NOTE: You must use PermaBond as a primer coat and is purchased separately.
Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive Review
Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive is a one-of-a-kind DIY resurfacing kit designed to bring old, weathered wood decks back to life. Rather than replacing splintered, cracked, and aging boards, Deck Revive gives your deck a new, textured, slip-resistant surface that lasts for years — all while letting you choose any color you want.
What Is Deck Revive?
Deck Revive is an acrylic-based polymer coating that bonds to aging wood, filling cracks, locking down splinters, and providing a tough, flexible surface. Unlike traditional deck stains and paints that simply add color, Deck Revive restores structural integrity and gives your outdoor space a refreshed, safer surface.
How It Works
Each Deck Revive Kit includes:
- A liquid polymer component
- A dry component
- You supply 1 gallon of exterior acrylic latex paint in any color
Just mix the components together, add your chosen paint, and roll it on with standard painting tools. It dries quickly — apply in the morning and enjoy your deck the same day.
Coverage & Application
- Coverage: ~200 sq. ft. (two coats) per kit
- Dry Time: Fast-drying for minimal downtime
- Tools Needed: Paint roller, brush, paint tray — no special equipment required
- Application Tip: Be generous — this is a high-build coating meant to fill cracks and cover splinters.
Pro Tip: Prep is critical. Clean thoroughly and allow wood to dry before applying Deck Revive. Use a deck cleaner and make sure to remove any loose coatings beforehand.
Features & Benefits
✅ Fills in cracks
✅ Locks down splinters and nail heads
✅ Slip-resistant and textured finish
✅ Unlimited color choice — just add your preferred exterior paint
✅ Water-based, non-toxic, and VOC-free
✅ Fire-, scuff-, and stain-resistant
✅ Easy cleanup with water
✅ Eco-friendly — extends deck life and reduces landfill waste
Ideal Surfaces
- Old pressure-treated decking
- Docks, walkways, porches
- Wood steps and stairs
Deck Revive works best on older, structurally sound wood. If your deck boards are warped, rotted, or structurally compromised, they’ll still need replacement before coating.
Why Choose Deck Revive?
Traditional deck stains need annual reapplication and don’t solve deeper surface issues. Deck Revive is a permanent deck resurfacing system — not just a paint or stain. It builds a flexible, rubberized layer over the wood that resists cracking from expansion and contraction cycles.
You’ll save thousands compared to full deck replacement and cut way back on maintenance time. Plus, it’s kid- and pet-safe once dry — no more splinters!
Final Thoughts
If your deck is structurally sound but looks like it’s been through too many harsh seasons, Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive is a game-changing solution. It’s easy to apply, fully customizable in color, and turns tired old decking into a safe, durable, beautiful surface for years of worry-free use.
Deck Resurfacing Coating Comparison Chart
Feature / Product | Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive | Rust-Oleum RockSolid 20X | Behr Premium Advanced DeckOver |
---|---|---|---|
Base Type | Acrylic Polymer + Latex Paint | Water-based Acrylic | Water-based Acrylic |
Color Options | Unlimited (you add your own paint) | Pre-tinted color options only | Pre-tinted color options only |
Coverage (2 coats) | ~200 sq. ft. per kit | ~80–120 sq. ft. per 1-gal | ~75 sq. ft. per 1-gal |
Finish | Textured, slip-resistant | Textured, non-slip | Textured, slip-resistant |
Durability | 3–5 years with proper prep | 2–3 years average | 1–3 years average |
Crack Filling Capability | Up to 1/4″ | Up to 1/4″ | Up to 1/4″ |
Splinter Lockdown | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Dry Time (Touch/Use) | 2–4 hours / same day use | 4–6 hours / 24–48 hours recommended | 4 hours / 24 hours |
Application Tools | Brush, roller, standard paint tools | Specialized RockSolid roller recommended | Brush, roller |
Cleanup | Soap and water | Soap and water | Soap and water |
VOC / Eco-Friendliness | VOC-free, non-toxic, water-based | Low-VOC | Low-VOC |
Primer Needed? | Yes – included in system | No (self-priming) | No (self-priming) |
Surface Prep Needed | High – clean, strip loose coatings | Moderate – clean and prep | Moderate – clean and prep |
Best Use Case | DIYers wanting full customization + deck longevity | Budget-friendly facelift for older decks | Quick fix for lightly worn decks |
Retail Availability | Online specialty retailers | Big box stores (Home Depot, Menards) | Home Depot |
Summary:
- Deck Revive stands out with unlimited color options, a durable, flexible polymer finish, and better long-term protection. It’s ideal for seriously weathered decks where users want a DIY but long-lasting solution.
- RockSolid 20X is thicker but can be tricky to apply and more prone to peeling if prep is lacking.
- Behr DeckOver is easy to find and apply but tends to have the shortest lifespan of the three.