Bare concrete around a pool? It’s a recipe for scorching feet and slippery falls. Painting your concrete pool deck not only makes it look nicer, but it also adds a layer of protection against the elements and keeps everyone safer. I’ve spent a lot of time researching the best options, and even tried a few myself. Here’s a breakdown of the top concrete pool deck paints to help you choose the right one.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- KILZ Interior/Exterior Concrete & Masonry Paint: Budget-friendly, good for general use.
- INSL-X Sure Step Acrylic Anti-Slip Coating Paint: Best for slip resistance, textured finish.
- Rust-Oleum RockSolid Deck Resurfacer: Ideal for older, cracked decks, thick coating.
- BEHR PREMIUM Porch & Patio Floor Paint: Excellent UV resistance, wide color selection.
- Latex-ite Acry Color Deck-Cote: Durable, flexible, resists cracking.
Top 5 Best Concrete Pool Deck Paint
1. KILZ Interior/Exterior Concrete & Masonry Paint
KILZ Concrete & Masonry Paint is a solid all-around choice. It’s designed to adhere well to concrete and masonry surfaces, creating a durable and protective finish. It’s a water-based acrylic paint, making it easy to apply and clean up.
Pros:
- ✅ Budget-friendly option.
- ✅ Easy to apply and clean up with water.
- ✅ Good for both interior and exterior use.
Cons:
- ❌ May require multiple coats for full coverage.
- ❌ Not specifically designed for slip resistance.
- ❌ Limited color options compared to some other brands.
Verdict: A great value for those looking for a basic, reliable concrete paint. Best for decks in good condition that don’t require heavy-duty resurfacing.
2. INSL-X Sure Step Acrylic Anti-Slip Coating Paint
INSL-X Sure Step is all about safety. This acrylic coating contains a fine aggregate that creates a textured, slip-resistant surface. Perfect for areas where water is common, like around a pool.
Pros:
- ✅ Superior slip resistance.
- ✅ Durable acrylic formula.
- ✅ Available in multiple colors.
Cons:
- ❌ The textured surface can be harder to clean.
- ❌ Can be rough on bare feet.
- ❌ May require more frequent cleaning to prevent dirt buildup in the texture.
Verdict: If slip resistance is your top priority, INSL-X Sure Step is the way to go. Ideal for families with kids or anyone concerned about falls around the pool.
3. Rust-Oleum RockSolid Deck Resurfacer
Rust-Oleum RockSolid is a thick, heavily pigmented coating designed to restore and resurface old, damaged concrete. It fills in cracks and imperfections, giving your deck a brand-new look. I used this on a patio that was riddled with cracks, and the difference was night and day.
Pros:
- ✅ Fills in cracks and imperfections.
- ✅ Creates a durable, waterproof barrier.
- ✅ Extends the life of older concrete surfaces.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than standard concrete paint.
- ❌ Requires careful surface preparation.
- ❌ Can be difficult to apply evenly due to its thickness.
Verdict: Best for decks with significant damage or cracking. A good investment if you want to avoid the cost of replacing your entire deck.
4. BEHR PREMIUM Porch & Patio Floor Paint
BEHR Premium Porch & Patio Floor Paint is known for its excellent UV resistance and wide range of colors. This acrylic latex paint provides a durable and long-lasting finish that resists fading and cracking, even in direct sunlight. It also resists mildew, which is a huge plus for pool areas.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent UV resistance to prevent fading.
- ✅ Wide variety of colors available.
- ✅ Resists mildew and stains.
Cons:
- ❌ May require a primer for optimal adhesion.
- ❌ Not specifically designed for slip resistance (consider adding a non-slip additive).
- ❌ Can be susceptible to hot tire pickup in driveways.
Verdict: A great choice for those who want a beautiful, long-lasting finish with excellent color options. Ideal for decks that get a lot of sun exposure.
5. Latex-ite Acry Color Deck-Cote
Latex-ite Acry Color Deck-Cote is a flexible and durable acrylic coating specifically designed for concrete decks. Its flexible formula helps prevent cracking and peeling, even with temperature changes and heavy use. I’ve seen this used on commercial pool decks, and it holds up remarkably well.
Pros:
- ✅ Highly flexible to resist cracking.
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting.
- ✅ Provides a waterproof barrier.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some other options.
- ❌ Requires proper surface preparation.
- ❌ Limited color selection.
Verdict: A premium choice for those who want a durable, crack-resistant finish. Ideal for areas with extreme temperature fluctuations or heavy foot traffic.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right concrete pool deck paint involves more than just picking a color. Here are some factors to consider:
- Condition of your deck: If your deck is cracked or damaged, you’ll need a resurfacing product like Rust-Oleum RockSolid. For decks in good condition, a standard concrete paint like KILZ or BEHR will work fine.
- Slip resistance: Pool decks get wet, so slip resistance is crucial. Consider INSL-X Sure Step or add a non-slip additive to your chosen paint.
- UV resistance: Direct sunlight can fade and damage paint. Choose a paint with good UV resistance, like BEHR Premium Porch & Patio Floor Paint.
- Durability: Look for paints that are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, temperature changes, and exposure to pool chemicals.
- Color: Choose a color that complements your pool and outdoor space. Lighter colors will reflect more heat, keeping your deck cooler.
- Ease of application: Consider whether the paint is easy to apply and clean up. Water-based acrylic paints are generally easier to work with than oil-based paints.
- Budget: Concrete paints range in price, so set a budget before you start shopping.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to prime my concrete deck before painting?
A: It depends on the paint and the condition of your deck. Some paints, like BEHR Premium, recommend a primer for optimal adhesion. If your deck is porous or has been previously painted, priming is generally a good idea.
Q: How do I prepare my concrete deck for painting?
A: Start by cleaning the deck thoroughly with a pressure washer or a scrub brush and a concrete cleaner. Remove any loose paint, dirt, or debris. Repair any cracks or damage with a concrete patching compound. Let the deck dry completely before painting.
Q: How many coats of paint do I need?
A: Most concrete paints require at least two coats for full coverage and durability. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
Q: How long should I wait before walking on the painted deck?
A: Allow the paint to dry completely before walking on the deck. Drying times vary depending on the paint and the weather conditions. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific drying times.
Q: Can I add a non-slip additive to any concrete paint?
A: Yes, you can add a non-slip additive to most concrete paints. This is a good option if you want to improve the slip resistance of a paint that doesn’t already have it. Be sure to follow the additive manufacturer’s instructions for proper mixing and application.
Conclusion
Painting your concrete pool deck is a worthwhile project that can improve its appearance, safety, and longevity. By considering the factors outlined in this guide and choosing the right paint for your needs, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Whether you prioritize slip resistance, durability, or budget, there’s a concrete pool deck paint out there that’s perfect for you.
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