A Guide to the Different Types of Pool Deck Sealer

Are you looking for the right sealant for your pool area? Click here for a guide to the different types of pool deck sealer to find out your options.

If you're among the 91 million Americans who like to go swimming, you might have a pool - or be thinking about getting one. But if you invest in a pool, you need to take care of it to avoid major repairs. Otherwise, you'll be spending thousands of dollars to repair cracked concrete or plumbing problems.



Part of your pool maintenance regimen should include using a sealant. Read on to find out your options for choosing a pool deck sealer!

Know What Type of Deck You Have

First, you'll need to understand what deck material you're working with. Many pool owners have a concrete deck that surrounds the pool. But if you have stone, wood, or other materials serving as a pool deck, plan on sealing those as well.

If any type of pool deck is not sealed properly, it can start to weather quickly or attract mold and mildew. In response, you'll want to use a sealer to create a non-porous surface that can resist absorbing water, chlorine, and other materials that can damage the deck. Moreover, if water gets into your deck, it can expand during the colder months and cause cracking. 

Plan on sealing your pool deck and reapplying the sealant every few years. As for what type of sealant you use, any of the options below can provide a strong coating. Ultimately, you want to choose a coating that resists the elements and enhances the look of your pool. 

Consider Acrylic Sealers

Acrylic sealers are among the most popular pool deck coatings. These coatings can be water-based or solvent-based. The water-based sealer option is more user-friendly to apply. It also is the more eco-friendly choice.

Any acrylic sealer is a good way to repel water from your pool deck. When water hits the surface of the deck, you should see water form beads, indicating that it is not being absorbed into the concrete.

You can expect most acrylic sealers to add a glossy quality to your deck. But don't let the gloss fool you, as the surface of your deck will not be slippery. You can add a non-slip agent to your acrylic sealer to ensure that you're providing a safe walking surface. 

Acrylic sealers can stave off grime, grease, and chlorides. This means that routine pool maintenance will be easier. Similarly, acrylic coatings can elongate, meaning that they will stretch with the concrete and help prevent the formation of cracks. 

Look into Epoxy Options

Epoxy resin coatings are another strong option for a pool deck coating. This durable coating is known to provide an attractive finish to a concrete pool deck. Best of all, it's among the cheaper options, as well. 

Epoxy is a solvent-based solution that can resist chemicals and other abrasive materials. Like acrylic coatings, epoxy coatings come in a variety of finishes and colors. These coatings also resist slipping and skidding. 

Much like acrylic coatings, epoxy coatings are easy to apply. A roller or sprayer and a few coats of epoxy will do the trick to create a solid surface that can stand up to wear and tear. Plan on recoating your pool deck every two or three years for the best pool care protocol. 

Factor in the Finishes

Aside from providing protection, pool deck sealers contribute to the aesthetics of your pool area. You can find sealers in high-gloss finishes for a shiny, almost reflective look. This is a great option for creating a modern or luxurious vibe around your outdoor recreation space.

Additionally, you can find satin or matte finishes for a softer, more natural sense of style. These are excellent choices that can show off the natural essence of the concrete. 

You also can tint sealers if you're hoping for some color variation. Going this route is easier than staining the concrete itself as a separate step. You'll still get the excellent water-repellant benefits of a sealer but with some extra aesthetic interest. 

Find a Sealer with UV Resistance

When you're looking at pool maintenance products, keep UV rays in mind. Pool decks without shaded areas can be magnets for heat from the sun. And if you're sitting on that pool deck or exiting the pool, the last thing you want to experience is an uncomfortably hot walking surface.

To deal with this common issue, aim to choose pool sealants that have UV resistance. These are products that will help make your deck feel cooler, even under the scorching sun. UV resistance also helps prevent fading, which can be important if you have a tinted sealant. 

Investigate Staining or Painting

Besides sealers, you can look into stains and paints. Just be aware that paints only offer cosmetic updates. In other words, they will not protect your pool deck from moisture or the sun. 

Paint can be a great way to introduce a splash of color. Or if you're selling a home, paint offers a quick facelift to give your property more curb appeal. But there's a chance that paint could flake off since it won't penetrate the surface of the concrete. 

For wood pool decks, a stain might be a good choice. Stains, by contrast, do penetrate the wood to create rich tones and a more resistant surface.

Select the Right Pool Deck Sealer

A good pool deck sealer can repel water and keep your deck looking its best. Consider acrylic or epoxy options for durable choices that can resist UV rays. And look into finishes and color tints to customize the style of your pool.

When you're ready to find the right pool products to make maintenance a breeze, Reach out to LayorCare Pool & Patio Protection and contact us for help!