Guide on How to Epoxy Paint a Pool Deck

Epoxy Paint a Pool Deck

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every year there are approximately 155,000 reported injuries in and around swimming pools, many as a result of slip and fall injuries.

A plain concrete pool deck is not attractive and can be hazardous. The concrete bakes in the hot sun and can burn bare feet. Moreover, concrete is a slippery surface when wet since it is smooth. Epoxy, on the other hand, gives a stunning appearance. Furthermore, it also helps to protect from any potential damage.

Our article walks you through everything you need to know about how to epoxy paint a pool deck by covering the following main topics:

• Can You Epoxy Paint a Pool Deck?
• Is Epoxy Good for Pool Decks?
• What Is a Pool Deck Coating?
• How Do I Seal a Concrete Pool Deck?
• Can I Paint My Concrete Pool Deck?
• What Kind of Paint Do You Use on Pool Decks?
• Can You Resurface a Concrete Pool Deck?
• Pool Deck Resurfacing Materials
• Conclusion

Can You Epoxy Paint a Pool Deck?

Yes! Experts suggest that you epoxy a pool deck in part for its high-quality appearance. Apart from that, it also helps to protect against any future damage and rough patches. They also contain anti-slip coatings that are essential around swimming pools.

Is an Epoxy Floor Waterproof?

Yes! But not all floors are waterproof. The coatings used on pool decks are designed for concrete pool decks. They are a mixture of resin and ground stone or acrylic fortified. With the added additives, the floor is also slip-resistant when wet.

How Long Does the Epoxy Coating Last?

Epoxy coatings can last as long as 10 – 15 years. There have been cases where the coating has lasted for 25 years, too. For a long-lasting coating, you need proper maintenance and regular cleaning. However, experts suggest reapplying the coating every ten years.

Is Epoxy Good for Pool Decks?

Epoxy is one of the best options for pool deck resurfacing. They form a hard, water-resistant, and chemical-resistant finish that lasts for years. You can use it on various pool surfaces such as concrete and fiberglass. Being a solvent-based pool paint, it creates a unified and finished surface. On the downside, the process is long and can take as long as one week for painting and curing. And the curing time is two weeks for indoor pools, not to mention the prep work.

Here are some benefits to help you decide for yourself.

• Creates a much smoother surface than aggregate or plaster
• Fills all the minor cracks and defects on the surface
• Prevents damage to the pool’s surface
• Help resists the growth of algae
• It is available in many colors

How Much Does it Cost to Epoxy Paint a Pool Deck?

The cost to paint a swimming pool depends on the size of the pool and the materials needed. Let’s consider a pool measuring 12×24. You would require 8 gallons in all. And epoxy comes in a 2-gallon kit; hence you will require four kits. With the paint priced at $270, the raw materials alone amount to $1000. The national average for a painting service is $500 in labor costs. The labor costs may vary depending on the location.

At any cost, you are looking at a minimum of $1,500 for the entire process.

What Is a Pool Deck Coating?

Pool deck coating is a liquid or semi-liquid applied to the existing concrete. Hence, creating a new surface. They come in different colors, textures, and patterns, giving them a stunning appearance. They cover the flaws and imperfections in the concrete surface. Furthermore, they also extend the life of the pool deck surface.

What Is the Best Coating for a Pool Deck?

Pool deck coatings can improve the quality of your pool deck and give it a new look. However, there are quite a lot of products in the market which can cause confusion. For those looking out for the best coating, here are the top players.

• Kool Deck is a specialized coating often called cool deck coatings. It is a revolutionary product that repairs, seals, and cools the pool surface. They reduce the surface temperature in summer and prevent heat build-up.
• INSL-X Step Acrylic Anti-Slip Coating is generally used on concrete surfaces. It is durable with a skid-resistant finish and good color retention. In addition, acrylic coatings are pretty durable, long-lasting, and fade-resistant.
• TotalTread Non-Skid Deck Paint is a marine-grade deck paint with an anti-slip traction coating. It has a rubberized texture which makes it durable. Also, you can use it on various surfaces like boats, wood, aluminum, fiberglass, and metals.

How Do I Seal a Concrete Pool Deck?

A good concrete sealer can help to protect your new resurfaced deck and increase its durability. It also helps to rejuvenate existing surfaces. A good sealer is:

• UV resistant
• Protect from harmful pool chemicals
• Improve the appearance

Once applied, they can last 5 – 10 years, depending on the material and foot traffic. Here’s how you can seal your concrete pool deck.

• Clean the entire surface removing all debris, dust, and dirt. Pressure washing can does a more thorough cleaning than hand washing.
• Pour a small amount of concrete sealer on the pool deck. Then, use a roller to smooth it over the pool deck area in a thin layer.
• Ensure that you feather the overlaps such that you avoid odd stripes. Let it dry for 24-48 hours or as mentioned in the product.

