Paint your deck in minutes with this hack that is going viral on social media

If your deck needs a lick of paint, this trick will save your knees

decking area with outdoor seating
(Image credit: Future Publishing Ltd)

A social media hack for painting your decking has exploded online, with clips of the time-saving trick getting millions of views. We're not sure where exactly it began, but it involves taking a household broom to your paint tray and brushing the paint all over the decking as if you were sweeping it.

decking area with outdoor chairs and fence

(Image credit: Future Publishing Ltd)

A TikTok user called Dad Dancer shared a clip where he takes an ordinary broom and applies grey paint to his decking at an alarmingly fast rate. He says that the decking area needed two coats, and each coat took around 15 minutes. 

Overall, it's much quicker and less strenuous than the traditional method of using a paint roller or paintbrush to update your decking ideas. The DIY fan recommends using a broom with nice soft bristles, so that it doesn't flick paint around and ensures an even finish.

@dad.dancer

I had to use Kelly’s sound after doing this today! @thelifebath ##lifehack ##diy

♬ Ultimate life hacks - Kelly - The Life Bath

Many of us have been spending more time out in the garden recently, sprucing things up ready for summer. Painting or staining the decking and fencing is arguably one of the least enjoyable tasks, but this tip makes the process far easier.

TikTok has created a never-ending supply of DIY and cleaning hacks ranging in efficacy. But this one will genuinely save you time and a whole lot of bother. If you give it a go, be sure to read our guide on how to clean decking before you begin.

If you're looking to buy some new decking, our roundup of the best composite decking will help you narrow down your options depending on your taste and budget. 

decking area with outdoor furniture

(Image credit: Future Publishing Ltd)

The TikTok video has now had over 26 million views, plus reams of comments (some of which center around whether or not his decking is the right way up, but we'll save that for another article). 

'Wish this video was longer, super satisfying,' one commented.

decking area with outdoor table and chairs

(Image credit: Future Publishing Ltd)

'I have to stain my deck this summer and I'm so glad I saw this. It's going to save my back!' said another.

'We used a paintbrush yesterday, wish I knew this,' wrote a third.

It's safe to say the speedy trick has been a resounding success. Will you be trying it in your garden?

Millie Hurst
News Writer

Millie Hurst has worked in digital journalism for five years, having previously worked as a Senior SEO Editor at News UK both in London and New York. She joined the Future team in early 2021, working across several brands, including Gardeningetc. Now, she is Senior Content Editor at Ideal Home, taking care of evergreen articles aimed at inspiring people to make the most of their homes and outdoor spaces.