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The Concrete Source - Outdoor Surfaces

A Monthly Newsletter about Decorative Concrete Outdoors               July 2009
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What to Watch: Video Series on Concrete Pool Decks

Pool deck videos

Concrete hardscape expert  Scott Cohen of The Green Scene shows stunning examples of three popular pool deck options: stamped concrete, concrete pavers and exposed aggregate. He also offers tips on pool deck layout, decorative copings and determining deck size and shape.

Pool Deck Surface Ideas

Pool Coping Selection

Pool Deck Layout

Pool Deck Size & Shape

Pool Deck Safety

Pool Deck Orientation


Pool Deck Safety Tips

Exposed-aggregate deck

Concrete pool decks can be slippery when wet, but there are easy ways you can improve the traction without  detracting from the decorative appearance, such as exposing the aggregate. Get advice on how to make pool deck surfaces slip resistant, along with other pool deck safety tips.


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How to Add Splash to a
Concrete Pool Deck

Hi  ,
 
Northeast Decorative ConcreteMany swimming pool owners actually spend more time lounging on the deck surrounding the pool than in the water doing the backstroke, which makes the deck even more essential as an element in good pool design. With decorative concrete, the options for the look of a pool deck are unlimited, and with a few additional enhancements, you can create a resort-like atmosphere perfect for a backyard staycation. Here are five tips for building the ultimate summer retreat for your clients.

Jim Peterson,
The Concrete Network


1. Add pattern, color and texture.
Fan pattern pool deckConcrete pool decks can be finished in a variety of ways to complement a home's exterior decor or other landscaping elements. By adding color, texture or pattern, you can make the deck a focal point while improving skid resistance. Options include stamped concrete, stenciling and exposed aggregate. See these concrete pool deck surface ideas.

2. Install a decorative concrete coping.
Decorative concrete copingTo further enhance a pool deck, install a decorative cast-concrete coping around the pool edge. You can make the coping from poured-in-place concrete or save time using  precast concrete copings. Forms for concrete copings are available in many different shapes and styles, from a bull-nose edge to faux rock. See more pool deck coping examples.

3. Provide built-in seating.
Pool deck seat wallConcrete seat walls and combination benches and planter boxes can add decorative interest while providing permanent poolside seating for homeowners and their guests. Get more tips for designing and building concrete seat walls.

4. Create a natural environment with concrete rockscapes.
Concrete rockscapeA big trend in pool design is creating a natural-looking atmosphere, complete with boulders and rock formations. Faux concrete rock features can be molded, textured, and colored to replicate the look and feel of real stone, plus they eliminate the inconvenience and expense of hauling hefty boulders. See this photo tour of faux rock installations.

5. Add concrete fountains and water features.
Pool with waterfallTurn a pool deck into a water park by installing architectural concrete
fountains or man-made waterfalls. These features not only add beauty and drama, they also muffle unwanted noise from nearby traffic and neighboring homes. See our water features photo gallery.
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