have another one.
I’m rather gun shy of these deck refinisher products as the owner of the paint store where I bought the NuDeck recommends I stay away from them. Is this Gulf Synthetics Deck refinisher really a product that will stand up or will I just have to go through this again in a couple of years? I followed the NuDeck instruction meticulously and it was all just a waste of time and money. I don’t want to have to do this over again.
Yes, this product works very well. We have been using it for years. Nothng lasts forever though so there is no such thing as not having to touch up as needed at some point in the future. You will have to remove the current coating by sanding.
We have a large porch that is about 90% covered by roof. However driving rain and snow at times covers most of the surface. The porch pitch is insufficient and water does not readily run of.
Unlike a deck the porch is covered with pine tongue and groove planking that is mostly in good condition, a few boards will need to be replaced.
The floor has no real openings to drain water between the boards but just small gaps typically of a tongue and groove flooring and also not enough pitch to shed water. So at times there is some standing water and it does seep into the tongue and groove gaps. Will this type of flooring work with the GULF Synthetic or is it strictly designed for decking with wider gaps?
You would have to ask them directly but I would think it will work.
My deck was most likely done with Olympic Rescue It before we bought the house, based on looking at photos and research. It lasted about two years, and now we are in year 4 and really need to redo it. When trying to look up what products to use with since it’s in poor condition, came across DeckRevive. My question – do we have to completely remove the Rescue It paint or can we just pressure wash and then start with the PermaBond and then the Revive? See photos. Sorry if has already been asked, I know you have to completely remove the DeckOver before doing DeckRevive, but this doesn’t have any texture/grit to it, just paint. Thank you in advance!
You should remove most or all of it first.
Upon further review, I don’t think they used Rescue It, just exterior paint. We had no issues with bubbling up and it doesn’t look like it does in videos. So will move forward with pressure washing loose paint but not stripping/sanding, unless that is recommended. Thanks!
Is SuperDeck®
Exterior Deck & Dock Coating a good deck restore product?
No.
Question. I am going to apply Gulf Synthetics to my deck. Deck is 26’x16′ of 2″x6″x16′ green treat boards. Seven boards have been replaced. Deck has been power washed (no finish material on boards). After reading the horror stories about the other products I will be using Gulf Synthetics DeckRevive. The guys at gulf synthetics said I should wait about 2 months before applying material to allow the new boards to dry. I live in Illinois, and will be pushing late September when application is to happen. The weather has been very strange. My question: Is it better to cover the deck with a tarp to protect from rain and keep dry, or just leave the tarp off and let deck get wet and weather? Thank you for any assistance you may be able to provide. I am a retired professional HVACR mechanic, but at best a poor wood butcher and protective coating applicator.
BB
Do not cover. It needs to naturally weather.
Thank you very much for your quick reply. Hence the term “weathered”, as I sat thinking one evening. Thanks again I’ll let you know how it turns out in a few months.
I am thinking about using this on a pool deck. Being gritty is it tough on bare feet? Additionally does it absorb heat like a composite deck and get extremely hot? Thank you.
No, it is not tough on bare feet. Any stain can absorb heat. The darker it is, the hotter it can be. Nothing you can about it.
I have been reading reviews of Deck Over by Behr, Deck Resurfacer by Rustoleum and a couple others when I came across this product. I read through most of the reviews, and was impressed. I do have a few questions however:
1. How many gallons of the Revive and Permabond (needed first like a primer?) for 1,000 square feet?
2. Where can I buy this product? I have not seen it at the box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s. Maybe at ACE HW?
3. Will this product hold up in South Florida?
4. My deck was built in 2005 and has been stained over the years – most recent was with Extreme Defy – Cedar color
5. There are about 20 planks that are new but about 2 months old so should be fine
6. I am having the deck pressure cleaned first – do I need to wait 2 days before painting?
7. What is the cost of the kit/paint….?
8. Is there a warranty for Deck Revive?
9. I was planning on a custom color (beige/yellow – same as house and fence
10. Deck is all PT wood – in fairly good shape – not heavily worn as many pieces have been replaced over the years
11. Some reviews recommend painting with a brush and others with a roller – which is better and how long before dry?
12. Is one coat sufficient? All the products I was looking at stated two coats.
The answer to the above questions is appreciated as I am thinking seriously about purchasing Revive for my deck
AG
1. 3 Permabonds and 5 Deck Revive Kits.
