How a Pool Deck Company Can Revamp Your Outdoor Space

Beach lounge on sunbathing deck and private awimming pool

Are you tired of looking at your dull and uninspiring outdoor space? Do you dream of transforming it into a beautiful and inviting oasis? Choose a pool deck company to revamp your outdoor space and make your dreams a reality.

With their expertise and experience, these professionals can breathe new life into your backyard, creating a space that you and your loved ones will enjoy for years to come. From modern and sleek designs to rustic and natural aesthetics, the possibilities are endless when it comes to outdoor design trends.

By hiring a pool deck company, you will not only enhance the visual appeal of your outdoor space but also increase the value of your property. So why wait? Take the first step towards transforming your outdoor space today and start enjoying the benefits of an upgraded and customized oasis.

Why Do Outdoor Spaces Matter?

Outdoor spaces matter for several reasons. Firstly, they provide an escape from daily routines and allow you to connect with nature, creating a soothing and rejuvenating atmosphere. Secondly, stepping outside into a well-designed outdoor space after a long day at work can instantly transport you to a different world. The fresh air, the greenery, and the natural elements help to reduce stress and promote relaxation. It’s a place where you can unwind, read a book, or simply enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.

Outdoor spaces also provide an opportunity to connect with loved ones and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a family gathering, a barbecue with friends, or a romantic evening under the stars, these spaces serve as the perfect backdrop for quality time and bonding.

So, don’t underestimate the power of an outdoor space – it has the potential to transform your daily life and enhance your overall well-being.

What Are the Current Trends in Outdoor Design?

Transform your backyard into a breathtaking oasis with the latest trends in outdoor design.

One of the current trends in outdoor design is creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This can be achieved by using materials such as natural stone or wood that complement the interior of your home. Another popular trend is incorporating eco-friendly elements into your outdoor space, such as rainwater harvesting systems or solar-powered lighting. In terms of aesthetics, modern and minimalist designs are gaining popularity, with clean lines and sleek furniture. Additionally, outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas are becoming more elaborate, with built-in grills, fire pits, and comfortable seating.

By incorporating these current trends into your outdoor space, you can create a stylish and functional area that will impress your guests and provide a relaxing retreat for you and your family.

Benefits of Hiring a Pool Deck Company

Hiring a pool deck company offers several benefits that can transform your outdoor space into a stunning retreat. First and foremost, these professionals have the expertise and experience to create a design that complements your existing landscape and meets your specific needs. They can help you choose the right materials, colors, and finishes to achieve the desired aesthetic. A pool deck contractor will ensure that the construction process is done efficiently and with quality craftsmanship, saving you time and hassle. They will also take care of any necessary permits and inspections, ensuring that everything is up to code.

With their help, you can enjoy a beautiful and functional pool deck that enhances your outdoor living experience for years to come.

What Customization Options Are Available?

By hiring experts, you can explore a wide range of customization options to elevate your backyard oasis to new heights. A reputable pool deck company can offer you various choices to personalize your outdoor space and make it truly unique.

One popular option is selecting the type of material for your deck. Whether you prefer the classic look of wood or the durability of composite materials, the choice is yours.

You can choose from a variety of colors and finishes to match your style and enhance the overall aesthetic of your pool area. You can opt for different deck layouts and patterns, such as herringbone or basketweave, to add visual interest and create a stunning focal point.

With the help of a pool deck company, the possibilities for customization are endless, allowing you to create the backyard oasis of your dreams.

How Can You Maintain the Longevity of Your Revamped Outdoor Space?

To ensure the longevity of your newly renovated backyard oasis, you’ll want to regularly maintain and care for it, keeping it in pristine condition for years to come. One important aspect of maintenance is cleaning. Regularly sweep or hose down your pool deck to remove dirt, leaves, and debris. This will prevent staining and buildup that can damage the surface over time. Be sure to inspect and repair any cracks or chips in the deck promptly. These small imperfections can worsen and lead to more extensive damage if left untreated. Applying a coat of sealant every few years can also help protect the surface from wear and tear. Finally, remember to monitor the water chemistry in your pool to prevent any damage to the surrounding deck.

By following these maintenance tips, you can enjoy your revamped outdoor space for many years to come.

What Budget Considerations Should You Keep in Mind?

When working with a pool deck company, there are several budget considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to set a realistic budget for your project. Consider factors such as the size of your outdoor space, the materials you want to use, and any additional features you’d like to include. Keep in mind that while it’s important to stick to your budget, you also want to ensure you’re investing in quality materials and workmanship that will stand the test of time. Don’t forget to factor in any additional costs such as permits, landscaping, and maintenance. By carefully considering your budget, you can make informed decisions and achieve the outdoor space of your dreams without breaking the bank.