Can I Paint My Concrete Pool Deck?

Painting is rarely the best option for a concrete pool deck resurfacing unless it is a coating. It may also be a specialized material suitable for a pool deck. For example, Natural stone, acrylic, or stamped concrete.

Even if you paint, for it to work, you need a surface that is in great condition and not damaged in any way. And that is rarely the case. Apart from that, acrylic and kool deck surfaces should not be painted.

What Is the Best Paint for a Concrete Pool Deck?

Kilz Over Armor chocolate brown pool deck paint is currently the best option available for concrete pool decks. It is an innovative, 100% acrylic resin formula that provides a slip-resistant finish. It bonds with the cracks, hides imperfections giving it a uniform look.

What Kind of Paint Do You Use on Pool Decks?

Epoxy pool paints are the best concrete coating you can use on pool decks. They extend the life of the deck in addition to giving it a sharp look. Furthermore, you can also use them on:

• Concrete
• Fiberglass
• Gunite
• Plaster pools

They are durable and can last for at least seven years. On the downside, you can only use them on bare surfaces or paints of the same kind. Moreover, they are time-consuming and can take a whole week to cure. But the durability makes the lengthy process worth the effort.

What Is the Best Way to Paint a Pool Deck?

Painting a pool deck can help you extend the life of your deck as long as you use suitable materials. Additionally, the prep work also plays an integral part in durability. Here’s how you can paint a pool deck:

• Remove dirt, debris, leaves, and dust from the pool deck. Use a degreasing cleanser and a scrub to wash any stains and spots. Then, rinse it with a pressure washer and let it dry.
• Use a pump sprayer to spray a two-part epoxy concrete sealer on the entire surface. First, ensure that you mix according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, let it dry as per the instructions.
• Mix the concrete paint and nonskid additive on a paint tray. Use a roller to paint it on the surface. Prevent stepping on the painted pool area. Start from the far end and then move forwards.
• Let it dry for 24 hours before applying a second coat.

Can You Resurface a Concrete Pool Deck?

Concrete pool deck resurfacing can help revive an old deck and gives it a new life. The process helps repair damaged concrete surfaces adding strength. Next, the contractor adds an overlay product containing sand, cement, and polymer resins mixed with additives.

How Much Does it Cost to Resurface a Concrete Pool Deck?

Resurfacing a pool deck is the cheaper alternative to replacing the entire structure. A basic resurfacing costs $3-$5 per square foot. However, the price tends to increase as you add customizations and additives.

While you can do the resurfacing yourself, it is better to hire a professional contractor. Their years of experience help navigate the mistakes and as per your expectations.

Pool Deck Resurfacing Materials

A resurfaced pool deck is easy to maintain than other surfaces. It creates a non-penetrating barrier protecting the concrete underneath. Furthermore, bare feet are standard in and around pools. Hence, the material you choose should not be slippery when wet. It should also feel pleasant to walk on and not absorb excess heat. Keeping those in mind, here are the common pool deck resurfacing materials.

Your contractor can help you choose the right resurfacing material for your pool.

Stamped Concrete Overlay

Stamped concrete overlay is one of the most expensive resurfacing products. However, it can turn to be cost-effective in the long run. They are an easy way to fix a damaged concrete surface. Moreover, it also adds a decorative look similar to that of a brick, natural stone, or wood.

Epoxy Pebble Finish

Epoxy coatings create a moisture barrier for the concrete underneath. Thus, the moisture stays on top without soaking through. The pebble finish has the decorative pebbles mixed within, creating an interesting texture. Moreover, exciting color combinations are also possible. On the flip side, the pebbles can pop out due to wear and tear.

Concrete Pool Deck Paint

Pool deck paints are one of the cheapest options out there. However, contrary to that of stamped concrete, it has to be reapplied every year. As a result, it is high in maintenance and can be expensive over the long term.

Rubber Coating Systems

Rubber coating systems are often seen in children’s playgrounds. They are soft and can be applied over the existing concrete. On the flip side, they do not have as many patterns or colors as the other options.

Spray Texture Overlay

Spray texture overlay is one of the most popular options of all. They have a subtle texture, safer for use in barefoot areas. Otherwise called a cool deck, it can also be customized with custom colors, aggregate effects, and scorelines.

Conclusion

Epoxy is a great solution to protect your pool deck, especially if it is needs repairing. It is reliable, durable, and a cost-effective way to give your concrete deck a new look. In addition, it costs a fraction of what it takes to replace a deck.

Epoxy also fills in the cracks and crevices, creating a smooth finish. It is also easy to clean and doesn’t fade from UV rays and harmful chemicals. What’s more? It also comes in different textures and colors. From natural colors like brown and gray to bold colors like blue, black, and white, your options are limitless.

Hiring a contractor gets you a stunning pool deck area well prepared, applied, and sealed against all elements.