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Pool decks
Pool Decks in Phoenix: Cooler, Safer Surfaces
· 2 min read · Deck Builders LLC
A pool deck here has a harder job than anywhere else in the country. It has to be walkable barefoot in July, grippy when wet, and able to take years of sun and pool chemicals.
Why pool decks are different here
Sun fades color and breaks down sealers. Heat makes every material expand and contract. Shifting soil cracks rigid surfaces. A west-facing deck takes the worst of the afternoon. All of that has to be part of the design.
What homeowners ask for
- A cooler surface: The first request, nearly every time.
- Grip: Wet feet on a slick surface is an accident waiting to happen.
- Durability: Resistance to fading, cracking and staining.
- A better look: The pool deck ties the whole yard together.
Sometimes that means resurfacing a sound slab. Sometimes the old deck has to come out because it was never built properly.
Surfaces that suit the climate
- Travertine pavers: Stay cooler than concrete, have natural grip and look excellent. A premium option.
- Cool-deck coatings: A textured acrylic layer over existing concrete that reduces surface heat. Popular and comparatively affordable.
- Concrete pavers: Easy to repair, with many colors and patterns.
- Stamped concrete: The look of stone at a moderate price. It needs sealing and a UV-stable color.
- Composite decking: Best for raised sections and decks beside the pool rather than at the water's edge. Choose a light color.
Start with the basics
Before choosing a finish, check the slope, the drainage and the condition of what is underneath. A beautiful surface over a slab that holds water will not stay beautiful.
