For a long time, concrete has been utilized as a material for pool decking, and even today, it remains one of the most popular options on the market. Although trends come and go, concrete has managed to retain a solid following, and it’ not hard to see why. Listed below are some of the reasons why concrete pool decking is so popular, and perhaps why you too should invest in it.
Concrete is Cheap
Concrete decking is one of the cheapest options on the market. This definitely helps to contribute to its popularity and helps to make pool decks more affordable for everyone looking to install a new pool or renovate an existing one.
Not only is concrete cheap to buy, but it’s also cheap to maintain. Concrete requires very little upkeep, and what little maintenance it does need is very infrequent. You should reseal your concrete decking approximately once every three years, and this helps to retain the color, as well as strengthen the material. Concrete pool decks may start to fade before the three-year mark, but this is purely an aesthetic change and does not necessarily indicate structural damage.
Concrete is Relatively Easy to Obtain
It may sound unlikely to most people, but concrete is one of the most eco-friendly options when it comes to decking for your pool. Concrete is composed of limestone, which is incredibly abundant, so you are not reducing already-depleted resources. Because it’s so readily available everywhere, it’s most likely available from somewhere very close to you. This means that there’s no need to transport it cross country, cutting down on vehicle emissions. Both of these factors also help to keep the price down, which is an added bonus.
It’s also a versatile choice
Perhaps one of the most surprising things about concrete decking is that it can provide a diverse range of styles and colors. Your deck doesn’t need to be a standard gray color – it can be painted or stained, and it can even be textured to add more dimension and to imitate other materials. Textured concrete is, in fact, recommended because it helps to reduce the risk of slipping when it’s wet.
Many people choose to get their concrete stamped. This refers to the process of using a patterned stamp to add texture to the deck. Often this is done to resemble stone, brick, or tile, but at a fraction of the price of these actual materials. It’s an excellent opportunity to add a touch of class to your outdoor living space and your pool so that you can enjoy your time outside more.
Concrete can be used to add value to your outdoor living space. It can be challenging to imagine concrete being anything except lifeless and dull, but it really can transform your pool and garden area. Pools can be a significant investment, and the surrounding deck can create the perfect finishing touch to elevate your homes’ worth. Although any well-made pool deck can have this effect, there is something about the nature of concrete that appears to offer the biggest transformations.
Light concrete doesn’t get as hot on summer days as other deck materials
One of the worst things about trying to get into a pool on a sweltering sunny day is burning your feet on the deck as you try and jump in. Concrete will still retain some heat, but it will be far less uncomfortable than brick or pavers. This is a huge factor in concrete popularity in very hot regions such as Florida and California.
There are still downsides to using concrete for your pool deck
Despite the fact that concrete is such a popular decking material, there are still some significant cons that you should be aware of. Concrete does not work for everyone, and just like with any major purchase or design choice, you should be informed about the bad, not just the good. Here are some of the negative aspects of concrete decking that you should also be aware of, despite its popularity:
Concrete is not a good option for colder weather
The only places where concrete pool decking is not popular are areas that experience periods of intense cold. When concrete freezes and then thaws, over and over, this can harm the integrity of the concrete, and can significantly increase the risk of cracking.
If this sounds like a problem that you might experience in your region, do your research and talk to a local professional. They will be better equipped to tell you more about the effects of the weather on concrete where you live, and if it truly is a viable option for you.
Cracks in concrete are inevitable
Over time, your concrete pool deck will crack. Designers and installers can do their best to control these cracks, by intentionally inserting control joints into your deck, which can deepen over time, instead of causing new cracks elsewhere on your deck design. This precaution is not always foolproof, and you might end up with significant cracks elsewhere.
Concrete can be slippery when wet
Concrete that has been sealed with acrylic or silicone might look great, but it can easily become a safety hazard when wet. These types of sealants are smooth and increase the likelihood of someone falling over and hurting themselves. Make sure that if you go for a concrete deck, that it still has some type of textured surface. Unsealed concrete provides the best grip, and you might feel as though you are tossing up between safety (an unsealed deck) or aesthetics and longevity (a sealed deck).
Always remember that popularity should not be your only deciding factor
Don’t opt for concrete pool decking just because you know that it’s a popular choice. There are pros and cons for each type of decking material, and just because so many others choose concrete, don’t feel as though you have to as well. Do your research, and make an informed choice that is right for you. The best option is to speak with your local pool builder about what options are best for your application.