Does your concrete pool deck look dull, cracked, or just plain boring? Imagine stepping out onto a vibrant, cool surface that looks brand new. That dream is totally possible with the right pool deck paint! But here’s the tough part: choosing the perfect paint for concrete around a pool can feel like a maze. You worry about slipping when it’s wet, fading under the hot sun, and peeling after just one summer season. Nobody wants to repaint their deck every year!
This guide cuts through all the confusion. We will show you exactly what features matter most, from slip resistance to UV protection. By the end of this post, you will know the best paint types for your specific needs and budget. Get ready to transform your tired pool area into the backyard oasis you always wanted. Let’s dive into the best pool deck paint options for your concrete!
Top Pool Deck Paint For Concrete Recommendations
- USED AT THEME PARKS: Our revolutionary pool and deck product is the coating-of-choice for water theme parks, resorts, national landmarks, and now residential swimming pools. We offer commercial functionality to you at an affordable price…because it works!
- COMFORTABLE FEET: If the walk to your pool is more like a sprint, COOL is for you! Our revolutionary coating absorbs the heat and transfers it directly into the soil below to keeping your feet comfortable and your pool area cooler. Our pool deck coating seals your concrete and drops the temperature by up to 38%.
- NO SLIPPERY SURFACES: If a safe pool area is a top priority for you, COOL is the perfect solution for a safe, skid-resistant surface around your swimming pool or hot tub. Meets ADA safety requirements for non-slip surfaces – even when it’s wet!
- REPAIRS CONCRETE & STAYS CLEANER: COOL’s specialized coating bonds with concrete at a molecular level, filling in cracks and permanently sealing them. The smooth, sealed surface makes it difficult for dirt to hide – simply clean the concrete with soap and water. COOL stands up to pressure washing and doesn’t peel or chip. (Note: Apply Encore’s SealBack Nano-Acrylic Sealer for extra protection.)
- EASY TO USE—Simply mix one gallon of acrylic paint (your color choice; the end product will be very close to the color of the paint you mix in) into the kit and apply the coating with an ordinary 3/8″, 1/2″, or 3/4″ nap paint roller to a clean, prepared surface. The coating dries within 30 minutes. Apply a second coat, followed by a clear sealer.
- Complete No Heat DIY Pool Kit: Cool is a One-Of-A-Kind Pool Deck Coating Made to Repair & Resurface Your Concrete Pool Deck, While Reducing Heat Build-Up More Than 38% | Compared to Unfinished Heat Absorbing Concrete Patios, Pools, & Surface Paints
- Step 1 Effective Cleaner: TripleCrown is a Water-Based, Eco-Friendly Surface Cleaner That Cleans & Etches Concrete in 2 Simple Steps | Spray Concrete, Add to Pressure Washer, Wash Away Aggressive Algae, Dirt , Stains to Prep Your Cool Deck Paint Project
- Step 2 Cool Deck Paint: Add 1-Gallon of Desired Color Semi-Gloss Acrylic or Latex Paint, Pour Carefully into 5-Gallon Heat Resistant Cool Deck Paint, Mix Together Vigorously Application Covers Up To 200 Sq Ft. (2 Coats) Total Coverage Depends on Condition of Surface | Additional Cool Paint Available Purchased Separately
- Step 3 Rejuvenating Sealer: SealBack is a Low-VOC Clear Acrylic Sealer, Formulated with Patented Proprietary Blend of Nano-Particles that React with Cool Pool Paint to Resurface Exterior Hairline Cracks & Scratches In Your Painted Surface
- Kit Coverage up to 200 feet: Cool Bundle Includes (1) Cool Pool Deck 5-Gallon Paint Bucket, (1) 1-Gallon TripleCrown Concrete Cleaner & Prep, (1) Half Gallon SealBack Self-Cleaning Nano-Particle Resurface & Sealer - Instructions & Easy Project Steps Included
- Includes 1 gallon.
- Approximately 90 - 125 square feet per gallon
- Results cannot be guaranteed. Digital screens may not show color accurately.
- Transformative Design: Revitalizes sprayed, patterned, or bare concrete with stylish, neutral hues that complement your backyard.
- Durable Protection: Shields concrete surfaces from wear, weather damage, and saltwater corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Safety First: Features a non-slip acrylic formula, enhancing safety for walking and sunbathing on pool decks and patios.
- Optimal Application: Requires two coats for initial use, covering approximately 150 - 165 sq ft per gallon, depending on surface porosity.
- Easy Maintenance: Offers a durable finish that’s easy to clean with a garden hose, with tougher stains requiring only a light brush.
