How to Select a Material for your Pool Deck
When choosing a material for your pool deck it is important to consider factors such as cost, slip-resistance (particularly for those with children), durability and the need for maintenance. Of course, it is also important to consider aesthetical qualities and how it will compliment the surroundings to enhance your pool
Does Concrete Make a Good Pool Deck Material?
As a result of its durability, concrete is a perfect pool deck material. It is both low maintenance and fade resistant and ideal for those on a limited budget.
In terms of installation, it is far less expensive to install than other products such as pavers or bricks. These need to be installed on an individual basis, which makes them highly labor intensive.
Providing it is sealed properly, concrete is also resistant to pool chemicals and water exposure. Poured concrete, unlike bricks and paving units, doesn’t require re-leveling or replacing. It is weed free and requires only the occasional clean and resealing in order to maintain its appearance.
Concrete and the Need for Consistency
When creating your concrete pool deck it is essential that every batch of concrete is identical. If it isn’t this could result in color variations and might spoil the finish of your pool decking.
In order to achieve a uniform color it is important to be consistent with the cement brand and type, the aggregates used and the water-cement ratio. Even a small difference in any of these may result in a noticeable color variation. It is also important to be consistent in the timing of operations, curing, finishing practices and sealing in order to avoid colour variations.
Are Concrete Pool Decks Child-Friendly?
Although concrete pool decks may be slippery when wet, this can be improved by combining a non-skid grit additive with a sealant. The type of sealer used can also have an impact on the slipperiness of the pool decking so we recommend using either no sealant at all (unless it is combined with a grit additive) or a penetrating matt finish sealer.
Creating a Slip-Resistant Concrete Pool Deck
Improving the slip-resistance of your concrete pool decks can be done either by texturing the concrete itself (for example with a broom) or by applying a gritty material to the surface of the concrete. This can be done by incorporating a grit additive into the sealer before applying it, putting down a textured overlay, or, in extreme cases, adding a grit faced tape to the surface. As a final option, rubber mats can be used, but this is not the most attractive option and should only be used as a last resort.
Give your Pool Deck a Make-Over
Why not rejuvenate your pool deck with a concrete topping? These can be applied to an existing deck
providing that the base is solid. If it isn’t the overlay may not adhere correctly. If there is a pre-existing slab the surface may need to be scoured and filed first in order to remove any existing surface cracks and prepare it for adhesion.
Can I Keep my Concrete Pool Decking Cool?
In comparison to darker colored pool decks such as those made from brick or tiles, concrete reflects solar radiation and so remains comparatively cool underfoot. If you live in a hot climate it is possible to keep the surface cooler by selecting concrete in light shades such as pearl white or sand. Another alternative is to apply a cement-polymer spray over it in order to reflect the heat. This creates air pockets which help to maintain the surface cooler underfoot.
How to Design your Concrete Pool Deck
Once the basic pool deck material has been decided upon it is also important to consider how you will create the pool border. Also known as the pool coping, using a contrasting color and pattern to reflect the surroundings can enhance the overall appeal of your pool deck. There are several materials which can be used for the pool border including limestone and concrete tiles.
Introducing terrace levels in your pool decking is a technique which can be used to create separate areas for recreation and lounging. This can be used to create a children’s area, with a separate area for eating and those all important dinner dates.
However you decide to design your pool deck, concrete is an ideal pool deck material. Although durable and economical it still gives you the flexibility to add personal touches to your design.
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