2. Only from them directly on their website.
3. Yes.
6. Yes
7. Check with their website.
8. Check with them.
11. You apply with a roller.
12. Two coats.
Some of your above were not questions so we responded to only the numbers with questions.
I plan to use the Deckrevive just on my horizontal surfaces, and paint the verticals, ordering 2 full kits and 2 quarter kits for my 480 sq. ft of deck. I needed to order 2 gallons of Permabond to have enough, but will have plenty extra. Can I use the Permabond on my vertical surfaces as well, under the paint?
Probably no. You should use a solid color deck stain, not paint for the railings and they do not require a primer.
Can this product be used on cedar decking
Yes.
I bought a house last fall with a badly weathered, painted deck. While it is structurally sound, there are areas where the paint has almost fully peeled off, spots where the boards are scarred or damaged, as well as low traffic, shaded areas where the paint is still almost fully intact. I was just going to stain, but when reading reviews for DeckOver, found the DeckRevive which looks like a much better option. Is it necessary to remove every bit of the old paint before I start. I’ve been pressure washing, some comes off easily, other areas paint is holding fast. Should I also sand the deck before apply the DeckRevive?
You do not have to remove all the paint. Just pressure wash off the loose and peeling paint. You can cover the intact non-peeling paint. No need to sand unless you need to remove some of the peeling paint.
Thanks for the quick reply. Do you recommend this product for the deck railing and spindles as well, or could (should) they be covered with a regular exterior paint or stain?
Just use a matching solid color deck stain for the rails.
Hi – We recently purchased a home with a 1030 square foot deck that had been painted with the Behr Deckover product. Unfortunately, did not discover the lawsuit, product performance issues, etc. with Behr until today. (Problem is spotty chipping, stripping etc. so deck is a mess.) Meanwhile, have been trying all solutions to get rid of the Deckover , none of them successful. I.e. sanding, pressure washing, Citris stripper and most recently the toxic stuff to try and get rid of Deckover so I can start over. I’m hoping your product may offer a solution. Can you comment on 1) if i can apply the Gulf product OVER the remaining Deckover covered boards without complete stripping 2) What prep should I use if I CAN apply the Gulf product and 3) how much product to cover the 1030 sq. feet of deck. Thanks for your assistance.
1. No, nothing can go over the Deckover.
2. You have to fully remove the Deckover first.
3. About 5 of the Deck Revive Full Kits.
I am considering deck revive. How old is this product? Does anyone have had it for 5 years and how did it stand up?
10 years or more. The decks we have done have little to no issues after 3-5 years.
How is it possible for this coating to allow the wood to breathe as they claim if it is a solid coating? Also, is painting the underside of the boards completely necessary? My deck is above a patio and the bottom is covered by a drainage basin, and I want to avoid removing it to paint.
Small tiny pinholes in the coating. Best to ask Gemini for more details as we do not make it.
I have a ten-year-old Duradeck (vinyl, I think) glued down onto treated plywood with their glue (seems to be contact cement). The Duradeck is seriously deteriorated and is lifting from the plywood (the glue, and the vinyl, appear to be failing).
Does that contact cement need to be removed before applying Gulf Synthetic?
Not sure if this product will work on vinyl decking. I doubt it will and it cannot fix the deterioration issue.
I wasn’t planning on putting it overtop if the vinyl but rather overtop of the remaining contact cement. Will Gulf Synthetic adhere to contact cement?
I doubt it.
I proved it will work on the decking backed up by lab techs at Gemini in 2019
Where can I purchase this?
Check with their website.
current deck has behr deckover which is failing somewhat after 5 years on my treated wooden deck. what type/brand of deck paint can be used to cover it without needing to sand entire deck. my plan is to power wash to clean and remove any loose paint.
