Maintaining Concrete Pool Decking
Most people know the importance of maintaining their garage floors, driveways, and sidewalks, but concrete decking is just as important, if not more important, to maintain. Not only do you have a large investment in your concrete decking, but a lack of proper maintenance can also lead to safety concerns.
Here are some tips on ways to maintain your concrete decking for years of future use and aesthetics.
Keep Your Concrete Deck Clean
This seems obvious, but damp concrete can be a breeding ground for algae which can make the surface very slick. Also, wet leaves and other yard debris can stain decking, causing nasty spotting. The best way to clean your decking is pressure washing. You can purchase or rent a pressure washer from most home improvement stores. If you have a pool, just make this a part of your weekly maintenance. If you do not have a pool, add this to your list of outdoor weekly chores, like mowing the lawn.
Repair Small Cracks
Even if properly sealed, small cracks in concrete are bound to appear with the settling of the materials beneath. These small cracks are also prone to expansion from freezing. Small cracks can easily be repaired on your own without calling on a professional contractor. Check with your local home improvement professional to find the product right for your needs. Not a DIYer? Contact your local concrete pros. or contact Pools of Fun, and we can refer you to one of our trusted professionals.
Seal Your Concrete
Sealing your concrete has many benefits. It helps to prevent scaling, staining and cracking. Spalling, which is surface pitting or scaling, is accelerated with the freeze/thaw cycle. When this happens, moisture trapped within the concrete will freeze and expand, breaking down the walls of the concrete surface pores. This problem grows exponentially with each changing season. We recommend sealing your concrete a minimum of every 3 years. Not only will this help maintain the look of your decking, but it will also increase the lifespan of your investment.
A little common sense goes a long way. Be mindful to wash away any chemicals spilled on your concrete immediately. Avoid using ice melt and salt products, as these weaken the concrete surface. A little bit of care will go a long way to enjoying the beauty and safety of your concrete decking.