Imagine stepping out onto your pool deck on a scorching summer day, barefoot, without wincing from the heat. That’s the magic of Cool Pool Deck Coating. I’ve spent countless hours researching and testing pool deck solutions, and I can tell you, this product is a standout.
It’s not just about keeping your feet comfortable; it’s about transforming your pool area into a safe, stylish, and low-maintenance haven. If you’re tired of burning soles or slippery surfaces, trust me, you’ll want to keep reading to see why Cool Pool Deck Coating is worth every penny.
My Journey With Cool Pool Deck Coating
Last summer, my pool deck was a nightmare. The old concrete was cracked, faded, and so hot I’d sprint from the lounge chair to the water like I was auditioning for an Olympic relay team. I’d heard about Cool Pool Deck Coating from a friend who couldn’t stop raving about how it transformed her backyard.
Skeptical but desperate, I decided to give it a shot. Let me tell you, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my home.
The process started with a weekend project. I’m no DIY guru, but the kit from Encore Coatings made it feel like I was. It came with everything I needed: the Cool coating, a cleaner called TripleCrown, and a sealer named SealBack.
The instructions were clear, and I didn’t need to rent fancy equipment. I grabbed a standard paint roller, a brush for edges, and a gallon of semi-gloss acrylic paint in a soft beige to match my patio furniture. After pressure-washing the deck and applying the cleaner, I mixed the coating with the paint.
The texture was thick but smooth, spreading evenly without dripping. It dried in minutes, which was a lifesaver because I didn’t want to babysit wet paint all day.
The first thing I noticed after applying it was the surface. It wasn’t just flat concrete anymore; it had this subtle texture that felt grippy underfoot, even when wet. The next day, I walked out in the midday sun, braced for the usual heat, and… nothing.
It was genuinely comfortable. My kids, who used to avoid the deck unless they had flip-flops, were now running around barefoot, laughing without a care. The coating also filled in those annoying hairline cracks, making the deck look brand-new.
I sealed it with SealBack, and a year later, it still looks fantastic. That’s my story, and I’m betting you’ll have a similar one if you try it.
What Makes Cool Pool Deck Coating So Special?
You might be wondering what sets Cool Pool Deck Coating apart from the sea of pool deck products out there. Let’s break it down. This isn’t your average paint. It’s a specialized acrylic-based coating designed to bond tightly with concrete, creating a durable, slip-resistant surface that reflects heat like a champ.
The folks at Encore Coatings claim it can reduce surface temperatures by up to 38%, and from my experience, that’s no exaggeration. It’s also customizable—you can tint it to any color you want, which means your pool deck can match your vibe, whether that’s sleek modern or cozy rustic.
The application is a breeze, even for someone like me who’s more comfortable with a TV remote than a paint roller. You don’t need to grind down old coatings if they’re still adhered, which saved me a ton of time and money.
Plus, it’s water-based and low-VOC, so you’re not choking on fumes while applying it. But the real kicker? It’s built to last. With proper care, this coating can keep your deck looking pristine for 15-20 years, which is way longer than most alternatives. It’s not just a quick fix; it’s a long-term investment in your poolside peace of mind.
Also Read: Comparison of Pebble Tec And Wet Edge.
Pros of Cool Pool Deck Coating
I’ve been living with this coating for over a year now, and I’m still impressed by how it’s holding up. Here’s why I think it’s a winner:
- Heat Reduction That Actually Works: This is the big one. The coating reflects sunlight so well that my deck stays cool even on 90-degree days. I’ve tested it against bare concrete nearby, and the difference is night and day. No more tiptoeing or dousing the deck with water just to walk on it.
- Slip-Resistant for Safety: Wet pool decks are a slip-and-fall waiting to happen, but Cool’s textured surface gives you grip without feeling rough. My kids and their friends run around like wild animals, and I don’t worry about anyone taking a tumble.
- Customizable Colors: You’re not stuck with boring beige. I mixed in a custom shade to match my outdoor decor, and it looks like a professional job. The ability to tint it with any acrylic paint means your creativity’s the only limit.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: This stuff doesn’t chip or peel easily. I’ve had patio furniture dragged across it, and it’s still holding strong. Encore claims it can last up to 20 years with maintenance, and I believe it based on how it’s performed so far.
- Easy Application for DIYers: You don’t need to be a pro to get great results. The kit is user-friendly, and the process is straightforward—clean, mix, roll, seal. I finished my 200-square-foot deck in a weekend without breaking a sweat.
- Crack Repair Built-In: Those pesky hairline cracks in my old deck? The coating filled them in, saving me from expensive concrete repairs. It’s like getting a two-for-one deal: a new look and structural fixes.