- Acrylic Pool Paint: REHOUPTY Concrete Pool Paint is made from a water-based resin that dries quickly after application and creates an aesthetically pleasing water-resistant finish on concrete pools, plaster or masonry pools and metal pools, reducing the risk of pool leaks
- High Durability Pool Coating: With high strength adhesion, pool deck paint can be firmly attached to concrete pool, deck, or masonry surface, anti-abrasion, anti-impact, resisting long-term pool water immersion, extending the service life of the swimming pool
- Easy-to-apply Fiberglass Pool Paint: No specialized tools required, easy and efficient application process. 13.2LBS / 6KG package pool deck paint covers approximately 270sq. ft. (25㎡) in a single application to meet the needs of different pool areas
- Widely Used Pool Rock Paint: REHOUPTY pool rock paint is a ideal choice for pool renovation and new construction, suitable for underground and above ground concrete pools, water parks, fiberglass pool, water tanks and other scenarios
- Unique Ocean Blue Pool Paint: The blue paint has a saturated and long-lasting color that won't fade even when exposed to the sun for long periods of time, making it ideal for use in outdoor pools
- SWIMMING POOL PAINT: Get a beautiful tile-like finish on your concrete, plaster, or masonry surfaces with Dyco Waterborne Acrylic Pool Paint.
- FINISH YOUR SPACE: Dyco Pool Paint is perfect for putting the finishing touch on your concrete pool, deck, or masonry surface.
- LONG-LASTING FINISH: This durable paint for pools is resistant to harsh UV rays, fading, peeling, cracking, staining, water, salt and chemicals. You can even use it to seal hairline cracks.
- EASY TO APPLY: This waterborne acrylic paint is also easy to apply. Follow all directions on label for application.
- INDUSTRY EXPERTS: Founded in 1967, Dyco developed the first ever white mobile home roof coating and has been making one-of-a-kind coatings ever since. Today, we're a leader in the paint and specialty coatings industry.
- Durable Epoxy Acrylic Formula: Resists hot tire pickup, scuffing, cracking, peeling, and fading. KILZ 1-Part Epoxy Floor Paint delivers long-lasting protection and a satin finish that looks great on concrete surfaces.
- Interior & Exterior Use: Designed for use on both indoor and outdoor horizontal surfaces. Ideal as concrete paint for basements, garage floors, and as an exterior paint for porches, driveways, and pool decks.
- Versatile Surface Application: Use on properly prepared porous concrete, masonry, stone, and brick. Not for vertical surfaces or areas exposed to hydrostatic pressure or forklift traffic. Residential use only.
- Low-VOC, Easy Application: This water-based interior/exterior paint applies easily with a roller or brush and cleans up with soap and water. Covers 300–400 sq. ft. per gallon on smooth surfaces, 200–300 on rough.
- Trusted KILZ Performance: KILZ has been a leader in surface coatings for over 50 years. Backed by a brand known for quality and innovation in paint and primer solutions for every part of your home.
- Durable Epoxy Acrylic Formula: Resists hot tire pickup, scuffing, cracking, peeling, and fading. KILZ 1-Part Epoxy Floor Paint delivers long-lasting protection and a satin finish that looks great on concrete surfaces.
- Interior & Exterior Use: Designed for use on both indoor and outdoor horizontal surfaces. Ideal as concrete paint for basements, garage floors, and as an exterior paint for porches, driveways, and pool decks.
- Versatile Surface Application: Use on properly prepared porous concrete, masonry, stone, and brick. Not for vertical surfaces or areas exposed to hydrostatic pressure or forklift traffic. Residential use only.
- Low-VOC, Easy Application: This water-based interior/exterior paint applies easily with a roller or brush and cleans up with soap and water. Covers 300–400 sq. ft. per gallon on smooth surfaces, 200–300 on rough.
- Trusted KILZ Performance: KILZ has been a leader in surface coatings for over 50 years. Backed by a brand known for quality and innovation in paint and primer solutions for every part of your home.
Choosing the Best Pool Deck Paint for Concrete: Your Complete Buying Guide
Your pool deck sees a lot of action. Sun, water, and foot traffic can make concrete look dull and worn. Good pool deck paint protects your concrete and makes your pool area look fantastic. This guide helps you pick the right paint for a long-lasting, beautiful finish.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for pool deck paint, certain features make a big difference in performance and appearance.
1. Slip Resistance (Crucial for Safety)
- Look for paints labeled as “non-skid” or “anti-slip.”
- These paints often contain fine aggregates (tiny bits of rough material) mixed in. This grit gives your wet feet traction, preventing slips and falls.
- Test a small area if possible, or read reviews about how slippery the dry paint feels.
