Create a beautiful, safe pool surround that stays cool underfoot and handles water, chlorine, and heavy use.
Your pool deck needs to survive constant exposure to water, pool chemicals, bare feet, and outdoor furniture. It has to stay safe when wet, resist fading from sun exposure, and handle freeze-thaw cycles if you live in Maine. Concrete meets all these demands better than wood, composite, or pavers when properly designed and finished for pool use.
Wood decking around pools deteriorates quickly from constant moisture and chemical exposure. It becomes slippery when wet, splinters bare feet, and requires annual maintenance. Composite decking gets dangerously hot in direct sun, making it uncomfortable to walk on barefoot. Individual pavers can shift and create trip hazards, and weeds grow in the joints no matter how well you install them.
Concrete pool decks create one continuous surface that stays level and weed-free. The right finish provides excellent traction even when soaking wet. Light colored concrete reflects heat rather than absorbing it, so the surface stays cooler than dark materials. Sealing protects concrete from chlorine and other pool chemicals. You can customize the appearance with colors, textures, and patterns to create the exact look you want. A properly installed concrete pool deck lasts 25 to 30 years with minimal upkeep.
Pool decks need both function and style. Safety comes first, but you also want a deck that looks great and enhances your backyard. We offer numerous finish options that balance aesthetics with practical performance around water.
A broomed or brushed finish creates texture that provides excellent slip resistance when wet. This is the most cost-effective option and performs extremely well for safety. The texture can be light or more pronounced depending on your preference. Light textures feel smooth underfoot but still provide grip. Heavier textures maximize traction but may feel rougher on bare feet. We help you choose the right balance for your needs. These finishes work especially well with lighter colored concrete that stays cool.
Stamped concrete creates the look of natural stone, slate, or tile at a fraction of the cost. Popular patterns for pool decks include flagstone, travertine, and slate textures. The stamping process creates natural-looking texture that also provides traction. Colors can mimic natural stone in earth tones, or you can choose lighter colors to keep the surface cooler. Stamped decks give you upscale appearance without the maintenance headaches of actual stone pavers. The continuous surface means no weeds, no shifting, and no individual pieces to replace.
Exposed aggregate reveals decorative stones embedded in the concrete surface. This creates natural beauty and excellent texture for traction. The stones provide a slightly rough surface that feels pleasant underfoot while preventing slips. Aggregate finishes stay cool because the stones do not absorb as much heat as smooth concrete. You can choose aggregate colors that complement your pool and landscaping. This finish is extremely durable and hides minor surface imperfections well.
Light colored concrete works best for pool decks because it stays significantly cooler than dark surfaces. Whites, light grays, beiges, and tans reflect sun rather than absorbing heat. Color can be integral to the concrete or applied as stain for varied tones. After installation, we apply sealer that protects against water, chemicals, and staining. The sealer also enhances colors and can provide satin or matte finish. Resealing every 2 to 3 years maintains protection and appearance.
We can also coordinate your pool deck with other concrete work like patio extensions or walkways connecting different areas of your backyard.
Pool deck installation requires special attention to drainage, expansion joints, and surface finishing. We follow industry best practices specific to pool surrounds to ensure your deck performs safely and lasts for decades.
We start by measuring the pool perimeter and planning deck width. Most pool decks extend at least 4 to 6 feet from the pool edge to provide adequate walking space and room for furniture. Irregular pool shapes get custom layouts that follow the curves. We identify where gates, equipment, and other features need accommodation. Drainage planning ensures water flows away from the pool and house rather than toward them. We mark everything with stakes and string so you can visualize the final deck before we start excavation.
Proper base prevents settling and provides drainage path for water. We excavate to remove topsoil, grade the area with slight slope away from the pool, and install compacted gravel base. The deck should slope about a quarter inch per foot for drainage. Around the pool coping, we take extra care to ensure proper transitions. Some pool decks benefit from drainage channels or systems to handle large amounts of splash water. All this work happens before any concrete arrives.
We pour concrete in sections with expansion joints between to allow for temperature movement. The concrete around pools needs proper air entrainment to survive freeze-thaw cycles. After placing and leveling, we apply your chosen finish while the concrete is at optimal consistency. Timing is critical for decorative finishes. Too early and the pattern will not hold. Too late and the concrete has set. Our experience ensures we apply finishes at exactly the right moment for best results. Control joints get cut or formed while concrete is still workable.
Concrete cures for several days before you can use the deck. We protect the fresh concrete from rapid drying and temperature extremes during this period. After full cure, we clean the surface thoroughly and apply sealer. The sealer is critical for pool decks since it protects against chlorine, salt, and water penetration. It also makes the surface easier to clean. With proper sealing and resealing on schedule, your pool deck will maintain its beauty and performance for many years.
Ready to upgrade your pool area with a new concrete deck? Contact us for a consultation where we will discuss your design preferences and provide a detailed quote.