Read Blog: 10 Questions to Ask Your Pool Deck Contractor

Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Space?

Ready to elevate your outdoor space? Bring in a pool deck company to transform it into a functional and visually stunning oasis. These experts offer a range of materials and designs, tailoring the pool deck to your home and lifestyle. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek look or a natural, rustic feel, collaborate with professionals to bring your vision to life. Don’t delay – take the first step in creating your personalized backyard retreat today.

Explore Capital deck and stair waterproofing for added protection and longevity. Investing in a pool deck company enhances aesthetics, increases property value, and promises long-term enjoyment. Ensure longevity with proper maintenance. Ready for a comprehensive upgrade? Take the plunge and give your outdoor space the makeover it deserves!

How Often Should I Resurface My Pool Deck?

Worker wearing spiked shoes smoothing wet pool plaster with trowel

The best pool decks are durable, waterproof, and rugged and have anti-slip properties that allow those walking on them to have traction even when the deck is wet. Over time, this exposure to water will eventually cause wear and tear to a deck’s surface, causing it to crack and become unstable. This means it’s extremely important both for your deck and for your pool to make sure that your deck is regularly resealed to retain its waterproof qualities.

How often should you reseal your deck? The answer isn’t always straightforward, as it depends on a number of different factors. Here are some of those factors and what they mean for resealing your pool deck.

Deck Material

Residential building with swimming pool

Pool decks are constructed from lots of different materials. While most are a form of textured concrete, some people opt for a more natural look using sandstone slates. Some even use clay tiles or marble as their deck surface.

While a good waterproofing job should last at least a couple of years for each of these materials, concrete and other hard materials tend to have better water resistance than softer materials like sandstone.

How Often Should You Seal Concrete Pool Decks?

swimming pool and lounge chairs

It doesn’t matter how you applied the seal for your pool deck. After constant weather exposure and UV rays, you’ll need to reseal it. The resealing should be done every two to five years for concrete surfaces.

The best way to determine whether your decorative concrete pool deck needs a new sealing coat is to pay attention to external damage. For instance, you will notice that there are signs of wear and tear on the concrete surface. After a few years, you might also notice that water soaks into the surface instead of beading up.

These are some of the benefits of resealing your concrete pool decks:

  • Concrete pool deck sealers can enhance the overall look of your deck, turning a rough material into decorative concrete.
  • Some concrete sealers provide a slip-resistant surface, perfect for preventing accidents. It is an essential feature if you have kids constantly running around the swimming pool.
  • The right sealer can also tint your concrete deck, enhancing its colors. Colored concrete is becoming more popular for residential and commercial pools.

If you are unsure whether your deck needs sealing, you can contact us. At Capital Deck & Stair, our team is ready to solve any doubts you might have about the pool deck sealing process.

Deck Use Level

family having fun and splashing water with legs or hands in swimming pool

Is your pool a gem of your backyard that only sees use a few times per year? If so, you probably won’t need to resurface and reseal it for quite a bit longer than a pool that’s used regularly and heavily every day. A public pool at a local park is going to need a lot more care far more often than the same pool deck at a private residence.

Environment

Pool party - sunglasses

Where your pool deck is and what level of exposure to the elements it receives also influences how long a waterproof seal will last. Ultraviolet exposure and lots of heat will eventually cause a waterproof seal to wear out and become less effective. Therefore, a pool deck that receives long hours of sun exposure every day will need to be sealed far more often than one covered by shade or sits indoors.

Reseal Your Concrete Deck with Capital Deck & Stair

Worker wearing spiked shoes smoothing wet pool plaster with trowel

If your deck needs resealing, look no further than the deck waterproofing experts of Los Angeles. At Capital Deck & Stair, we have everything you need to keep your decks protected and looking stylish. Our team can reseal your concrete decks in no time while using only the highest quality of materials.

Call us at (888) 508-2966 to request an estimate or schedule your service. You can also check out our website to learn more about our deck waterproofing and sealing services.

Concrete Pool Deck Paint Ideas: 5 Popular Colors and Designs

Lounge chairs with blue towel on a pool deck

A fresh coat of paint is a great way to breathe new life and color into your concrete pool deck.

Since concrete easily takes to paint, texturing, and various surface finishes, there’s plenty of possibilities when it comes to designing the perfect pool deck. With so many colors and designs to choose from, how do you know which options are best for your pool deck?

In this post, we’ll run through some of the most popular concrete pool deck paint colors and designs and discuss how each choice can help your pool deck blend into its surroundings. Read on to learn more and discover the right color choice for your pool deck!

