Decorative Concrete Options For Pool Decks

Decorative concrete systems offers ways of enhancing the look of the dull gray concrete walls, floors, driveways, patios, pool decks, etc. giving it a more aesthetic look. This can be achieved by the use of specific materials or systems that may be applied during the pouring process or even after the concrete is cured.

All Concrete Resurfacing pride themselves as the concrete restoration leader in Louisville for more than two decades now. They have overseen and done different decorative concrete for both residential homes and commercial establishments’ patios, driveways, sidewalks and other concrete surfaces, including pool decks.

When it comes to pool decks, concrete with its durability and versatility is the top preference. With the different decorative concrete options available, pool decks can now be designed or changed (if there is already an existing one) easily based on what the owner wants and envisions, the setting, the budget, people traffic, care and upkeep and lifestyle – for entertainment, keep cool, to relax, exercise or create a mini resort complete with lighting, sound systems, spas, waterfalls and fountains. Among these are:

Stamped Concrete Pool Decks

Stamped concrete pool decks are more economical than the materials it mimics – brick, slate or flagstone - to blend with the landscape or hardscaping elements by adding earth-tone color to compliment the backyard environment.

Stenciled Concrete Pool Decks

Similar to stamped concrete, stenciled concrete pool decks is another economical way to achieve a look of more expensive material at a much cheaper cost. Stenciling makes use of paper stencils to outline brick, stone, slate or tile patterns into fresh concrete. This can be achieved by masking off the concrete surface and coloring the fields. Upon removal of the stencil, a realistic-looking “grout or mortar” joints are left on the concrete.

Exposed Aggregate Pool Decks

This makes use of mixing a concrete –based blend with differently shaped and colored pebbles and stones which rise to the surface after the concrete is applied. Adding one eighth polished stones, instead of raw stone in the mix makes possible for comfortable walking on barefoot. The pebble-lie finish is highly slip resistant. For more impressive effect, one can combine and/or complement colors and textures using stones in different or contrasting colors or combining areas of smooth and exposed aggregate finishes. Once the material hardens, it can be buffed for more intense colored surface.

Colored Concrete Pool Decks.

Chemical stains, integral color and dry-shake hardeners are the three most common ways for coloring concrete. Choosing one or a combination of the three can achieve more dramatic results to complement one’s home façade, interior (if the pool deck will serve like an extension of the living room area) or landscape.

In choosing colors though, it would be wise to keep in mind that darker colors absorb more heat from the sun and could make the surface hot and uncomfortable during hot days. Opting for lighter or pastel colors would be a better choice because it reflects light and thus absorbs less heat.

Thinking up of ideas for pool decks is not hard. But because most of these pool decks serve like an extension of the main house, similar to a patio, one should take into account that the exterior look of the deck should at least complement with the rest of the house. An added “must” feature of a pool deck is its non-slip requirement to prevent accidents, sun reflectivity and orientation. With all these playing in one’s mind, one can start planning for the designs of a concrete pool deck which are as limitless as one’s imagination.

Article Source: http://www.compensationsecrets.co.uk/