A concrete pool deck expands your living space and creates the ultimate backyard oasis for relaxing or entertaining. But like any surface exposed to the elements, pool decks require proper care and maintenance to stay looking pristine.
Practicing routine deck care preserves the appearance, safety, and integrity of your concrete. Read on for essential maintenance tips to care for your concrete pool surround.
Control Moisture Exposure
Excessive moisture from splashing pool water or rain can stain and degrade concrete over time. Routinely sweep water off the deck surface after swim sessions or storms.
Check for pooling water in low spots and fill cracks prone to puddling. Using a concrete pool deck coating in Florida provides extra protection.
Clean Regularly
Make quick cleaning a part of your pool maintenance routine. Clear leaf litter, dirt, and debris regularly to prevent buildup in cracks or texture.
Sweep gently with a stiff broom. For deeper cleaning, use pH-neutral cleaners formulated for concrete and a pressure washer on low settings to lift residue.
Treat Stains Promptly
Don’t allow stains from chemical or organic material to set. Identify and treat new stains right away using cleaners made for concrete.
For stubborn stains, consult a professional about stronger poultice treatments or stain removal techniques like grinding or sandblasting if needed.
Re-Seal Annually
Re-apply quality concrete sealers every year or two to shield against damage from moisture, chemicals, and everyday use. Penetrating sealers soak in to reinforce from within while topical coatings form a protective barrier. Re-sealing maintains appearance and prevents costly repairs.
Check For Cracks
Inspect for cracks frequently as concrete inevitably shrinks and shifts over the years. Seal minor hairline cracks with caulk or flexible fillers to keep water out and prevent further damage from freeze-thaw cycles. Repair larger cracks via injection kits or call a concrete contractor.
Watch For Settling
Over time, pool decks can settle unevenly creating trip hazards and drainage issues. Signs include visible sloping and water pooling in certain areas. Re-leveling may require grinding down high spots, filling voids, or slab jacking to lift depressed sections.
Practice Snow Removal Carefully
Use a plastic shovel and sweep side-to-side to clear snow. Avoid scraping motions that risk gouging the surface. Calcium chloride and salt can damage concrete, so opt for safer ice melt products labeled “safe for concrete”. Avoid piled snow weighing down decking.
Keep Furniture In Good Repair
Inspect pool furniture and accessories placed on the concrete for worn or damaged legs that can scratch surfaces. Choose lightweight over heavy furniture when possible. Use furniture pads under the legs for protection. Promptly clean spills from furniture failure to avoid stains.
Provide Shade
Position shade elements like umbrellas, pergolas, and trees strategically around the pool area. Shading concrete from intense sunlight reduces heat saturation, fading issues, and expansion/contraction stress.
Maintain Proper Drainage
Ensure water flows away from the concrete surrounding the pool through proper grading. Settling or subpar drainage results in standing water that penetrates the deck over time. Re-grade low areas or install French drains to divert runoff as needed.
Consider Resurfacing
Eventually even well-cared-for concrete pool decks fall victim to the effects of moisture, chemicals, and UV exposure.
Once cracking, pitting, and staining become prevalent, resurfacing or installing a decorative overlay may be necessary to restore its appearance and integrity.
To Wrap Up
While durable, poolside concrete does require attentive care and maintenance to maximize longevity while keeping its attractive look.
By committing to routine cleaning, prompt stain treatment, protective sealing, and crack repair, you can keep your backyard concrete pool deck in tip-top shape for years of worry-free enjoyment.
Check with providers about concrete pool deck coatings in Florida for added protection against the elements.