Benefits of Concrete Pool Deck Paint

Painting work on old house

Apart from enhancing the overall beauty of your pool area, many homeowners are surprised to discover some of the time- and cost-saving benefits of concrete deck paint. Here are just a few:

Improves Beauty

Like a blank canvas, unfinished concrete quickly becomes strikingly beautiful with the right coat of paint. The benefit isn’t limited to the concrete itself, however. By selecting a color that coordinates with the surrounding area, a painted pool deck can also improve the overall beauty and appearance of your pool area.

Easy to Apply

Concrete is incredibly easy to paint, thanks in part to its porous surface. With the right team and painting equipment, most concrete pool decks can be painted within an afternoon. Combined with a final coat of deck waterproofing, it only takes a day to secure the beauty and strength of your concrete surfaces for years to come.

Inexpensive

While costs vary depending on paint types and deck sizes, one thing is usually true: Concrete pool deck paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to finish your pool deck. This cost-effectiveness becomes especially apparent when comparing other pool deck materials and finishes. Where wood and masonry decks require expensive finishes and time-consuming application, concrete decks are quick, easy, and inexpensive to paint.

Protects Surfaces

Combined with a top coat of waterproof deck coating, a coat of paint can protect concrete from pool water, rain, and other potential vectors for water damage. Paints, waterproof coatings, and other surface finishes are especially important for preserving the strength and beauty of concrete. While concrete’s porosity makes it easy to apply paint, it also makes it especially susceptible to water infiltration and damage. As a result, deck paints and waterproof coatings aren’t just nice add-ons—they’re essential for preserving your deck!

5 Most Popular Colors for Concrete Pool Deck Paint

Colorful nails

Whether you want your concrete deck to blend into its surroundings or completely pop with color, one of these popular colors can help:

1. Whites and Off-Whites

Perhaps the most classic pool deck colors, whites, off-whites, and beiges evoke images of soft, sandy beaches. Whites and other light colors also naturally reflect the sun, keeping the surface refreshingly cool on hot days. Many people also prefer shades of whites for their neutrality, which is useful for those who don’t want the pool deck to draw attention away from surrounding structures.

2. Blues and Grays

As the colors most closely associated with water and the sea, blues and grays are excellent choices for a pool deck color. While unfinished concrete is gray, adding a deeper or lighter gray provides a smoother, cleaner appearance with all the extra benefits of concrete pool deck paint, of course. Blues provide a similar upgrade; however, certain tints may be especially complementary to the brilliant blue of the swimming pool itself.

3. Tans and Browns

Residential Backyard Pool in the Suburbs

Tans and browns are a great way to replicate traditional masonry and other earthy surroundings.

Where reddish-brown and tans can make a concrete slab look like terracotta masonry, light and dark shades of brown can replicate dirt and earth. If you’re looking to make your pool look like a desert oasis or a swimming hole, these are the colors for you.

4. Color Mixtures

Why stick with just one color? With multiple colors, you can create all kinds of pleasing patterns and creative combinations. From free-flowing floral patterns to strong geometric shapes, your concrete pool deck serves as a blank canvas for your ideas. Plus, with an additional layer of deck waterproofing, you can preserve your designs for years to come.

5. Bold Colors

If you really want to make your pool deck “pop,” consider using bright and bold colors. Though your pool deck won’t blend in as well with the surroundings, that could be a benefit if you have a uniquely shaped pool deck. In some cases, it may also make sense to match the pool deck color to surrounding structures.

Concrete Pool Deck Paint Design Ideas

Pool Projekt Skizze

Unlike other pool deck materials, poured concrete offers a solid, flat surface without planks or tiles. As a result, the design and appearance of your concrete pool deck is entirely up to you. Here are just a few popular design ideas to get you started:

Solid Color with Trim

Perhaps the most popular design choice, a solid color with a contrasting trim is timeless, sophisticated, and easy to achieve. While the trim is usually either a lighter or darker shade of the deck color, there’s no reason you can’t use a completely different color. One popular example is a solid white deck with a bright blue trim—a combination popular in coastal Greece.

Faux Tiles

Why fuss with messy grout and expensive tiles when you can just paint them on? Though this idea might sound a bit tacky, it’s surprisingly convincing when using colors that replicate natural stone. By blending and mixing different earthy colors, you can give your solid concrete the look of a hand-laid masonry patio at a fraction of the cost.

Geometric Patterns

While square, tile-like patterns are great choices for pool decks, you can also use paint to create geometric patterns of other shapes. One popular example is a repeating hexagonal pattern, where each hexagon forms an individual tile. Using different shades of paint, you can alternate colors across the deck and even create a color gradient that gradually changes between the edges of your deck. The possibilities are endless!

