Whether you bought a home with an old pool deck, or have not maintained your pool deck for a few years, a damaged deck requires your immediate attention. While you may decide to replace the deck as soon as you notice cracks and holes, a good pool deck contractor will always recommend repairing or resurfacing it over demolition.
Disadvantages of Demolishing Your Concrete Pool Deck
No matter how small or large your pool is, demolishing it and replacing it with a new one is a daunting task. While you may think replacement is the only option you have, the entire process may have a few drawbacks:
High Cost
The cost of demolishing the entire concrete pool deck can be considerably high. The entire process can cost you anywhere between $5,000 to $10,000 minimum. First, you will have to hire someone to remove the existing concrete slabs and take them away. Secondly, you will have to hire a contractor to check the surrounding soil and ensure it is properly compacted for the new deck. And finally, you will have to spend more on labor and new materials to get the new pool deck.
Downtime
Your pool plays an important role in entertaining and relaxing your family and friends, especially during the summer season. Nothing can get more frustrating than not having access to a good pool to beat the summer heat. If you choose to demolish your concrete pool and rebuild a new one, you will have to deal with the downtime, as the entire process can be time-consuming.
Yard Damage
Replacing a pool deck will require heavy-duty equipment to tear up the entire place and remove the damaged deck. This can also damage your yard considerably. As a result, once your new pool is in place, you will have to spend to repair your damaged yard as well. And till the new pool is ready, you will have to deal with the worn-out, disheveled yard.
Environmental Impact
The debris from the existing pool deck will end up in the local landfill. And most of the waste will not be biodegradable, affecting the environment negatively.
Considering the drawbacks, an alternative to pool deck demolition is pool deck resurfacing or repairing. The existing concrete will be cleaned and prepared for resurfacing. Any existing superficial damages will be repaired. Then, an overlay or concrete coating will be applied to the deck’s surface. You can choose any texture, pattern, or color. Once the application process is completed, you can start using the pool again after curing.
Benefits of Repairing and Restoring Your Concrete Pool Deck
Many homeowners opt for pool deck repair and restoration once they are made aware of the disadvantages of demolition. Not only is it easier, but also has other benefits:
Cost Effective
Repairing your concrete pool deck will cost you less than replacing the entire concrete slab. You will mostly only need a thin layer of material to give your pool deck a brand-new surface. As a result, the work will be less labor intensive, needing fewer people, saving you money.
Shorter Closing Time
Repairing your pool deck is a quicker process. It would involve only grinding the brittle surface, filling any holes and cracks, and topping the concrete slab with microtopping or a new coating. The entire process will also be less invasive and will take only a few days to be completed, giving you access to the pool sooner.
Lesser Impact on the Environment
Repairing your pool deck is a relatively more sustainable option. It can help reduce the carbon footprint produced when the concrete is manufactured. It also creates lesser wastage of concrete which would have otherwise filled up the local landfill.
How to Maintain a Restored Pool Deck?
Once your pool deck is ready, maintaining it regularly can help improve its life. Below are tips for maintaining your restored pool deck:
Monitor the Soil Levels
The soil around your pool deck should be level and correctly graded. This will divert all the water away from the concrete surface. As a result, excess water will not seep under the slab and cause erosion.
Clean the Deck Regularly
Chemicals and other dust and debris can be extremely corrosive to concrete surfaces. Cleaning your deck regularly will prevent dirt and debris buildup and ensure it doesn’t affect the deck.
Conduct Monthly or Yearly Inspections
Regular pool deck inspections can prevent long-term damage. Ensure you check the surrounding soil as well while conducting the inspections. Regular inspections can prevent issues like erosion.
A good pool deck will not only improve the aesthetic of your home but also allow you to unwind and have some fun family time. Hiring professional contractors like Capital Deck and Stair Waterproofing for regular inspection and pool deck maintenance can keep your pool deck looking like new for longer. They are a family-owned business that offers pool deck maintenance, repair, and resurfacing services.
