Whether you’re restoring an old pool deck or protecting a new surface, the right concrete coating can reduce heat, improve traction, and extend deck life. This guide highlights five top options for concrete coating around pools, explains who they’re best for, and what to watch out for. Ideal buyers include pool owners seeking heat reduction, long-lasting durability, easy DIY application, and slip-resistant finishes. The quick reference table below helps compare key points at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Heat Reduction / Durability | Application Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Encore Coatings Cool Pool Deck Coating | Heat-sensitive outdoor pool decks; DIY installers | Reduces heat buildup up to 38% | 200 sq ft bundle; tintable; suitable for resurfacing |
| COOL by the Bundle – Cool Pool Deck Coating | Comprehensive DIY cool deck project in one kit | Heat reduction >38% | Two-step system with cleaner and paint; per-bundle coverage up to 200 sq ft |
| Pool Patch Pool Deck Coating | Restore and seal old decks; cooler surface | Includes solar-reflective formulation | Roll or spray; durable and skid-resistant; 200 sq ft coverage |
| Epoxybond Pool Putty | Underwater or above-water crack and leak repair | N/A for heat; focus on sealing | 1-to-1 mix; cures underwater; versatile for repairs |
| Kelley Olympic/Patio Tones or Poxoprime II Primer | Concrete restorer and primer for pool decks | N/A for heat; prepares surface for coatings | One gallon/kit formats; needs color matching and proper mixing |
Encore Coatings Cool Pool Deck Coating – 200 sq. ft. Bundle Pack
Best for quick resurfacing with heat reduction. This bundle resurfaces existing pool deck surfaces to restore appearance while reducing heat buildup by up to 38%. It is tintable to a wide range of colors, allowing you to match or refresh your pool area. The kit is especially suitable for DIYers who want a single-package solution for a cooler, more attractive deck. A potential limitation is that total coverage depends on the surface condition, so plan for more coats if the surface is severely worn.
COOL by the Bundle – Cool Pool Deck Coating, TripleCrown, SealBack
Designed as a complete no-heat DIY kit. Best for builders who want a two-step system: a cleaner/etcher to prep concrete surfaces and a color-ready cool deck coating. The kit aims to cover up to 200 sq ft per two-coat application, with additional cool paint sold separately. Choose this if you want a guided, all-in-one approach from surface prep to final color. A caveat is that total coverage varies with surface condition and porosity.
Pool Patch Pool Deck Paint Coating 2 Gallon
Best for reducing surface temperatures on sunny decks while adding durability. This coating emphasizes a cooler surface through a solar-reflective acrylic formulation and provides skid resistance for safer pool areas. It’s suitable for restoring old decks and sealing them against future wear. A limitation is that exact performance can depend on climate and surface texture; ensure proper cleaning prior to application.
Epoxybond Pool Putty 2-Part Set
Best for fixing leaks and cracks without draining the pool. Epoxybond Pool Putty cures underwater and can be applied to both underwater and above-water areas. It’s a straightforward 1:1 mix that offers a durable seal where leaks or cracks occur. The main caution is that it addresses repairs rather than providing a full deck coating, so use this in combination with a surface coating for best long-term results.
Kelley Technical Coatings Olympic Patio Tones
Best for concrete restorer and color-ready deck work. This option includes 1 gallon with coverage estimates of roughly 90–125 square feet per gallon, suitable for smaller touch-ups or color restoration. As color accuracy can vary on digital displays, verify your color choice with official color cards before purchase. This product is ideal when you want to refresh a specific area or highlight pool-edge features.
Olympic Pool Paint Poxoprime II Primer
Best as a primer for pool plaster or concrete surfaces prior to topcoat coatings. This two-part epoxy primer comes in a base and a catalyst ready-for-mixing format, with an estimated coverage of 200–250 square feet per mixed gallon. It helps improve adhesion and longevity of subsequent coatings. Use when preparing a deck for a color coating or sealant to enhance durability.
Buying Guide: Concrete Coating Around Pool
What should I consider before buying a pool deck coating?
- Surface condition: Assess cracking, existing coatings, and porosity. Choose a system that includes surface prep if you have worn or damaged concrete.
- Heat management: If heat reduction is a priority, look for products marketed as heat-reducing or solar-reflective and check per-square-foot coverage.
- Coverage and layers: Determine total deck area and plan for multiple coats if required. Some bundles target 200 sq ft coverage per kit; others may vary by surface condition.
- Safety and traction: For wet pool areas, non-slip or skid-resistant finishes improve safety. Consider products with integrated texture or non-slip additives.
- Color and aesthetics: If you want a specific look, choose tintable coatings or color-ready primers. Verify color accuracy with official color cards when possible.
- Application method: DIY kits may require cleaners, etchers, or separate primers. Follow steps for best adhesion and longevity.
- Underwater repairs: For cracks or leaks, consider putty or epoxy repair products in addition to surface coatings.
FAQ
What is the best coating for heat reduction on a pool deck?
Coatings marketed as cool deck or heat-reducing typically offer reflective properties to lower surface temperatures. Look for products claiming substantial heat reduction and consider a two-step prep system for best results.
Do I need a primer before coating a pool deck?
Primers improve adhesion and color uniformity, especially on bare concrete or plaster. A dedicated primer like Poxoprime II is often recommended when applying epoxy-based topcoats.
Can I apply pool deck coatings over existing coatings?
Yes, but surface preparation is crucial. Cleaning, etching, and possibly abrading the old coating ensure proper adhesion and durability.
Is a DIY kit sufficient for a large pool deck?
Many kits cover about 200 sq ft per application. For larger areas, multiple kits or professional application may be required to maintain even coverage and color consistency.
Will these coatings be durable in saltwater or chlorine environments?
Durability depends on the specific formula. Look for products that advertise outdoor, all-weather, or pool-specific durability and resistance to chemical exposure.
Are these coatings slip-resistant?
Some products include non-slip properties or recommended additives. If slip resistance is important, prioritize products with skid-resistance features or add non-slip components as advised by the manufacturer.