Floral Patterns

If a repeating geometric pattern seems a little too traditional, a floral pattern is a great alternative. Whether you choose to embellish your concrete deck with an intricate network of budding vines or simply paint a border of flowers, floral patterns are always a dazzling choice. While they may take a bit more work than geometric patterns, they’re worth the effort if you have a particularly “flowery” design in mind.

Pattern Combinations

Solid? Geometric? Floral? Why choose one when you can choose them all! There are many ways to combine popular pool deck patterns. For example, a solid grid of square “tiles” is easily improved by adding floral embellishments along its borders. Similarly, a solid color can be accentuated with a border of either repeating shapes or floral patterns or pretty much anything else you might think of.

How to Apply Concrete Pool Deck Paint to an Existing Deck

modern luxury summer villa with infinity pool

No matter what color or design you choose, the pool deck painting process is usually the same.

Like any  surface finishing job, one of the biggest steps of the painting process is surface preparation. Here, your concrete pool deck must be completely cleaned and even stripped of existing finishes before painting can begin.

Once the surface is ready, painting can begin. While solid colors are easily applied with a spray gun or roller, more intricate patterns, including geometric and floral elements, may require a little more work. Thankfully, it’s easy to use a template to quickly apply patterns of the perfect size and shape.

With your concrete pool deck painted to your liking, it’s time to protect your investment with a coat of deck waterproofing. Waterproofing not only protects your paint, however: It also prevents water from seeping into the porous concrete underneath.

The right waterproof coating applied the right way can secure the beauty and strength of your concrete pool deck for years to come. Though you’ll need to apply a new coat at one point, reapplication is just as effective and easy as the first coat.

Protect Your Paint with Pool Deck Waterproofing from Capital Deck & Stair

Top view of outdoor swimming pool

Though it’s possible to paint your own deck and even apply your own waterproofing, only an expert team can guarantee great results and an attractive finish. For over 30 years, the Capital Deck & Stair team has provided waterproofing services for homes and businesses throughout Southern California. All of our work is backed by a warranty and the same quick, professional service that our customers have come to rely on.

For more information and to receive a free estimate, call Capital Deck & Stair at (866)582-7481 or visit our pool deck waterproofing page.

Commercial Deck Requirements and Recommendations

restaurant tables with a view

Whether it’s an outdoor dining area or a simple entryway, adding a deck to your commercial property is a great way to add value and grow your business.

Unlike residential decks, however, commercial decks are subject to additional building requirements and regulations to help ensure people’s safety. As a result, designing and building a commercial deck is somewhat more involved than many might think, given the addition of minimal requirements for construction types, means of egress, and even lighting.

Thankfully, commercial deck requirements are fairly easy to navigate with help from the International Building Code. Read on to learn more about what’s involved and how you can build the perfect commercial deck that fulfills both code requirements and customer demands.

Commercial vs. Residential Decks

Though commercial and residential decks often look different, their biggest differences are the codes and regulations that determine their construction. Here, where the International Residential Code (IRC) regulates how residential decks and buildings are built, the International Building Code (IBC) regulates their commercial counterparts.

women working at cafe with face mask

While both the IRC and IBC share similar basic requirements for structural integrity and other engineering factors, the IBC adds additional measures to accommodate the extra capacity and foot traffic expected from commercial decks. Most of these measures are in place to make buildings and decks easier to exit in the event of an emergency.

Beyond the IBC and other baseline regulations, there are several other commercial deck requirements to consider when designing a commercial deck. In addition to layout, size, and aesthetic design, you may also want to consider waterproofing or other surface treatments, depending on your deck’s intended purpose. A hotel pool deck, for example, would probably require a waterproof coating for safety and water damage protection.

Commercial Deck Requirements

As mentioned in the previous section, most commercial deck requirements are regulated by the International Building Code (IBC). While the IBC’s complete requirements are beyond the scope of this guide, the commercial deck requirements covered here should serve as a solid baseline. Even so, you’ll likely want to employ a design professional well-versed in the IBC to help ensure that you meet these requirements.

Type of Construction

According to the IBC, the “type” of construction refers to the materials used to build commercial decks and structures. The IBC breaks down construction materials into five types, depending on their combustibility and the fire resistance of their assemblies:

  • Type I: Fire Resistive
  • Type II: Non-Combustible
  • Type III: Ordinary Construction
  • Type IV: Heavy Timber
  • Type V: Wood Frame Construction

Though it’s possible to use each type of material for commercial deck construction, the deck’s use, capacity, and means of egress (exits) will determine what materials can be used. For example, in Type I and Type II buildings built from fire-resistive and non-combustible materials, decks that don’t serve as a required exit can still be built from fire-treated wood with untreated wood hand railings.

outdoor dining deck

The details don’t stop there, however: Even for Type III, Type IV, and Type V decks built from combustible materials such as wood, their final assembly may still need to be fire-resistive in some way. In summary, you can build a commercial deck for nearly any material as long as it satisfies IBC requirements—all the more reason to check with a registered design professional before building.