You cannot apply anything over the Behr Deckover. You will have to remove by sanding.
Gulf synthetic as compared to rustoleum 4X or is it the same product
It is not the same product. Different brand and manufacturer. This product works while the Rust-oleum has lawsuits for failures.
Do you need to use permabond on a new deck or can you just apply the Deck Revive?
You must use the Permabond first.
We used this product on a very weathered full sun back deck some years ago. It lasted beautifully for a long time and now we would like to reapply. Our painting contractor advised that this product was so thick that it would not work well since it had been treated previously. Do you have a solution. The product is really incredible.
It can be reapplied. Pressure wash for prep. Let dry. Reapply the Permabond and then the Deck Revive.
Can Deck Revive be used on a composite deck?
No it cannot.
Where can i buy deck revive
Check their website.
Does this product come in a version that does not have the grit?
No it does not.
This product was used on my deck 5 years ago. It has held up beautifully. It is now time to spruce up and apply again. What is the procedure?
Same as before. Pressure wash for the prep. Let dry. Apply the Permabond. Twp coats of the Deck Revive.
i am the developer of the product and have a solution for sprucing it up. mitch 678 234 7584. owner of gulf synthetics
How can we make this product less rough? I don’t want it to feel like I’m walking on sandpaper. Thank you!
One year old Flood (pro series) solid color shows mold/mildew after one year. Yuck. Does Gulf Synthetic protect old deck wood rom mold/mildew? I don’t read any where here (and other sites) if Gulf Synthetic protect deck wood against mold? Flood acrylic stain still cover wood good but removing mold with bleach and water major pain. Any suggestions on what I can do keep “green” stuff away (long term).
A deck stain or coating cannot prevent mildew/algae from forming on top of a stain. Does not work that way. A coating can only prevent or stop mildew from growing “in” the stain.
What do you use to tint or add color to the “Deck Revive” ?
You had gloss paint in any color you want.
I’m trying to determine what final color/tint I’ll get.
Gulf Synthetics website says to mix one gallon of exterior gloss acrylic latex paint to the one gallon of the liquid component of their Deck Revive. So whatever color paint I add, would be diluted 2 to 1, so to get a specific color/tint, I’d add paint that is about twice as dark as the final color I want? Could I test this by adding a small amount of the tinted paint to an equal amount of white paint and test paint small sections?
It is actually not diluted but the color is dispersed to be the same. Your final color will be the same as the gallon paint in our experience.
Thank you gulf synthetics and Gemini industries 5 years now using deck revive on customers decks we now have done 104 decks in the last 5 years out of all them we had 4 minor repairs which took about ten minutes and it wasnt a product failure either only product we will use I guarantee my deck for 3 years other solid stain will not hold up to this product we also proved that it will work on wire ourmt trex decking.this has been our best year and we are growing more each year with more believers.thanx again gemini…
Can it be used in cement porches?
Use their Concrete Revive instead.
How will this product act if put over a coat of properly prepared DeckOver that has been on the deck for 2 years?
It will not fix the peeling issues of the DeckOver. It will need to be removed first if it is failing.
Can you give detailed info/instructions on how to apply Deck Revive like what type of brush is best to use? or can a roller or pad be used? or can it be sprayed on? How often does DR need to be stirred/mixed? What quantity is best used at a time?
They have detailed instructions on their website. Here are some tips for when we use it.
-You cannot spray this. Too thick. Use a heavy nap roller and a “thick” bristle paint brush.
-Stir every 20-30 minutes.
-Much easier to do this project with another person. Keeps the product fluid and you will coat it twice as fast.
-Only mix 1 of the kits at a time.
Thanks
Would like to inform the growing number of homeowners who are realizing that deck revive from Gemini industry is the leading deck surfacing product on the market that I have and Gemini lab has confirmed my testing with their own that we can now resurface your old worn out trex decking Gemini lab has given my testing along with theirs the ok so all you owners of worn out trex decking you have your solution I knew it would work I am ct and Rhode islands only deck revive professional call me if you need service or I can also answer questions you may have a great day and spread the word it is not the same failing stain product that others are selling thank you
will this work as well on a new deck that hasn’t been stained before?? thanks!