Cons of Cool Pool Deck Coating
No product is perfect, and while I’m a fan, there are a few things you should know before jumping in:
- Upfront Cost Can Sting: Compared to basic deck paint, Cool is pricier. A single kit for 200 square feet isn’t cheap, and if you’ve got a big deck, you’ll need multiple kits. That said, I think the longevity makes it worth it.
- Prep Work Is Key: If your deck has loose old coatings or serious damage, you’ll need to spend time prepping. I got lucky with a mostly intact surface, but if yours needs grinding or repairs, it’s extra work.
- Color Choice Matters: Darker colors don’t cool as effectively because they absorb more heat. I learned this the hard way when I considered a charcoal shade—stick to lighter tones for the best results.
- Sealing Adds a Step: The SealBack sealer is great, but it’s an extra step and cost. You’ll need to reapply it every couple of years, which isn’t hard but requires planning.
- Not Ideal for Heavy Damage: If your deck has major cracks or structural issues, Cool can only do so much. You might need professional repairs first, which can add to the project’s complexity.
Maintenance Tips For Keeping Your Cool Deck Pristine
Keeping your Cool Pool Deck Coating looking fresh and performing well isn’t rocket science, but it does take a little effort. I’ve learned a few tricks to make maintenance a breeze, and I’m happy to share them with you.
- Regular Cleaning Keeps It Fresh: Sweeping your deck weekly to remove dirt, leaves, and debris is a must. I use a stiff-bristle broom to get into the texture without scratching. For deeper cleaning, a garden hose with a spray nozzle works wonders. Every couple of months, I mix a mild dish soap with water and give it a gentle scrub with a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals—they can weaken the coating over time.
- Handle Stains Promptly: Spills happen, especially with kids and pool parties. I’ve dealt with sunscreen, soda, and even rust stains from some old patio furniture. The trick is to act fast. A damp cloth with an all-purpose cleaner usually does the job. For stubborn stains like rust, I used a product like Goof Off, which worked like magic without damaging the coating.
- Reapply Sealer Every 2-3 Years: The SealBack sealer is your deck’s best friend. I reapplied it after a year, and it kept the surface vibrant and protected. Plan to reapply every two to three years, depending on your climate and foot traffic. It’s a quick job—just roll it on like paint—but it makes a huge difference in longevity.
- Avoid Power-Washing Pitfalls: I made the mistake of cranking my pressure washer too high the first time I cleaned the deck, and it roughed up a small spot. Stick to low-pressure settings (under 1,500 PSI) to avoid damaging the coating. A wide spray pattern is your safest bet.
- Inspect for Damage Annually: Once a year, I walk the deck to check for chips or cracks, especially around high-traffic areas. If you spot minor damage, touch it up with leftover Cool coating (store it in a sealed can). For bigger issues, you might need a pro, but I haven’t had to cross that bridge yet.
- Protect Against Furniture Scratches: Heavy patio furniture can scuff the surface if you’re not careful. I put felt pads under my chairs and tables, and it’s saved me from headaches. If you’re moving furniture, lift it—don’t drag it.
Also Read: Comparison of Pebble Tec And Pebble Sheen.
Comparing Cool Pool Deck Coating To Other Brands
You’re probably wondering how Cool stacks up against other big names in the pool deck game. I’ve done my homework, talking to neighbors, reading reviews, and even testing a couple of alternatives on smaller projects. Here’s how Cool compares to some heavy hitters like Kool Deck, Penntek, and Liquid Rubber.
- Kool Deck by Mortex
Kool Deck has been around since the 1960s, and it’s the OG of cool pool deck coatings. It’s a cement-based overlay applied to fresh concrete, known for its heat-reflective properties and textured finish. I considered it for my deck, but here’s the catch: it’s not a DIY job.
You need a skilled contractor, and if the mix isn’t perfect, durability suffers. Kool Deck stays cool, but it’s not as slip-resistant as Cool, and it lacks a warranty unless the installer provides one.
Cool’s ability to go over existing surfaces and its longer lifespan (15-20 years vs. Kool Deck’s 10-15) gave it the edge for me. Plus, Kool Deck’s color options are limited compared to Cool’s endless tinting possibilities.
- Penntek Industrial Coatings
Penntek’s polyurea and polyaspartic coatings are the tough guys of the pool deck world. They’re incredibly durable—four times stronger than epoxy, by some claims—and flexible enough to handle temperature swings without cracking.
I saw a neighbor’s Penntek deck, and it looked slick, with vibrant colors and a glossy finish. But it’s not cheap, and professional installation is pretty much mandatory, which drove the cost way up. Cool, on the other hand, let me save a bundle by doing it myself.