Occupancy Type and Capacity

The occupancy type and capacity of your deck is another key factor in determining a commercial deck’s materials and design. While the IBC defines several occupancy types, those most related to commercial deck requirements include:

  • Business (B)
  • Assembly (A)
  • Mercantile (M)
  • Residential (R)

Many commercial decks fall under occupancy type A, which includes everything from restaurants to swimming pools and stadiums. Once you know your occupancy type and the intended capacity/load of your space, the IBC will define maximum floor area allowances per person, required strength, and other important design considerations.

Occupancy type and load also determine the number of exits required, where a deck might potentially serve as one. For occupancies over 50, for example, the deck must include exit signs for the deck exit and pathway lighting, among other considerations.

Means of Egress

Your deck’s “means of egress” refers to its exit(s), such as attached stairs, ramps, or buildings. How exits are designed is a crucial safety consideration, as an emergency situation may require large amounts of people to safely exit the deck via stairs or a ramp in as little time as possible.

dining tables at outdoor restaurant

The design and number of exits is ultimately determined by the size and occupancy of your deck; however, all decks must have at least one accessible exit that isn’t blocked by fences, gates, and tripping hazards. Exit walkways must also be slip-resistant, making waterproof coatings or non-slip surfaces crucial for deck construction.

Other Requirements and Considerations

The IBC outlines several other commercial deck requirements, including lighting and elevation changes, which both affect the design of your deck’s means of egress. For example, a deck with a high elevation may require a multi-part staircase or ramp, and all exits must be illuminated to a certain degree.

Note that the requirements outlined here fall outside the scope of aesthetic preferences, local HOA requirements, and so on. You may encounter additional commercial deck requirements during the design and construction process; however, you’ll probably want to consider a few other safety recommendations as well.

Deck Safety Recommendations

smiling people sitting at table

Though the IBC is a great baseline for ensuring safety, there’s always more you can do. Safety isn’t just important during an emergency; it’s also important for ensuring that your customers and employees are able to use the deck on a regular basis without risk of slipping, falling, and so on.

Deck finishing is one important way to guarantee your deck’s safety, appearance, and long-term durability. Regardless of the material, water infiltration poses the biggest threat to your deck’s safety and structural integrity, making waterproof coatings an essential part of deck construction.

For more information on our waterproof coating services, call the Capital Deck & Stair team at (888) 508-2966.

Designing the Ideal Pool Deck

luxury hotel pool and lounge chairs

The ideal pool deck should strike a perfect balance between form and function, serving as a visually stunning gathering place while also providing a safe surface for (wet) foot traffic. As a result, there’s a lot to consider when designing your pool deck. This short guide will explore a few of the most crucial considerations.

Size

The size of your pool deck is ultimately determined by the size of your pool. There’s no exact formula here, however: Just as you probably wouldn’t build a foot-wide path around your pool, you probably wouldn’t build a deck the size of a parking lot.

Ideally, your pool deck should surround most of the pool while also providing space for additional walkways (such as to and from the house) and any patio/sitting areas you’d like to have. Again, size is determined by both the size of your pool and, perhaps most importantly, how you’ll plan to enjoy it.

Appearance and Aesthetics

Just like with size, your pool will help determine the aesthetics of your deck. An above-ground pool, for example, will likely require a raised deck surrounding it, which will probably connect to a new or existing deck extending off your house. By contrast, an in-ground pool often utilizes a patio-like deck surface.

In any case, you have a lot of options when it comes to choosing the appearance of your pool deck. While you should try to match both the house and your landscaping, many pool decks can serve as an aesthetic foundation for your entire property. As a result, you should be careful to consider the appearance of your deck, knowing that it will easily become a focal point!

Materials and Durability

up close view of pool deck

While the materials you use are ultimately determined by the type of deck you’ll build, you still have plenty of options with each type. For example, an above-ground pool deck is almost always built from a wood (or synthetic) decking material, but this category ranges from natural wood to waterproof decking material.

By contrast, most patios and low-lying decks are built from stone, bricks, and other masonry materials. However, many homeowners are switching to waterproof decking materials for low decks due to their ease of installation and maintenance.

Weather Considerations

Local weather patterns and seasonal changes are extremely important to consider when designing your deck. While Californians enjoy great weather year-round, those in colder areas should consider cold- and weather-proof decking materials and designs. This consideration often rules out natural wood, which can shift and warp with changes in temperature and humidity.

In any case, however, rain-proofing and waterproof deck coatings are essential for protecting your investment from long-term damage.

