A pool deck is an ideal space to relax, entertain guests, or simply soak up the sun. But the right, high-quality pool decking can turn your backyard into a personal oasis as well as make your pool much safer to swim in. How do you elevate a simple backyard-and-pool setup?
Simple. You need to keep your needs in mind and match it with the right decking.
Unlike regular patios, pool decks have special performance requirements. They need to be resistant to chlorinated water, UV rays, and harsh pool chemicals. All these criteria can be met with a high-quality pool deck coating.
Pool deck coating factors to consider
Whether you’re considering decking your pool or updating an existing one, a good coating material will keep your pool deck looking great for many years to come. Not all deck coatings are made equal, however, so if you want to make the most of your investment make sure to keep these factors in mind.
Slip resistance
Floors in pool areas can get slippery over time because of the daily exposure to moisture. The ideal pool deck coating has the right friction coefficient to improve traction and reduce the risk of slips and falls. This can help protect people from injury and property owners from liability.
Waterproofing properties
When small cracks begin to form on your deck, water and chemicals from the pool can seep into the cracks and weaken the integrity of the deck. Water can increase the chance of mold, rot, and decay while chemical buildup can result in stains, cracks, and fading.
Neglecting waterproofing could ultimately lead to a complete deck rebuild, which could cost you more time and resources.
Heat reflectivity
Decks are constantly exposed to sun damage, and the absorption of harmful UV rays can result in cracks, stains, and fading. Moreover, sitting or walking barefoot can get very uncomfortable when your pool deck gets too hot. You want a pool deck that reflects heat rather than absorbs it.
Consider concrete coatings. They reflect solar radiation, making a deck coated in it more comfortable to walk on during warmer days than tiles or darker colored bricks. They may also be mixed with decorative toppings designed to dramatically reduce surface temperatures.
Ease of maintenance
Keeping your pool deck in pristine condition doesn’t have to be as cumbersome a task as you might think. While some coatings require a lot of maintenance, concrete coatings leave a smooth finish, so you can clean up dirt or spills quickly.
Bricks and tiles can shift over time, requiring replacement or releveling. Concrete, on the other hand, simply needs occasional cleaning and resurfacing to maintain its quality and appearance.
Aesthetic appeal
Make sure to choose a deck coating that complements your property and the surrounding landscape. Concrete coatings often come in various shapes, colors, and textures to add a decorative touch to your deck. Some concrete coatings even feature imprinted patterns that mimic tile, brick, or stone. Select a deck coating that allows a seamless transition from the interior to the outdoors.
Protect your pool deck with Life Specialty Coatings
Pool decks take a regular beating from foot traffic and harsh elements. If you notice cracks, chips, or discoloration, it might be time for a fresh finish. The longer you wait to coat your pool deck, the more it could cost you in repairs and possible injuries down the road.
Life Specialty Coatings offers brand concrete resurfacing products designed to keep pool areas safe, durable, and beautiful. Our waterproof coating products are slip- and UV ray-resistant, formulated to last long, and can be arranged in various styles and patterns.
Contact us now for project requests, job inspections, and product advice.
