Concrete a great choice for Pool Decks
The pool surround or deck is often one of the primary features of your pool, and one of the first things visitors see when they come upon a pool. When the pool deck is attractive and in good shape, visitors and homeowners are impressed. When a pool deck is in disrepair, other thoughts come to mind. One of the most popular types of material for an in-ground pool deck used today is concrete. Here are some reasons why:
For years, concrete has been one of the most popular choices for pool surrounds. Concrete as a surfacing material is long lasting and very sturdy, even with pool chemicals, furniture, and constant sunlight. When concrete pool surrounds are compared in cost to other types of decking, the cost difference can be substantial. Concrete is very affordable, and this is a major reason it is so often used. In addition, when professional pool contractors are employed concrete is fast and fairly easy to apply to the site.
In the past, one of the disadvantages to a concrete finish was that it could be rather bland and boring to look at. It is true that a smooth, properly installed concrete pad has clean and sharp lines, and lends to a pool’s appeal, but, still, concrete was concrete.
Today, however, all has changed. Owners can now add color, texture, and pizzazz to their concrete finish. This is done through the addition of colors during the mixing process or to the surface after the concrete has been placed. The integral colors are added while the concrete is wet and when mixes provide a some what consistent color throughout.
There are other color preparations that can be applied to the surface of the concrete to give it a new, fresh look as well, including concrete dyes, stains and acrylics.
Concrete pool decks can also be given a totally unique look by employing different masking techniques. During this process, colors can be intermixed in virtually unlimited numbers of patterns and designs. This could create a totally custom, high-end look.
Concrete stamping is yet another way to brighten up the pool surround. When the wet concrete is setting up, special rubber stamping tools are used to imprint the surface with various types of rock, stone and brick patterns. These patterns can range from faux cobblestones to tiles to antique slate. This process is performed by trained professionals and the results can be amazing and very realistic. Multiple colors are added during the stamping process, giving the drive a true depth, realistic textured and stunning appearance.
Overall concrete pool decks are often an excellent choice for future pool owners who want a very stable deck at an affordable price. As you might imagine, this is not the type of project that most homeowners should undertake.