Maintenance

Finally, the design of your deck should minimize maintenance over time—something which is mostly dependent on your choice of materials and surface treatments. Regardless of where you live, your pool deck will see a lot of water and moisture, whether it’s from the pool water or the weather.

To minimize your deck’s maintenance over time, use pool deck coatings and waterproof decking materials.

Using a Professional Service

Whether you’re using natural wood or a waterproof deck material, a waterproof deck coating can help improve the longevity and durability of your new pool deck. For more information on our deck coating services, call our team at (888) 508-2966.

How to Make Your Pool Safer

children jumping into pool

Your swimming pool is a great place to have fun and cool off—at least until someone slips or drowns, that is. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, over 300 American children under the age of five drown in swimming pools every year, with most victims usually only having been missing for less than five minutes.

Follow these tips to make sure that your pool remains a fun, safe place for everyone.

Have a pool barrier.

Pool barriers are, perhaps, the best investment for preventing pool-related deaths and injuries. Since most drownings occur when nobody else is around, being able to keep people out of the pool while there isn’t supervision can help ensure that nobody (especially children) goes into the pool area without supervision.

Install a pool alarm.

Even with a pool barrier, children and animals can still find a way into the pool area and, potentially, fall in unnoticed. In this case, it’s always good to have a backup—and a pool alarm is one great option. Pool alarms go off the moment someone enters the pool or pool area, which can help save precious minutes in the case of drowning.

Use a net or cover to close off your pool.

Nets and covers can also help keep people out of the pool and catch them if they fall in. Some covers can also help keep out animals, debris, and insects from entering the pool, which can help save on maintenance in the long run.

Unlike pool barriers and pool alarms, nets and covers completely prevent water access. This solution is often ideal for homes with pools integrated into landscaping, patios, and backyards.

Securely store pool-cleaning chemicals.

Even though they keep your pool clean, cleaning chemicals pose severe health hazards when they’re consumed or come into direct contact with the skin. While most adults know better, children and animals usually don’t.

Store and secure cleaning chemicals the same way you would any other toxic substance; keep chemicals in a locked container or room, preferably on a high shelf or surface out of reach from children.

Keep first-aid/rescue equipment nearby.

Unfortunately, pool injuries are bound to happen at some point. Be prepared by keeping a complete first-aid kit in the immediate pool area, which can help save precious time in the event of a major emergency.

For extra safety, consider enrolling in first aid and/or CPR training, and make sure both you and your family know how to properly apply bandages and other forms of first aid. It could save someone’s life!

Inspect your pool’s drain cover.

Improperly installed or poorly designed drain covers can cause undue suction and, in some cases, trap people underwater. While most modern drain covers are probably safe, make sure that your pool’s drain cover is rounded and free of cracks or missing screws.

Maintain your pool deck.

up close shot of pool deck

Maintaining your pool deck is essential for avoiding trips and falls. Apart from cleaning and basic maintenance, consider investing in pool deck waterproofing, waterproof deck coatings, and a pool deck drain to help keep walking surfaces dry and slip-proof. If you’re installing a new pool deck or replacing an old one, you may also want to consider a durable, waterproof concrete pool deck.

Waterproof Your Deck to Keep It Safe

In all cases, waterproofing is essential for pool deck safety. For more information on our pool deck waterproofing and pool deck resurfacing services, call our Los Angeles team at (888) 508-2966.

10 Steps to Prepare Your Pool for the Spring and Summer

With people spending more time at home, now is a great time to prepare your pool for the spring and summer. In some places, warmer summer-like weather is already here. Take this opportunity to consider pool deck waterproofing and other maintenance. Getting your pool ready will give you and your kids something to enjoy outdoors from the safety and comfort of your home.

Step 1: Clean the Water

It can be tempting to drain the water and start over, but you don’t have to. Draining the water is not only time-consuming but will make a huge impact on your water bill when you refill it later. Instead, get the right chemicals to clean the water to remove algae and other impurities.

dirty pool

Step 2: Clean the Pool

After the water is clear, you may notice algae and other things stuck to the sides and bottom. Use a scrub brush to remove stuck-on algae and other debris. For leaves and other floating debris, use a pool skimmer net. If you have a pool vacuum, you can also use that to help clean the pool.

Step 3: Change the Filters

If your pool water is dirty, make sure to change the filters several times as the pool cycles. You also want to check the filters and change them after cleaning the pool. Once the water is clear and the pool is clean, install a new set of filters.

Step 4:  Inspect and Clean the Filtration System

Check for water leaks and make sure leaves and other debris are not covering the pool filtration system. Have a pool maintenance professional lubricate the moving parts and components on the pool pump and filtration system.

