Pro tip
Acute flaking, chipping, or peeling may indicate a surface that is not suitable for painting in its current state. In these cases, surface preparation and priming are extremely important for deck painting success.
Paint the concrete surface
Deck paints should be stirred and/or shaken thoroughly before applying. Once mixed, professionals can apply the deck paint using a roller or a spray gun. (Most pool professionals use a low-pressure hopper spray gun). It is important to avoid applying excessively heavy paint films (greater than 1.5 mm [60 mil]) as this will lead to insufficient through-drying and can cause mud cracking of the paint as well as soft paint films. Like applying primer, heat, weather, and time of day should also be taken into consideration when painting. When working in cooler temperatures, pool professionals should make sure the air and surface temperatures will remain at or above 4 C (40 F) for at least eight hours after application.
After the first coat of deck paint is applied and has dried, a second coat should be applied to ensure the best results.
Pro tip
Pool professionals should wear rubber gloves and protective eyewear when handling chemicals and paints. All safety precautions on power equipment being used should always be followed.
Conclusion
Painting a pool deck is one of the most economical ways to keep it looking nice and performing well. Water-based deck paints can upgrade and renovate many types of surfaces—from concrete to previously painted decks. Proper planning, surface preparation, and using best practices from the field will help ensure the best results. Deck renovations using specialty coating products will provide safer non-skid deck surfaces that are cooler for swimmer’s feet while also enhancing the beauty of both residential and commercial pools.
Tom Maellaro is the vice-president of marketing for Tuff Coat in Rockaway, N.J. Maellaro has been in the coatings industry for more than 15 years. As an industry veteran, he has vast product knowledge, extensive industry experience, and is the go-to person for those seeking expertise in aquatic coatings. He can be reached via email at tmaellaro@mrtproducts.com.
