Concrete Pool Deck Coatings: What You Need To Know

Concrete pool decks are a big investment, and proper protection can extend their lifespan and keep them looking their best. At Thome Waterproofing, we provide all types of concrete pool deck coating and waterproofing. Not every pool deck needs the same type of protection, so let’s dive in and look at the various coatings, sealants and other products that can be used to protect your deck.

Concrete Pool Deck Coatings Vs. Concrete Sealing

Both sealers and coatings are designed to protect concrete surfaces, but they work in different ways. A concrete sealer is primarily intended to preserve and protect the existing surface, while a concrete coating creates an additional layer that can improve both the appearance and performance of the concrete.

What Is a Concrete Sealer?

A concrete sealer is a protective treatment applied to the surface of concrete to help reduce damage from moisture, UV exposure, stains, and chemicals. Unlike a coating, a sealer is generally thin and is not intended to significantly change the look or texture of the concrete. There are two primary types of sealers:

Penetrating Sealers

Penetrating sealers soak into the concrete’s pores and create an invisible barrier below the surface. Because they don’t form a film on top of the concrete, they typically maintain the concrete’s natural appearance while helping to repel water and contaminants.

These sealers are often used on:

• Concrete pool decks
• Concrete pavers
• Walkways
• Driveways
• Patios

The benefits of penetrating sealers include:

• Water resistance
• Protection against stains
• Reduced damage from freeze-thaw cycles (where applicable)
• Minimal change to the concrete’s appearance
• Long-lasting protection with little maintenance

Film-Forming Sealers

Film-forming sealers create a thin protective layer on the surface of the concrete. They are commonly used on decorative concrete because they can enrich color and provide either a matte, satin, or glossy finish.

Many stamped concrete pool decks use this type of sealer because it enhances the decorative coloring and patterns while protecting the surface from weather and pool chemicals.

The benefits of film-forming sealers include:

• Enhances decorative finishes
• Helps resist stains and moisture
• Makes cleaning easier
• Available in different sheen levels

Because film-forming sealers remain on the surface, they generally require periodic reapplication as they wear over time.

What Is a Concrete Coating?

A concrete coating is a thicker material that is applied over the concrete to create a new protective and decorative surface. Rather than simply preserving the existing finish, pool deck coatings can significantly change how the concrete looks and feels.

Depending on the product, a coating may:

• Add color
• Create decorative textures
• Improve slip resistance
• Increase durability
• Help mask minor surface imperfections
• Refresh older, weathered concrete

Concrete pool deck coatings are often acrylic or polymer-modified products that are specifically formulated for outdoor environments. Many also include textured finishes that improve traction around wet areas.

When Is a Sealer the Better Choice?

A sealer is often the best option when the concrete is still in good condition but needs protection from everyday wear and the elements.

For example, homeowners may choose a sealer when:

• A new pool deck has recently been installed.
• The surface has only minor wear.
• They want to preserve the existing appearance.
• Water is beginning to soak into the concrete rather than bead on the surface.

Routine resealing every few years can significantly extend the life of a concrete pool deck while helping it maintain its original appearance.

When Is Pool Deck Coating the Better Choice?

Decorative pool deck coatings may be more appropriate when the concrete has become worn or outdated but is still structurally sound.

Examples include:

• Faded or uneven color
• Cosmetic surface wear
• Minor surface imperfections
• Reduced slip resistance
• Desire for a completely updated appearance

A deck coating can often give an aging pool area a fresh new look without the expense of removing and replacing the concrete. Additionally, we often recommend applying a cool deck coating to ensure that bare feet are comfortable on hot days. We also can add a textured surface to make the pool deck more slip-resistant.

What About Stamped Concrete & Pavers?

Stamped concrete is designed to mimic the appearance of premium materials like natural stone, slate, brick, or flagstone, but achieving that realistic look involves more than simply pressing a pattern into wet concrete.

Once the design is in place and the surface has fully dried, a protective sealer should be applied. New stamped concrete pool decks typically don’t need decorative coatings, but after a few years of exposure to sunlight and weather as well as foot traffic and pool chemicals, the colors can fade, and it can be smart to restore the concrete with a professionally applied decorative coating.

When it comes to pavers, these often come from the factory with a sealant applied. However, pavers should be resealed about every three to five years to protect them from fading and to reduce water absorption. Sometimes, a professional waterproofing contractor might also recommend applying new joint sand between the pavers before sealing the pool deck.

What About Other Deck Surfaces?

Concrete is a common option for pool decks because it is highly durable and generally more affordable than other substrates. However, some homeowners opt for materials such as natural stone, wood, or composite materials, and some of these will need resealing.

Natural stone, such as travertine and slate, typically will need to be resealed about every three to five years, but because it already has a pleasing natural appearance, decorative coatings are not necessary.

Wood pool decks also definitely benefit from resealing every one to three years to protect against UV damage and to reduce moisture absorption, as this can cause mold and mildew growth and attract pests such as termites. We can provide you with quality wood deck coating services that protect and beautify your decking materials, as well as prevent water and stains from penetrating into the wood.

Composite decking is manufactured from a blend of recycled plastics and wood fibers, making it much lower maintenance than traditional wood. These materials typically do not need resealing, nor will they benefit from any type of decorative coating.

Thome Waterproofing: Serving Los Angeles & Beyond

At Thome Waterproofing, we can provide you with any type of pool deck coating or sealing that you might need, including concrete pool deck coating. Additionally, we provide comprehensive deck waterproofing and balcony waterproofing.

Balcony and deck waterproofing services typically involve much more than simply adding a sealant to a decorative coating. This can involve replacing the deck surface as well as re-grading the deck or balcony and perhaps adding new flashing around the perimeter to ensure that the deck is completely watertight and won’t leak into the structure of your home.

We also provide services such as retaining wall waterproofing, and below grade waterproofing, including blindside waterproofing and crawlspace waterproofing. We serve residential and commercial clients in Los Angeles County, Ventura County and beyond. Whether you need concrete pool deck coatings or another of our quality services, contact us at any time to discuss your project and receive a free cost estimate for our services.