A pool deck is the surrounding landscape area of a swimming pool which is constructed for use by pool users. It usually surrounds the whole perimeter of the pool and is known as surround, deck or decking. A pool deck can be concrete (usually for in-ground pools) or wood and composite (primarily for above-ground pools).
Although pool coping also surrounds the perimeter of a pool, pool decking and pool coping are different. Pool coping is a cap around the pool’s edge, which is usually about 12 inches wide. Pool decking is much larger. It accommodates resting spaces, chairs, and maybe a cocktail spot or barbecue grill. A pool deck allows you to personalize and add creativity to your swimming pool.
A pool deck is important for safety and aesthetic purposes. In fact, it is often the most-used part of the pool. Although, it is possible to construct a pool without a deck, it is not advisable. A pool deck serves as a distance barrier away from the water. Imagine there is no deck; accidents like falling into the pool might be almost unavoidable. This can be dangerous, especially for children and non swimmers.
A pool deck also serves important aesthetic purposes. Designing your pool deck according to personal taste and use adds aesthetic value to your home environment. There are numerous gorgeous designs to implement in designing a pool deck. You can decide to plant flowers, use colorful floor materials, etc.
Materials Commonly Used For Decks
The material used for a pool deck must have enough traction to prevent falls and slips and may also provide aesthetic value. There a variety of materials that are often used in the construction of pool decks. Below, we will discuss each trending style as well as their pros and cons.
Concrete
Concrete is a structural material made of hard, chemically inert particulate substances known as aggregate (usually sand and gravel) bonded by cement and water and hardens over time.
Pros
Using concrete reduces the risk of slipping when swimmers walk bare-footed. Concrete decks are also more durable and long-lasting. They are also very affordable.
Cons
Concrete can begin to set within minutes on a hot, sunny day because they dry quickly. If a concrete deck is not smoothened quickly, it could cause the decking to break out, and you might have to start all over.
Pavers
Concrete pavers are good alternatives to concrete. They are an excellent option for pool decks because of their durability, resistance to chlorine and salt. They also provide the look of natural stone, which can improve the aesthetics of the pool deck. They are also affordable, although they are more pricey than concrete, especially when they are natural stone pavers.
Pros
The surface of pavers feel comfortable under foot because the interlocks take up moisture quickly, cooling the feet.
Cons
If not installed correctly by a professional, pavers can sink, creating an uneven decking surface.
Wood
Wood is a hard material serves as the main constituent of the trunk and branches of trees and are often used as fuel or timber in the production of furniture, construction of buildings, transportation media, e.g., boats etc. Wood is popularly used for the construction of pool decks.
Pros
It’s less costly and easy to work with. Using wood for a pool deck gives a natural appearance and feel. Wood can be built off the ground, i.e., away from where it is to be used, which makes it a good choice for irregular landscapes.
Cons
It is difficult to maintain a wooden pool deck. The wood must be regularly stained and sealed to prevent color loss and damage, which may cost more time and money, especially if the deck is large.
Composite wood might be a good option if you must by-pass the maintenance requirements of a wooden pool deck.
Concrete Pool Deck Options
Concrete decks can be given a lovely finish by adding some decorative patterns. It can be broom-finished, exposed aggregate, imprinted patterns that mimic tile, brick, natural stone, and even wood. Different decorative methods can also be combined, such as combining stained and stenciled concrete. Below are some decorative concrete pool deck options.
Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete is a kind of concrete that has been imprinted, patterned, textured, or embossed to resemble brick, slate, flagstone, stone, tile, wood, or various other patterns and textures. Stamped concrete is the ideal choice for decks which have the natural features of these materials.
Stamped concrete adds texture to a pool deck, thereby improving traction. They mimic natural wood, stone, brick, etc., while still being budget-friendly. It is durable, affordable and easy to maintain. Stamped concrete is resistant to harsh pool chemicals, constant water exposure, and fading when adequately sealed. There are various patterns and colors, e.g., wood stamping, seamless stamping, flagstone patterns, etc.
Stained Concrete
Staining concrete is the process of altering the color and texture of concrete to create textures that resemble the shades of other materials like wood, stone, brick, flagstone, marble, and so on. Staining concrete provides several hues and tones for concrete through different solutions and methods. Concrete can be stained using an acid stain, water-based stain, etc.
Stained concrete usually has a brightening effect on dull surfaces. Also, it is affordable, and the possibilities are endless. You can get creative and make unique, custom colors for your pool deck.
Polished Concrete
Polished concrete is obtained when the surface of concrete is ground mechanically, honed and polished with bonded abrasives for a smooth, high-gloss finish.
Polished concrete is extremely strong and durable; it is affordable, slip-resistant, easy to clean and maintain. When properly installed, it is water-resistant and lasts long (even in harsh environmental conditions).
We use all these methods expertly for different concrete coating solutions. However, there may be some additional steps for specific situations.
Armor Coatings Services
At Armor Coatings, we specialize in epoxy floors, limestone floors, polishing, micro topping, and many more. Our customers testify to our timeliness, professionalism, friendly staff, excellent service, good quality and great prices. At Armor Coatings, we are big on making your projects quick and convenient, budget friendly and paying attention to all specified details.
We have been in the industry for over 35 years and have, over the years, perfected our craft. With our vast experience, seamless skillfulness, modern expertise and equipment, using our services at Armor Coatings give you the best offers without stress. Our services are customer-oriented and effective.