Penntek’s 15-year warranty is solid, but Cool’s lifetime guarantee for as long as I own my home feels more reassuring. If you want industrial strength and don’t mind the price, Penntek’s great, but Cool offers similar durability for less hassle.
- Liquid Rubber Polyurethane Deck Coating
Liquid Rubber caught my eye because it’s marketed as a waterproof, UV-stable option for both wood and concrete. I tried it on a small patio section, and the application was straightforward, much like Cool.
It’s thick, so it covers imperfections well, but I found it less forgiving if you make a mistake—streaks showed up if I wasn’t careful. Liquid Rubber is durable, lasting 5-10 years, but it doesn’t match Cool’s 15-20-year lifespan.
It also lacks the heat-reflective properties that make Cool so comfortable in the sun. For pool decks specifically, Cool’s slip-resistant texture and ability to repair cracks give it a clear advantage over Liquid Rubber’s more general-purpose approach.
- Epoxy Coatings
Epoxy is a popular choice for pool decks because it’s tough, chemical-resistant, and can be customized with flakes or colors. I looked into it but was put off by the application process, which requires precise mixing and often professional help.
Epoxy can also get slippery when wet unless you add non-slip additives, which Cool has built-in. While epoxy lasts 10-15 years, it’s not as heat-reflective as Cool, and I’ve seen friends deal with peeling if the prep work isn’t perfect. Cool’s ease of use and superior cooling made it the better pick for my needs.
- Acrylic Coatings
Acrylic coatings are budget-friendly and versatile, with good UV resistance and a range of colors. I tested a basic acrylic paint on a concrete slab years ago, and while it looked nice initially, it started fading within a couple of years.
Acrylics are easier to apply than epoxy but don’t bond as strongly as Cool, so they’re prone to chipping in high-traffic areas. They also don’t cool as effectively as Cool’s specialized formula. If you’re on a tight budget, acrylics are tempting, but Cool’s longevity and performance justify the extra cost for me.
Why Cool Pool Deck Coating Wins for Me?
After comparing the options, Cool Pool Deck Coating came out on top for a few key reasons. Its DIY-friendly application saved me thousands compared to professional-only options like Penntek or Kool Deck.
The heat reduction is unmatched—I can walk barefoot on my deck in July without a second thought. The slip-resistant texture gives me peace of mind with kids around, and the ability to customize colors let me make my pool area my own.
Sure, it’s not the cheapest upfront, but the long lifespan and low maintenance make it a steal over time. I’ve had friends go with other coatings and regret the fading or peeling, but my deck still looks as good as the day I applied it.
Also Read: Comparison of Quartz And Pebble Pool Finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Absolutely, it does. I was skeptical at first, but after applying Cool Pool Deck Coating, my deck’s surface temperature dropped significantly—Encore claims up to 38%, and I’d say that feels about right. It’s comfortable to walk on even during the hottest part of the day, and the slip-resistant texture makes it safer than bare concrete. It’s not just hype; it’s a game-changer for anyone who wants a cooler, safer pool deck.
With proper maintenance, Cool Pool Deck Coating can last 15-20 years. I’ve had mine for over a year, and it still looks brand-new. Regular cleaning and sealing every two to three years are key to maximizing its lifespan. Encore backs it with a lifetime warranty for as long as you own your home, which is a huge confidence booster.
Cool Deck and Kool Deck sound similar, but they’re distinct. Cool Deck, from Encore Coatings, is a DIY-friendly acrylic-based coating you can apply over existing surfaces. It’s customizable, slip-resistant, and designed to reduce heat. Kool Deck, by Mortex, is a cement-based overlay applied to fresh concrete by professionals, with a focus on cooling but fewer color options and no standard warranty. Cool is easier to install and maintain, while Kool Deck requires more expertise.
The cost depends on your deck size and whether you DIY or hire a pro. A Cool Pool Deck Coating kit covers 200 square feet and includes the coating, cleaner, and sealer. You’ll also need a gallon of acrylic paint for tinting. For my 200-square-foot deck, I spent a bit on the kit and paint, but it was far less than the thousands quoted for professional installations like Penntek or Kool Deck. Larger decks or professional application will increase costs, but DIY keeps it affordable.
Why You Should Choose Cool Pool Deck Coating?
If you want a pool deck that’s cool, safe, and stunning, Cool Pool Deck Coating is the way to go. I’ve walked you through my experience, the pros and cons, and how it stacks up against the competition.
This isn’t just a coating; it’s a transformation that makes your pool area a joy to use. From easy application to long-lasting durability, it’s a product that delivers. Don’t let another summer pass with a hot, hazardous deck—grab a Cool kit and make your backyard the envy of the neighborhood.