With the 100 percent acrylic resins that are on the market, they're outperforming the old solvent-based systems. Other, inventive solutions may also be on the horizon. Neary predicted a growth in oil and latex combination products that will meet regulations, but still offer the advantage of solvents. However, Saiter noted an increase in paint that matches the color of the house on the vertical surfaces of some decks. Occasionally, consumers pick a marine varnish type transparent, which has the same maintenance problems as paint, but offers a much more attractive surface.
Initial application requires multiple coats.
Additionally, while a deck treated with a matte or low-luster penetrating product will require an easily applied new coat in the future, a disintegrating varnish will require stripping, sanding, and a complete redo. Overall, the trend is towards complex products that perform multiple uses such as UV sunlight block, mildew resistance, and water repellence, thinks Marsh. He expects products such as plain old linseed oil coatings and other unsophisticated, unmodified products to disappear in the near future. Another new trend is prefinished lumber for decks, though manufacturers have conflicting opinions about its significance. Marsh added that pre-finished products don't last as long as they claim to.