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Concrete Pool Deck Renovations: Tips to Make Your Next Project a Success
Many people think they are better off just replacing their concrete pool decks when they show wear and tear signs instead of undertaking a costly renovation project. As you keep on reading, this couldn’t be further from the truth. A well-designed outdoor space not only brings new life to your backyard but also prolongs the life of your pool by eliminating stress points and potential hazards.
The best way to prevent these issues is with a renovation process that carefully evaluates these factors beforehand.
The Ultimate Swimming Pool Renovation Experience
At first glance, it may seem like a simple job to tear up the pool decking and instantly replace it with something better. The truth is that if you choose to do it yourself, there are no warranties or guarantees on the materials you use, and there is no guarantee that your experience will be as easy.
An outdoor decorative concrete renovation project should complement and enhance every other element in the backyard. Ensuring this happens requires expertise and knowledge of a decorative concrete contractor that has gained this knowledge through years of experience in the business.
Advantages of Pool Deck Renovation
The cost for pool decks can vary depending on certain factors, including the materials and designs involved in each project. It’s important to take into consideration additional expenses when coming up with your budget. Consider these factors for your project.
- It has been proven that decorative concrete resurfacing is better because it’s a less invasive process that restores structures to their original integrity without compromising their strength or stability, only improving them.
- When you have Structural Reinforced Concrete Decks [SRCD] installed on top of your existing surface, it eliminates stress points, reduces expansion & contraction, and prevents cracking long before it becomes an issue all.
- The process restores your old pool decking to like-new condition without the high cost of replacement, making it a viable option for homeowners who don’t wish to commit to the expense of an entire renovation.
- It’s a simple, fast, and affordable resurface project.
Disadvantages of Pool Deck Renovation
For some homeowners, the cost associated with renovating their pool deck may not be worth it. While others are willing to spend more on these types of projects, it’s often viewed that they do so, hoping that the pool area will last longer than a new concrete slab would have and give back its slip-resistant properties.
Consumers feel there is no significant difference between restoring an existing concrete and completely replacing it. But according to experienced contractors, there are still some advantages to consider before making that decision.
- The biggest drawback is that pool deck resurfacing doesn’t provide the same benefits as a deck replacement. While it restores the concrete surface to its original condition, it doesn’t have the added benefits of being structurally reinforced.
- Another drawback is that pool deck resurfacing, or staining does not last forever. Hence, if you want your pool deck to last forever, this isn’t the option for you because eventually, you’ll have to complete another renovation project in 5-10 years when all of the product has worn off.
Cost of pool deck renovations
According to industry standards, the costs of pool deck renovations are anywhere between $25-$35 per square foot. This is cheaper than ripping up an entire 200 foot by 30-foot pool area that would set you back around $70-$90/sqft, not including the cost of excavation, concrete, or disposal fees which can be upwards of $15-20/sqft.
On average, consumers reported spending anywhere from $4,500 to $20,000 on their concrete surface restoration projects, whereas replacing an entire decking is estimated at costing between $7,000 and $25,000. This is partly due because owners choose to use more expensive materials like tile pavers rather than concrete.
Pool Deck Renovation Concepts
Although swimming pool deck renovation contractors will have different ways of doing the projects, these are generally the steps made in completing the job. Knowing these steps will help you decide on any course of action. Find out what it takes to renovate your pool decks with this straightforward guide.
Step 1: Remove old pavers or go with pool deck resurfacing
Poured concrete is exceptionally durable; that’s why replacing your poured concrete pool deck has long been considered an unnecessary waste of time and money. However, over time even the most durable surfaces like poured concrete show signs of wear. Your pool deck may be showing cracks or heavy staining, so inspect where the cracks have formed to see where water may be seeping into the pool itself.
Step 2: Fill in any cracks or holes that may have appeared
If you find spots where water is sitting after rain, note how deep they are and how wide. Then look for other areas on the surface that appear similar and mark these as potential trouble spots.
In the worst-case scenario, if there are any cracked or damaged areas throughout your concrete pool decking, it might be time to get a professional opinion from a renovation contractor before doing anything else. Cracks near drains can speed up the damage done by corrosive chemicals because this exposes more of your concrete’s surface area to attack from harmful substances.
Step 3: Evaluate your pool deck for signs of delamination or spalling
Delamination and spalling are two terms that describe signs of corrosion on your concrete pool deck. Delamination occurs when water seeps into the pores and cracks and then freezes during cold winter months, causing deterioration from the inside out. Spalling is a similar concept, but instead of freezing, water seeping into pores and cracks, causing them to expand under heat, leaving small sinkholes behind.
