Pool deck resurfacing
A cracked, faded or scorching deck spoils a good pool. Resurfacing can make it cooler, safer and better-looking.
The concrete deck around a pool bakes in the Havasu sun, gets splashed with chemically treated water and shifts slightly as the ground expands and contracts. Over time, coatings wear off, cracks open and joints fail. Deck resurfacing applies a new coating or overlay over the existing concrete, after repairing what's underneath.
What are the deck resurfacing options?
- Cool-deck style coatings. Light-colored, textured acrylic or cementitious coatings designed to stay cooler underfoot than bare concrete. Very common in Arizona.
- Spray-knockdown overlays. A textured cement-polymer coating sprayed on and knocked down with a trowel. Slip-resistant and available in many colors.
- Stamped or stenciled overlays. A thicker overlay patterned to look like stone, tile or brick.
- Pavers or replacement. If the deck is badly cracked or uneven, replacing it may be better than coating it.
Why does deck color matter here?
With summer highs routinely near or above 110°F, a dark deck can get hot enough to make walking barefoot painful. Light colors reflect more sun and stay noticeably cooler. If you want a darker look, ask about coatings designed to reduce surface temperature, and see samples outdoors in full sun.
What repairs come first?
- Cracks are cleaned and filled so they don't telegraph through the new coating.
- Failed expansion joints between the deck and coping are cut out and resealed with a flexible sealant. A failed joint lets water get behind the coping and under the deck.
- Loose or flaking old coating is removed.
- Low spots that hold water are addressed so the deck drains.
How long does a deck coating last?
It varies with the product, traffic, sun exposure and how well the surface was prepped. Most coatings need periodic resealing to keep color and texture. Ask the contractor for the expected maintenance schedule and warranty in writing.
Licensing for deck work
Arizona's residential pool service and repair license (R-6) excludes complete replacement of decks. Check that the company's ROC license classification covers the deck work you're hiring for.
What affects the cost?
- Square footage.
- Coating type. Stamped overlays cost more than spray-knockdown or cool-deck coatings.
- Crack and joint repair.
- Removal of old coatings.
Prices come from the pool contractor after they've looked at the pool and talked through finish options. We don't quote prices ourselves, and a phone estimate is only a starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
What is cool deck?
A term for light, textured deck coatings designed to stay cooler underfoot than bare concrete. Several brands and types exist.
Can you coat over a cracked pool deck?
Small cracks can be repaired and coated. Large, shifting or uneven cracks may come back through, and replacement may be better.
Related services
- Pool resurfacing and replastering
- Pebble and quartz finishes
- Pool tile and calcium removal
- Pool leak detection and repair
More background: Lake Havasu pool owner's guide.
Rough, stained or chalky pool finish?
Call now and a local pool contractor will come look and quote a new surface.