Concrete Pool Decks

Why Concrete Makes the Best Pool Decks

Your pool deck takes more abuse than almost any other part of your property. It gets wet constantly, sits in direct sun all summer, and deals with chemicals from your pool water. You need a material that can handle all of that without becoming a maintenance nightmare. That is why concrete pool decks are the most popular choice in San Luis Obispo.

Concrete handles water better than wood, which rots, or pavers, which can shift and create uneven spots where people trip. Concrete stays in place, drains properly when installed with the right slope, and does not need regular refinishing like a wood deck.

Safety is the biggest concern with pool decks. You need a surface that provides traction when wet. Smooth concrete can be slippery, which is why we always add texture to pool decks. A broom finish, brushed texture, or stamped pattern gives your bare feet something to grip, even when the surface is soaked.

The other major benefit of concrete is that it reflects less heat than darker materials like stone or brick pavers. In San Luis Obispo summers, this makes a real difference. Light-colored concrete stays comfortable to walk on, while dark pavers can get so hot they burn your feet.

What Goes Into Building a Pool Deck

Building a pool deck requires careful planning because the deck needs to work with your pool equipment, drainage, and local building codes. We start by looking at the slope of your yard and determining where water will drain. Pool decks should slope away from your home and pool at about 1 to 2 percent grade.

Base preparation is critical for pool decks. The ground around pools often has loose fill soil from the pool excavation. We remove this soft material, compact the soil properly, and add a gravel base. This prevents settling that would create low spots where water pools.

We also install control joints every 8 to 10 feet. These are intentional weak points where the concrete will crack in a straight line rather than randomly. Concrete will crack, especially in California where we have temperature swings. Control joints make those cracks happen where you want them and keep them narrow and manageable.

The area right around your pool requires special attention. We create a small drainage channel or slope so water from splashing and wet swimmers does not puddle against the pool edge. This detail prevents staining and makes your deck more comfortable to use.

If your pool is on a slope, you might also need retaining walls to create level areas and manage grade changes. These walls can also double as seating or planting areas around your pool.