Step 5: Clean the Pool Deck

You want to make sure your pool deck is clean before using your pool. Otherwise, if there is dirt, debris, or leaves, these things will just get tracked into the pool. Depending on the type of pool deck you have, you may be able to power-wash it down. If not, you can use a garden hose and scrub brush to wash it down.

Step 6: Perform Pool Deck Maintenance

Pool deck maintenance involves checking to ensure there are no cracks, chips, or other potential safety hazards. If the pool deck is looking a little worse for the wear, you can get pool deck waterproofing, which is resurfacing and restoring the appearance of pool deck surfaces.

Step 7: Top Off the Water

If you need to add water to the pool, do so after completing all the other pool preparation steps. Make sure to fill the pool up to the necessary level but don’t overfill it.

Step 8: Test and Balance the Chemicals

You need to test the water and check chemical levels to ensure they are correct. If not, add the required amount and retest until the water is balanced. Allow your pool filtration system to run for at least 24 hours after adding chemicals before retesting.

Step 9: Invest in a New Pool Cover

Using a pool cover not only slows the evaporation of water but also helps keep out dirt, dust, leaves, and other debris.

Step 10: Enjoy Your Pool

family in pool

Now that your pool is ready to use, you can start enjoying it for afternoon swims, relaxing on the water while reading your favorite book, and playtime with the kids.

For professional pool deck maintenance, pool deck waterproofing, resurfacing, repairs, and restoration in the Greater Los Angeles Area, please feel free to contact Capital Deck & Stair for waterproofing at (888) 508-2966 today!

How Can I Tell When My Pool Deck Needs Waterproofing or Resurfacing?

apartment swimming pool

Over time, the deck around your pool really takes a beating. With regular exposure to chlorinated pool water, direct sunlight, and inevitable spills, the surface can become cracked, chipped, stained, and worn in ways that could pose risks of harm. Here are a few red flags that will tell you when you need to have your deck resurfaced and sealed.

Discoloration and Staining

Even though hard surfaces like concrete are easy to clean, they’re not impervious to staining and discoloration over time. Concrete is still a porous material, which means that repeated, long-term exposure to food spills, rust, and other pigmented substances can cause lasting stains. Water spots can also create discoloration on your pool deck if there is significant leakage occurring beneath the concrete.

The ease of correcting discoloration depends on the severity but, in most cases, the stains can be easily erased with a professional pool deck resurfacing. Once they’re gone, proper sealing can help protect the renewed surface from future stains.

Cracks and Dents

cracked concrete

Shifting soil and impacts from heavy objects can cause large cracks and dents in your deck. These not only create tripping and injury hazards, they also serve as weak points from which more damage can spread.

If your pool deck is suffering from surface cracks, resurfacing can restore it by filling the cracks in the top layers of concrete. With any type of cracking, make sure you determine and address the underlying cause of the damage as well. If you don’t, you may be facing the same problems sooner than later.

Breakdown of the Deck Surface

Sometimes the damage isn’t quite as obvious as major cracks and dents. Seemingly small things like paint chipping and flaking of brittle surface concrete can be telltale signs that your sealing and waterproofing have begun to degrade. Have it resurfaced and re-sealed before it gets worse and becomes deep damage throughout the deck.

Damage to (and Leakage of) the Pool Itself

If your pool’s interior is breaking down or has begun to leak and drop in water level, there’s a good chance your deck is starting to go as well. In the case of pool leakage, especially, the red flag thrown by the pool is a sign that you need to head off deck damage as soon as possible.

Once you’ve addressed the underlying problems, have the deck fully resurfaced. Getting both issues taken care of at once is also a great way to make sure your deck and pool are equally well kept.

Get Professional Deck Resurfacing, Waterproofing, and Protective Coating from Capital Deck and Stair

At Capital Deck and Stair, we strive to be one of the best deck waterproofing companies in Los Angeles, CA. If you own a home in Southern California and are in need of pool deck waterproofing, or resurfacing, our experienced contractors and competitive service prices can give you the beautiful deck you want at a price you can afford.

Call us at (888) 508-2966 to learn more about how we can help you restore and protect your concrete pool deck today!

Four Deck Tips for Selling Your Property

So the time has come to sell your property and you’re making all sorts of improvements to make it look better and hopefully fetch a higher price from potential buyers. However, far too many home or commercial property owners ignore something that plays a huge role in their property’s appeal and value: their deck!

Whether you have a pool deck, outdoor patio deck, or balcony, ignoring your deck can make it a real eyesore, and something that will send many buyers running at the mere sight of it. An unattended deck not only brings down the overall aesthetic appeal of your property, but will quickly bring up questions of how durable the deck is, whether or not it has water damage, and whether or not you’ve even bothered to take care of it.

Here are four valuable and helpful tips that can help you make your deck look good and more appealing to buyers, and may even help you fetch a better price for your property!

