How to paint fibre cement sheets on a deck?

[gsom]

Looking for a finishing paint for fibre cement sheets on an existing large outdoor deck - it was partially finished by previous owners and is currently unpainted fibre cement boards, which need a reseal/water protectant and joinings fixed up.

Would love to options for final paints that would suit that and what to seal it with prior to painting / after to protect it + to fix up joints. Needing something long lasting, non-slip (especially when wet) and strong against the elements. Open to any ideas on the final aesthetic of it. 

If no paint options, would love to know options to cover the fibre cement that is cost effective (it is a large space), with limited height able to be added on top.

Thanks!

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @gsom. It's brilliant to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about painting cement sheets .

It looks like the previous owners were preparing the area for waterproofing and tiling. Before deciding on a final finish, it’s worth considering the long-term use of the space and whether you might want to waterproof and tile it in the future. Painting fibre cement sheeting could make it more difficult to prepare the surface for tiling later, as paint would need to be removed to achieve proper adhesion and meet waterproofing standards.

First, check what’s under this area and whether water currently leaks through the sheets when it rains. If water leaks through, waterproofing might be necessary to prevent future issues.

If you’re set on painting the surface, you can use a high-quality concrete paint designed for outdoor use.  

For the joints, use a joint sealant that can handle movement and prevent cracking.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[gsom]

Thanks Mitchell! 

Tiling would definitely be ideal, but my worry about tiling was that all the sheets join in the same places so wasn't sure of the pressure onto the tiles this may cause + the height it will add (little clearance there to play with due to the doors onto it, but maybe just enough). 

Thanks!

[MitchellMc]

It might be worth getting a quote from a tiler @gsom; they can assess the area and let you know how the height would affect levels at the door threshold.

Mitchell