2. Durability and UV Resistance
- Pool decks face harsh sunlight. Choose paints with high UV resistance. This stops the color from fading quickly.
- The paint must resist hot temperatures without bubbling or peeling.
- It should handle chlorine splashes without breaking down.
3. Water Resistance and Breathability
- The coating must seal the concrete against water penetration.
- However, the paint should also be “breathable.” This means it allows trapped moisture vapor underneath the concrete to escape. If moisture cannot escape, the paint will bubble up and peel off.
Important Materials: What’s in the Can?
The material base determines how the paint performs, how easy it is to apply, and how long it lasts.
Acrylic Paints
- These are the most common and budget-friendly option.
- They clean up easily with water and dry fast.
- Good quality 100% acrylic formulas offer decent protection, but they might not last as long as epoxy or urethane coatings in very high-traffic areas.
Epoxy Coatings
- Epoxies create a very hard, thick shell over the concrete.
- They offer excellent resistance to chemicals and abrasion.
- Be aware that standard epoxy can yellow or degrade when constantly exposed to direct, intense sunlight (UV rays). Look for UV-stable or aliphatic epoxy formulas if you choose this route.
Urethane/Polyurethane Coatings
- These coatings are often applied over an epoxy base coat for maximum protection.
- They offer superior flexibility and outstanding resistance to abrasion and UV damage. They are usually the top choice for the longest lifespan, though they cost more.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your final finish depends heavily on preparation and application.
Factors that Improve Quality:
- Proper Surface Prep: You must clean the concrete thoroughly. Remove all dirt, oil, and existing paint flakes. Many professionals recommend power washing followed by an acid etch or using a strong degreaser.
- Moisture Testing: Ensure the concrete is dry before painting. A moisture meter helps check this. Painting wet concrete guarantees failure.
- Correct Primer Use: Using the manufacturer’s recommended primer seals the concrete and helps the topcoat stick firmly.
Factors that Reduce Quality:
- Painting in Extreme Temperatures: Applying paint when it is too cold or too hot, or when humidity is very high, prevents proper curing. Always check the temperature range listed on the can.
- Thin Coats: Applying paint too thinly reduces its protective qualities and shortens its lifespan. Follow the recommended spread rate.
- Ignoring Etching/Cleaning: If the concrete surface is too smooth or dirty, the paint will not bond properly. It will peel off like a sticker.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use your pool area when selecting your paint.
Residential Backyard Pools:
For most homeowners, a high-quality 100% acrylic, non-skid coating provides the best balance of cost, ease of application, and appearance retention for several years.
High-Traffic Commercial Decks:
Hotels or community pools need maximum protection. A two-part epoxy or urethane system is often necessary here because these surfaces endure constant foot traffic and chemical exposure.
Aesthetics:
Many paints come in solid colors, but textured coatings can mimic the look of natural stone or stucco. Decide if you want a smooth finish or a rougher, more decorative texture.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pool Deck Paint
Q: How long does pool deck paint usually last?
A: A well-applied acrylic coating might last 3 to 5 years. A premium two-part epoxy or urethane coating can last 7 to 10 years or more.
Q: Can I paint over old, peeling paint?
A: No, you must scrape or grind off all loose, peeling paint first. If you paint over it, the new paint will peel right along with the old layer.
Q: How long must the deck cure before I can fill the pool?
A: Curing times vary by product and weather. Most paints require 3 to 7 days before they can handle water splashing or filling the pool. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely.
Q: Do I need a primer for concrete pool decks?
A: Yes, using the recommended primer is strongly suggested. Primer seals the porous concrete, helps the topcoat stick better, and prevents the topcoat from soaking in unevenly.
Q: What is the easiest way to clean a painted pool deck?
A: Use mild soap and water with a soft brush or mop. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive pads, as these damage the surface coating.
Q: Will the paint get too hot for bare feet?
A: All dark-colored coatings absorb more heat than natural concrete. Choosing lighter colors helps keep the deck cooler. Non-skid additives can slightly increase surface temperature.
Q: Can I apply pool deck paint with a roller?
A: Yes, rollers are the standard tool for large areas. Use a high-quality, thick nap roller designed for textured coatings.
Q: Does paint hide cracks in the concrete?
A: Paint covers very fine hairline cracks, but it does not fix structural damage. Large cracks need repair with a concrete patching compound *before* you paint.
Q: Is pool deck paint slippery when wet?
A: Only if you buy a paint that does not have anti-skid additives included. Always choose a product specifically labeled as “non-skid” or “slip-resistant.”
Q: Should I use a solid color or a semi-transparent stain?
A: Solid colors hide imperfections better and offer the best UV protection. Semi-transparent stains allow the natural look of the concrete to show through but offer less protection.