Pressure Washer

What’s one thing you can do that will significantly improve the look of your deck and make it more appealing to buyers? Simple: wash it! Get the pressure washer out and give it a thorough blasting to remove dust dirt, and even some stains that have sat on your deck for months or even years. You’ll be surprised at just how good your deck can look again after a good cleaning. If you don’t own a pressure washer, you can rent one from your local home improvement warehouse. You can use your garden hose with a spray nozzle attached, but this isn’t usually as effective at removing the tougher spots.

Fresh Paint

If your deck seems to be fading and losing some of its vibrant, eye-catching appeal, a new coat of paint may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Fresh paint can do wonders for rejuvenating an old deck, so long as the structure is still in good condition. And the best part: paint is pretty inexpensive, making this one of the most cost-effective ways of restoring your deck and making appealing to buyers again.

Re-Seal

Buyers will be able to tell when your deck isn’t water-tight or has sustained some pretty serious damage as a result of water over the years. Not only does this look bad, but more often than not it’ll send them running away quickly. Re-sealing your deck with a high-quality waterproofing solution can stop the damage from forming and protect your deck for at least the next few years, giving your buyers peace of mind of knowing they’ll have considerable time before having to worry about the first major service.

Replace Cracked Boards or Pavers

Finally, nobody likes seeing huge cracks in a deck. Land-shifting, sun damage, and plenty of other things can cause the surface of your deck to develop unsightly cracks and gashes that quickly diminish much of the appeal your deck might have otherwise. Fixing these cracks by replacing the boards, pavers, or other materials that have them can get rid of this worry! However, for concrete, stone, or other types of decks, this may not be the most ideal option. Instead you may wish to consider sealing the crack itself, which a Los Angeles deck waterproofing company can help you with.

Let Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing help you prep your deck to sell with your property. Contact us by dialing (888)-508-2966  to request an estimate.

Pool Deck FAQs

Southern California is the land of swimming pools, and that means pool decks are just as common. Whether you have a pool of your own or you’re considering making this addition to your property and want to know more about the responsibility it entails, there are some things you need to know about pool decks and the care they require. Pool decks may not be as much work as the pools they surround, but ignoring their condition could have severely detrimental consequences for your pool and your property as well as the deck itself.

To help you better understand pool decks, here are the answers to some of the most commonly-asked questions about them.

Do I Have to Seal My Pool Deck?

The benefits of doing this truly cannot be understated. Sealing your deck will not only help it last longer and stand up to more wear and tear, but it will also help you repel stains and even keep colors brighter and longer-lasting without constant care and maintenance. This goes for all materials, including concrete, brick, stone, wood, and much more.

What Materials Last the Longest?

An important characteristic of a good pool deck is durability, even under heavy use and major stress from the environment, such as blistering summer heat. Concrete or other solid materials tend to be the best-suited for Southern California, but they can be more expensive than a cheaper material like wood or composite. Bear in mind that the investment now may pay off later when you don’t have to spend as much time and money maintaining a concrete, stone, or other solid-material deck than you would with another type.

What’s the Best Way to Clean My Deck?

Over time, stains happen. Whether it’s furniture left in one spot for months (or even years) at a time, leaves or dirt accumulating, or an oily substance being spilled, cleaning your deck can be a hassle. Pressure washing is a good way to really get at these tough stains, but be careful about this when you have a softer deck material. Algae or mildew can also accumulate in shady and often-damp areas—take care of this with a bleaching agent, or even baking soda if you’d prefer a more natural remedy.

Should I Use Pavers?

Pavers are a budget-friendly way of being able to get a harder, more durable deck surface without paying the cost they usually entail. Pavers are pieces of clay (like brick) or stone that are cut into uniform sizes and can be laid down in a pattern that composes your patio. While these can give you a good look, they’re prone to water intrusion and all sorts of issues beneath. While they’re generally easy to maintain, they can develop problems like mold or ants beneath them so carefully consider the maintenance needs before choosing them.

How Can I Keep My Deck Beautiful?

There are a few things you can do that prevent your deck from becoming worn and dirty. First, keep metal furniture like chairs and tables off your pool deck, or insulate the bottoms with rubber or plastic feet to prevent staining. Second, regularly clean your deck with a hose or pressure washer and a leaf blower to keep stains, dirt, and dust away. Finally, consider covering the frequently-traveled areas of your deck, such as near doorways or pool stairs with rubber mats to prevent wear and tear. Each of these steps can help keep stains at bay, minimize your maintenance responsibilities, and keep your deck looking beautiful for many years to come.

Do you need your pool deck stained or sealed? Trust the Los Angeles deck waterproofing experts from Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing! Call us at (888) 508-2966 to receive a free quote .