Give your old worn deck or patio a new lease on life with a couple of coats of acrylic polymer fortified paint.

This special type of restorative paint is relatively new to the market. Similar versions with various aggregates are made by almost every deck stain manufacturer out there.

Choosing the right product for the job is the first step in creating a visually appealing, structurally sound face-lift for any horizontal wood, composite or concrete surface.

Step 1: Polymer paints are designed for horizontal surfaces and come in a wide range of colors. Look for a product that states it will fill up to 1/4-inch crevices and lock down splitters. One gallon should be enough to cover 75 square feet with the required two coats of product. Cabot Deck Correct and Rustoleum Deck Restore are two of the many products out there.

Step 2: Clean the surface thoroughly using a good-quality deck cleaner or phosphate-free TSP. Scrub the surface vigorously and let the cleaner set for a while before hosing it off with a high-pressure garden hose nozzle. Allow the deck or patio to dry completely before proceeding.

Step 3: Check to make sure deck is clean and free of any sap residue or mildew stains. Patch cracks and crevices that are deeper than 1/4 inch with a good-quality exterior wood filler or an appropriate patching compound for concrete or composite surfaces.

Step 4: Choose a day when there is no rain predicted and temperatures are expected to remain above 50 degrees and below 90 degrees for at least 48 hours. Avoid applying product in direct sunlight.

Step 5: Shake and stir the product thoroughly. Work in small sections at a time to ensure a smooth and even application. Read the manufacturer’s instructions entirely before proceeding.

Step 6: Use a thick natural bristle brush to apply the product to cracks and crevices.

Step 7: Use a 3/8-inch nap roller to spread the first coat of product over each section. Work in long continuous strokes to create a smooth and even application.

Step 8: Allow the first coat of product to dry for 4-6 hours and then apply the second and final coat.

— Have a home improvement question for the Fix-It Chick? Email it to Linda Cottin at features@ljworld.com.