To have a lot of fun when summer comes, nothing compares with a swimming pool in the backyard. Although your main focus may be the water in it, the decking around it is also very important as it goes a long way to dictate how well it matches your landscape, and most importantly, the safety of the swimmers.
If you are a homeowner having a hard time deciding whether you should go for a stamped concrete pool deck, this article will be of help to you. We explore five major reasons to get a stamped concrete pool deck. Click here for more information and resources about stamped concrete.
The benefits of a stamped concrete pool deck
There are many reasons why you may want to consider getting a stamped concrete pool deck. The following are some of the major reasons:
- Highly customizable
The color, design, and pattern options available for stamped concrete pool decks are unlimited. Your stamped concrete pool deck can even be made to imitate patterns tiles, pavers, wood, or natural stone. Depending on your preferences, you have a wide array of options to pick from. You can even request stamp customization that will include your favorite design or pattern from the contractor or supplier.
- Easy and fast to install
The installation of traditional pool decks is usually difficult and must be done by a professional. While you will still need to engage a professional to install your stamped concrete pool deck, the process is always fast and easy. You may even choose to do it on your own as long as you have the time and you talk to a professional for proper guidance. The process involves simply mixing the concrete, pouring it in the required spaces, compacting and stamping it. After this, you just leave it to dry.
- Long lifespan
One of the strongest and most durable materials in the construction industry is concrete. Being purely made of concrete, the stamped concrete pool deck has these qualities. If the pool deck is properly mixed, poured, and compacted, it can last for many years without giving any signs of damage or deterioration. Considering that concrete is used in wet conditions, admixtures can be used to extend their lifespan. This will improve the water-resistance of the stamped concrete pool deck.
- Quite affordable
When compared to the pool decks made from stones, tiles, bricks, or other traditional materials, the cost of installing a stamped concrete pool deck is low. This affordability can be traced to the minimal labor requirements and the little maintenance it requires. The cost can also be further reduced if you buy recycled stamped concrete.
- Removes safety concerns
Safety is one of the major concerns of many homeowners when it comes to concrete pool decks. The truth is that pool decks can become slippery if they are not properly installed, thereby threatening the safety of your family. However, if you work with a professional concrete contractor, they will recommend that your concrete pool deck installation should be accompanied by additional texture and an anti-slip coating.
How long does pool deck resurfacing last?
When your pool deck is resurfaced using concrete overlays, it becomes renewed. This enhances the curb appeal of the whole pool area. The longevity of your resurfaced pool deck will be affected by different factors. One of the major considerations is the type of overlay or coating used during the resurfacing.
Some of the factors that affect the durability of the pool deck are the region, foot traffic, temperature, weather exposure, moisture, maintenance, the brand of the product, how good the installer is, and the exposure to pool water chemicals.
If you are going for an acrylic sealant to resurface your pool deck, you can expect it to last for about five years before resealing, as it doesn’t last much when most exposed to traffic.
For textured or stamped overlays, a modified polymer can be used. With proper maintenance and consistent resealing, you can expect them to last for decades.
Cool decking is another option to resurface your pool deck and it is known to last for at least ten years. However, the lifespan of this resurfacing option can be reduced by freezing weather.
Is stamped concrete around a pool slippery?
When a pool is combined with stamped concrete, it does not necessarily mean there is going to be a problem. A topical sealer is usually the culprit when the surface of the stamped concrete near a pool is slippery. It is important that you pay attention to this before you fix a stamped concrete that is slippery.
There are many ways and products that can be used to ensure that your stamped pool deck becomes less slippery when wet. One of the most effective methods is to mix a non-slip additive into a solvent-based acrylic sealer, after which you start rolling it on. Also, while the sealer is still tacky, more of the ground-up polymer can be spread onto the wet surface.
Some of these products are available in many different particle sizes for more or less traction.
How much does stamped concrete around a pool cost?
The main determinants of how much you will be spending on a stamped concrete pool deck are the square footage, shape, materials, labor, and other additional features you would like to be installed. Each deck project has its unique specifications, which in turn influences the cost of installation.
For example, it would only cost you between $6 to $15 per square foot to get a one-color or one-pattern standard designed pool deck. However, if you’d like to add a few more colors, you will be spending between $12 to $20 per square foot. The implication of this is that going by the $15 per square foot, to construct a stamped concrete pool deck of 100 square feet would cost you about $1500 on the materials only. You will then need to factor in the other determinants. Home Advisor gives a more extensive cost guide on the installation of the stamped concrete pool deck.
The best way to get an exact figure on how much it would cost you to construct a stamped concrete pool deck is to engage the service of a professional concrete contractor. They will inspect your home, help you in picking your designs, and come up with an estimate that you can easily work with.
Conclusion
Having said all this, there is no doubt that there are many benefits to getting a stamped concrete pool deck. It is affordable, durable, highly customizable, easy to install and maintain, and safe, especially when installed by an experienced professional concrete contractor.
