Pool Deck

If you have a smooth, already bonded concrete surface, painting a concrete pool deck can be a great way to brighten up the area and add longevity. If the surface has another covering or a different type of paint has been used previously, you won’t be able to paint it without removing the existing coating. Wooden decks benefit from painting as it helps to keep them watertight. Quality pool deck paints also help make the surface less slippery and less likely to gather mold and mildew or prematurely crack.

Painting a damaged pool deck is not recommended if the substrate is crumbling, cracking, spalling, or otherwise actively deteriorating. Continuing deterioration will result in the paint also delaminating or flaking off the damaged surface. Minor damage such as chips or hairline cracks that are not actively deteriorating can often be repaired enough to paint over. A damaged pool deck with a lot of cracking and deterioration should be replaced for best results.

The “best” material is in the eye of the beholder, as each common decking material boasts its pros and cons. Poured concrete is the best budget-friendly option, but composite wood brings high-grade aesthetics without breaking the bank. Wood is the most traditional material, but it requires more maintenance than some other materials. In other words, do your research before settling on a deck material to find the one that’s best for your pool.

The least expensive way to build a pool deck is with concrete deck blocks, pressure-treated lumber, and the appropriate hardware for hanging joists and securing deck boards. With these basic yet durable deck materials, you'll have a pool deck that's built to last without the high price tag. You should also stain or seal the deck to protect it against the elements.