How to Resurface a Concrete Pool Deck

Concrete decks need occasional attention to look good.

Concrete pool decks need to be resurfaced every now and then when they begin to deteriorate and wear down. Water absorption and weathering are the two main causes of deterioration. Resurfacing involves removing the top layer of concrete and placing a new layer of concrete over it. Other forms of resurfacing involve a top layer of stone being put down, but cleaning and replacing the concrete layer is best.

Things You'll Need

• Broom
• Hose
• 1 gallon of acid
• 1 gallon of water
• Metal bucket
• Metal dowel
• Metal watering can
• Soft-bristled brush
• Portland cement
• White sand
• Wheelbarrow
• Trowel
• Wood float

Instructions

1. Sweep debris and dirt off of the deck's surface with a broom. Hose the surface down to remove as much loose dirt as possible.

2. Combine the acid and water in a metal bucket, and stir with the dowel. Make sure none of your skin is exposed. Pour the acid into the water. If a splash occurs, the water will splatter upward and the acid will not. Diluting the acid will help prevent acid burns on the skin even if it does splatter.

3. Pour the mixture into the watering can, and being sprinkling it onto the deck. Let it stand on the concrete for about 20 minutes so that it can work its way into the concrete and remove the top layer.

4. Scrub the surface with a soft-bristled brush to speed the process.

5. Rinse the surface down, and then mix the concrete for the resurfacing layer. The combination should be three parts Portland cement, two parts sand and one part water. Mix it in the wheelbarrow bucket and use the dowel or your hands with your gloves on.

6. Pour the cement onto the surface in small sections. Spread it across the surface with the trowel to make it even and smooth. Repeat this for each section until the resurfacing is complete. Use the wood float to go over each area evenly and blend them into each other.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear rubber gloves, rubber boots and safety goggles.

References

• Concrete Network: Resurfacing Pool Decks
• Swimming Pool Store: Swimming Pool Resurfacing