Yes.
I am very interested in your trex experience with deck revive. Thank you for offering your assistance.
Do you ever use punctuations such as periods or commas? Just askin’….
It’s not an English class sorry
Love the texture and the grit in this product and it is what I expected. Keeps the dogs from slipping and it saved our 20-year-old pine deck from being demoed.
I came across this product when considering refinishing a 10 year old PT deck. The deck had an original stain on it, which I was able to clean off pretty easily with a pressure washer. I purchased 2 full kits and 1 Permabond, for a 390sq ft deck.
I used a Sherwin Williams exterior gloss acrylic for color.. the color seemed to mix okay.
I had this applied by professional paint contractors locally, and after they did one tier of the deck I regretted the decision. This is going to add a great deal of texture and grit to your deck, be aware. I didn’t like it so much that I stopped half way through.
I was left with one untouched kit which I am going to return, however the company is hitting me with a 30% restocking fee even though the package is literally untouched. For the premium they charge over the cost of off the shelf resurfacing solutions, its just not worth it. If you are planning on applying this yourself, you are going to be in for a tough time — my contractors were misterable working with it, having to continuously mix it every 10 or 15 minutes to keep it from turning to sludge.
Great mistake on my part.
Buyer be very, very aware.
Hi Mark,
A few comments on your review.
1. The Deck Revive is a “Deck Resurface” type product. It is supposed to have a “thick” and “textured” appearance like in the pictures above. While you may not like the look or did not realize it, it is what these products are intended to do.
2, The reason this product costs more is that it works as intended, unlike the other off the shelf “resurfacing type” products. Just read all the horrible reviews and class action lawsuits on the other brands. Those products fail and will leave you with a deck that is in worse shape than when you started: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/behr-deckover-olympic-rescue-it-rust-oleum-deck-restore-do-they-work/
3. We have never had application issues with it. Once you know how to apply, it is similar to painting with a thicker type paint.
Anyways sorry you did not like the way it looks but you should not blame the product for doing what it is intended to do.
Can you give more detailed information/instruction on how to apply Deck Revive? For example what type of brush is best? Can a paint roller be used? Can it be sprayed on? How often does Deck Revive need to be stirred/mixed? What quantity can be best used at a time?
Mike – did you do any research on the product or read the descriptions about it? Do you expect them to give you a full refund when they have a restocking policy? Too bad you decided to give the product a poor review when in fact you should give yourself a poor review for not reading and comprehending before purchasing the product. Sad, very sad…….
I am dealing with a Behr Deckover disaster. The pain peeled very quickly and what is left, cannot be removed. Can I use the Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive product on top of the Deckover Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive after power washing? Getting new boards is simply not an option for me, financially. My deck is large, about 24′ by 12′. Thanks
You cannot “fix” the Deckover issues by adding the Gulf on top. Best to fully remove by sanding.
We pressure washed it. Used stripping stuff. And pressure washed again. Then sanded. Not all came off. Then used the cleaner. Can’t get it all off. Can I use this stuff now?
Post a picture please. What brand is the current stain?
I have deck over on it.
You can try but if the Gulf Deck Revive fails, it will because of the Behr Deckvoer under it.
Get a floor sander and remove it first I do these types often you must remove it first or it will peel off the revive because you are bonding to a failing product
With the gritty finish, would it be better to paint the fence and railings part of the deck than to apply Deck Revive? If so, would the paint color be different from the product color even if using the exact same paint?
You can use a solid color deck stain for the verticals. Just color that to the Deck Revive after application to the floors.
I used deck revive a couple years ago and the deck still looks great. However, I want to change my color. What are the steps involved in going over deck revive? Since the permabond has been used could I apply any latex over it like deck and dock from Sw, or do I need to use your product. Also would I need to use permabond again before I use your product or another latex?
Same as before. Apply the Permabond first and then two coats of the Deck Revive with your color added.
where can you purchase Deck Revive in metro Atlanta ga.
We are not sure who or if anyone stocks it. Best to contact the manufacturer.