Maintaining Your Pool Deck and Your Home

A backyard pool is a true luxury to enjoy on hot summer afternoons, but pools can require significant upkeep. Sun, precipitation, and seasonal fluctuations in temperature and humidity all cause wear and tear on your pool deck. Luckily, proactive home pool maintenance is something most homeowners can manage without the help of a professional. If you know how to open your pool for the season, you likely have the skills required to keep your pool in great shape for years to come.

Checking Your Pool Deck for Damage

Homeowners with pools should routinely check their pool decks for damage. If you have any wooden deck components, you should check for warping and signs of rot. Also, look for mildew and splintering. If the wood is still in good shape, you can extend its life with a stain or sealant. If the wood is rotting or is otherwise compromised, it will need to be replaced.

If you have a concrete pool deck, be vigilant about checking for cracks. Left unattended, a crack can expand and allow water to undermine the pool’s components or foundation, which can be costly to repair. If you notice any cracks in your concrete pool deck, you can use concrete filler or epoxy to patch them and avoid further damage. If you are worried about patched cracks being unsightly, it may be worth exploring pool deck resurfacing options. A thorough swimming pool deck resurfacing can be quite affordable and is much less costly than replacing a pool deck entirely.

How to Refinish Concrete Pool Deck Surfaces

A DIY pool deck coating is easier than you might think, but there are several steps involved. Following the process outlined below will ensure a beautiful and functional deck for many summer seasons.

•        Repair your pool deck. The first step in resurfacing your pool deck is making sure the surface is level and free of damage. Repair any cracks in the concrete with filler and grind down concrete if necessary.
•        Clean the deck surface. Use a pressure washer to clear any debris and mildew. Allow to dry thoroughly.
•        Prepare and apply deck coating. There are different coating options available. The cheapest way to resurface pool deck surfaces is usually by using a pool deck paint. There are also more specialized pool deck coatings. Whichever you choose, follow the product specifications to prepare and apply the product to the surface of your pool deck.
•        Decorate the deck surface. If desired, you can use different tools to apply patterns or textures to your pool deck. This is commonly performed with patterned stamps or molds. You can also use rakes, trowels, or other specialized tools. While optional, patterning your deck surface is a great way to add character to your home pool.
•        Apply a sealant to the finished surface. A good sealer is critical to extending the life of your pool deck. It also repels staining from dirt, water, and mildew and makes cleaning your deck significantly easier. Apply your sealant per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Maintaining Your Pool with a Home Warranty

As with most home structures and appliances, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Maintaining your pool and addressing small problems as they arise will save you expenses in the long run. A home warranty for pool components and structures can be a great help to this end.

Liberty Home Guard has a variety of affordable plans. Click below for a free quote, or contact a representative at (866) 699-4589 or [email protected].