These issues need to be addressed before you proceed because, if left untreated, they will only worsen over time, resulting in even more damage done to your concrete pool deck. If you can’t recognize these signs of corrosion, call a renovation contractor for an inspection and evaluation.
Step 4: Grind away delaminated and spalled areas.
Once the assessment is complete and any damage inspected, it’s time to grind down affected areas of your pool deck using powerful diamond abrasive blades on floor grinding machines.
Machines like this are designed to take out imperfections without damaging the surrounding concrete or having these particles get into your pool. If you don’t want residue (spalling) sent right back into your swimming pool this way, make sure it’s rinsed off entirely before continuing.
Step 5: Apply epoxy primer coats to cover stains or cracks
Stains can cover up what used to be a beautiful pool deck, but once the old coat of paint is removed, it’s possible to restore your concrete to its former, slip-resistant glory.
Concrete stain always brings out the best in any surface when done well. When you’re choosing a product for this step, make sure that it can stand up to foot traffic and prevents delamination because if not applied correctly, both moisture and lack of proper drainage can lead to even more problems down the road.
Step 6: Repair cracks in the pool deck by applying mesh tape over them
Use mesh tapes to fill holes or cracks in poured concrete surfaces. Make sure they aren’t exposed once completed.
Step 7: Apply the first layer of epoxy for a base coat
After all the minor repairs are done, it’s time to start filling in large areas with a two-part epoxy resin. These products are formulated for use on concrete, so you know they will bond well and last a long time.
This step requires professional equipment because it involves sprayers that send out many different coats applied simultaneously from multiple angles.
Suppose you’re planning to redo your pool deck yourself. In that case, this product should not be used because it needs special attention paid throughout the application process to avoid imperfections and bubbles that can’t be removed later without ruining an entire coat.
Step 8: Apply polyaspartic topcoats.
Polyaspartic topcoats are formulated to be used over concrete pool decks because their natural tendency is to resist water damage, scratches, and even stains. It makes outdoor space maintenance easier so long as you keep up with regular cleanings.
Today, several brands offer various benefits regarding the finish they leave behind and how well they stand up against everyday use. Look for a product from an established manufacturer offering more than one type of finish or level of protection.
The best way to ensure you are protecting your pool deck with polyaspartic is by checking with the manufacturer before beginning construction on any project, so you know you’re using the right product for the job.
If there isn’t enough information available, consider how well it will adhere to existing surfaces and what types of foot traffic it will be able to handle before making a final decision about whether or not it’s worth trying.
Polyaspartic coatings are available in either water-based or solvent-based formulas depending on personal preference. Still, both options are completely safe for anyone who comes in contact with them, thanks to their low VOC levels.
Step 9: Clean up debris left over from grinding your poured concrete pool deck
You’ll want to use a pressure washer or wet-dry vacuum to ensure the pool area is clean of any remaining debris before applying any product.
Step 10: Stain or seal the concrete to add color and protection
Stain and sealers for concrete can be applied to your pool deck 24 hours after grinding, and all dust has been removed.
Remember that sealing your pool deck requires regular inspections every six months to ensure that it stays clean and clear of debris or if the damage is present that needs addressing immediately instead of letting it go until something significant happens.
A good rule of thumb is to look at the deck from a distance and ask yourself whether you’d feel comfortable walking barefoot on it; if not, then take a closer look and start making a list of the things you need to fix.
Color Clashing With Pool Decks
When planning your pool deck renovation, it’s crucial to avoid clashing colors that won’t coordinate with materials like pavers and stones. Pavers generally come in five different types: sandstone, bluestone, granite, limestone, and travertine. Stones like bluestone and sandstone work best with decks made of the same material; on the other hand, contrasting colors can create a stunning look that is sure to be the envy of your neighbors.
Coordinating concrete staining with exterior lighting is another way to draw attention to your new space during the day and night. If you have an outdoor fireplace or even a fire pit planned for future addition later down the road, don’t forget to factor in the space and materials you’ll need for installation.
Final thoughts
The idea that a properly designed pool deck can give your backyard an instant makeover might seem too good to be true. But the real benefit of improving your pool’s surrounding area isn’t in its visual appeal; it’s in extending the life of your pool at a fraction of the cost.
The bottom line is that a well-designed outdoor space not only brings new life to your backyard but also prolongs the life of your pool by eliminating stress points and potential hazards.
If you need help designing an outdoor project for your home, SAT Stained Concrete is here to partner with you! We’ll work with you on colors, textures, and materials based on what suits both your budget and personal tastes. Give us a call or stop by our website today for free estimates from one of our experts!
Our main mission is to provide top-quality concrete services that are designed to always meet and exceed our client’s expectations and demands.
