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SUNDEK of Austin in Austin, TX

Cool deck coatings are a good choice around pools for the following reasons:

  • They transform the look of your pool
  • They keep the surface cool in summer heat
  • They aren't slippery when wet
  • They come in a variety of colors

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WHAT IS THE COOLEST POOL DECK SURFACE?

There are decorative toppings for concrete that can be used to significantly lower surface temperatures. These cool deck coatings from SUNDEK are a good example. Compared to darker-colored brick and tile pool decks, which can become extremely hot to the touch after baking in the sun, cool deck concrete reflects solar radiation and is more comfortable on bare feet.

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Question:

We need a product to resurface a concrete pool deck in a community complex in Las Vegas. The summer heat is unbearable, and the concrete gets so hot you can't walk on it. I have heard about a product that tays cool, but pool stores tell me it's really just a paint. Can you recommend a product for our needs?

Answer:

Those pool stores are wrong. Cool deck coatings are not a concrete pool deck paint. They are spray-applied overlays available in light colors that will help to reflect the heat. They also have an "orange peel" texture that provides air pockets to help keep the surface cooler underfoot. The Las Vegas summer sun will heat up any surface, but a spray texture overlay in a light color will help quite a bit. These products have been standard coatings for pool decks in the sunbelt regions of the U.S. for decades. (See Resurfacing Existing Concrete with Pool Deck Coatings.)

SUNDEK of Houston in Houston, TX

HOW DO I MAKE MY POOL DECK NOT SLIPPERY?

Because good traction is especially important on pool deck surfaces, slip resistance is a high priority. Many pool deck materials can become slippery when wet, especially tile, but there are several ways to improve the surface traction.

Cool decking is textured to provide good traction, while still being comfortable for bare feet. In addition to the use of a textured overlay, you can mix a clear plastic grit into the sealer before it's applied. (See Making Concrete Slip Resistant)