Concrete Pool Decking
Poured concrete pool decking offers a range of affordable, entry-level options. Concrete decking is also a durable choice, though cracks are inevitable. Concrete decking finishes and upgrades include:
- Brushed or broom-swept concrete. The simplest decking solution involves pouring large sections of concrete and sweeping it with a broom as it dries. This creates a non-slip texture but may feel rough under bare feet. Pouring in smaller sections, or sawing larger sections to leave joints in-between, can help prevent cracking. Expect to pay between $5 and $10 per square foot, depending on where you live and on material availability.
- Colored concrete. Brushed concrete pool decking can be upgraded by adding color to the wet concrete. This provides a custom look that’s more attractive than plain gray concrete, without adding much to your bottom line. One drawback of colored concrete: If a section needs to be replaced, you’re unlikely to match the original color.
- Stamped concrete. One of the most popular and attractive options for concrete pool and patio decking, stamped concrete is poured in slabs, then imprinted with large stamps to form uniform or semi-uniform patterns. The concrete is colored and the stamps create different effects, similar to irregular stone slabs, bricks, pavers, tile or wood. Sealant can make stamped concrete more slippy than brushed concrete. Stamped concrete costs from $12 to $20 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the design and how many colors are used.
- Textured concrete. The middle ground between brushed and stamped concrete, textured concrete is poured in smaller sections and incised with joints and lines, by hand or with a saw. It costs $8 to $10 per square foot.
