Congratulations! You made it through another tumultuous Kansas City winter. And even though you still have to go through the ups and downs of spring (just remember April showers bring May flowers), summer is just around the corner. That means it’s time to find the right resurfacing option for pool decks in Kansas City so that your deck can look shiny and new.
But wait… Where do I start? Before you spend oodles of cash on expensive stones and pavers, we have another choice that stands above the rest—concrete.
Believe it or not, concrete isn’t just that gray, boring stuff in your garage. Our experts at Big Red Decorative Concrete have seen a beautiful concrete overlay transform a basic pool into a suburban oasis. Plus, with various designs and color options, you can really make it your own!
Want to learn more? Keep reading about how concrete is the best resurfacing option for pool decks in Kansas City.
What is a concrete overlay?
When you decide on a concrete overlay for your pool deck, you aren’t replacing your pool deck. Instead, you’re applying a new surface over your deck to change the look and feel. Simply speaking, a concrete overlay is a thin, decorative coating that goes over concrete pool decks in Kansas City.
So what’s the difference between traditional concrete and a decorative coating?
Well, traditional concrete is a blend of cement, sand, aggregate and water. As you probably know, those components make a substance that is hard and durable once it’s dry, though it’s not necessarily the most exciting thing to look at.
On the other hand, decorative concrete takes traditional concrete to the next level. By adding resin (for increased adhesion and performance) and different color options, a well-applied concrete overlay can mimic the appearance of hardwood, stone, tile, and more!
Here’s what it all means:
Whenever your concrete pool deck becomes cracked, pitted, or discolored, you don’t have to replace the entire deck. Just imagine the hassle that comes along with a full replacement—breaking up the concrete, hauling it out, pouring in new concrete—the process takes a while. Instead, when you decide to resurface your deck, a great concrete professional will know how to work with your current deck (even cracks!) to ensure it flows seamlessly with your home and the rest of your backyard.
How does the decorative concrete overlay process work?
We understand that you don’t want to spend the entire summer waiting to perfect your pool deck. Fortunately, a concrete overlay makes resurfacing easy and simple for pool decks in Kansas City. In fact, it’s so easy, you may be tempted to do it yourself, but be cautious—it’s definitely a process that’s best left to professionals.
In general, the process requires three steps from start to finish:
Step One: Preparation
Before getting started, a professional will prep the area to make sure the concrete overlay will adhere correctly. This includes any repairs, such filling in holes and cleaning the deck. A professional will also etch or grind the deck to make the concrete porous. Finally, primer application ensures the deck is primed and ready to go for step number two.
Step Two: Application
Based on your color choice (at Big Red we have 16!), a professional will then mix the product for the best results. Application also depends on the look you’re going for. Your professional may choose to trowel, spray, or roll on the concrete overlay. Extra designs and engravings require tools such as hand trowels, stamps, rakes, or whatever tool will work best for your goals.
Step Three: Protection
The last step is arguably the most important. Sealing the overlay while it’s curing (drying) is key for a long-lasting concrete pool deck overlay. It also protects your deck while increasing strength and resisting stains. Make sure you let your decorative concrete coating dry for at least 24 hours before you start walking on it.
Plus, you won’t have to wait weeks for your upgraded deck. The process only takes about 2 to 4 days, then you can enjoy all the benefits of a custom-designed pool deck!
Benefits of concrete overlays for pool decks in Kansas City
We may be a little biased about concrete, but if you saw the amazing benefits as often as we do, you’d feel the same way. Concrete overlays allow you to have a spectacular pool deck without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s truly a creative mind’s dream. Whatever you can think of, concrete can most likely get it done.
Here are just a few benefits that come along with decorative concrete for pool decks in Kansas City.
Long lasting. The fact is, concrete simply lasts longer than a lot of other materials. Even when cracks surface, they’re easy to fill in or incorporate into your overlay design. If you take care of your deck, you can expect it to last for decades without extreme touch ups.
Versatile. With stamping and other design methods, you can have a lot of fun with the look of your pool deck. Want to add swirls? Go ahead. Have a family crest? Add that too. Plus, with the variety of color options available, you can ensure your new deck works with your home and whatever “vibe” you’re going for.
Easy maintenance: Let’s face it—no one wants to spend more time taking care of their pool deck than actually enjoying it. Great news! A concrete coating takes the dread away from regular maintenance. Thanks to a sealant, your deck will naturally be protected from wear and tear.
Decorative concrete coating versus pavers
When building a pool deck, many people first think of pavers, which are stones, tiles, bricks, or other stone-like features. But even though pavers give decks a beautiful look, they’re often too expensive for many people. Plus, many people don’t realize that decorative concrete overlays can achieve the same look for less. In fact, compared to traditional concrete slabs, pavers generally cost 10 to 15% more!
First, let’s talk about weeds. No matter how much we hate them, they always seem to pop up. With pavers, weeds can grow in between the spaces. Fortunately, a concrete coating doesn’t actually have spaces, even though it can mimic the appearance. That means: no weeds, no problems.
Second, pavers take a lot of preparation and intensive labor. Because of this, a professional tends to charge more for the work it takes to lay the pavers down. Pavers also take about five days to complete, while a concrete coating for your pool deck will take around 2 to 4 days.
Concrete overlays can come in different colors, allowing you to mix and match and truly make your deck your own. On the other hand, pavers don’t come with the same range or versatility. Plus, there could even be unwanted color variation between the stones, which may throw off your desired outcome.
At the end of the day, we’ve found that many people at first think pavers are the best option for their pool decks in Kansas City, but in reality, they haven’t done a lot of research on what’s available. When looking at decorative concrete, you’ll be surprised at how much it can do. Even your friends and family will be surprised you have concrete instead of pavers!
Types of concrete overlays for pool decks in Kansas City
At Big Red Decorative Concrete, we have a variety of overlay options to resurface pool decks in Kansas City and the surrounding metro area. We always work with our customers to create the perfect deck for them and their home (we even do commercial pool decks too!).
Sundek Classic Texture
The Sundek Classic Texture (knockdown) is one of our most popular overlays for commercial and residential pool decks. This slip-resistant and easy-to-maintain option keeps your deck cool and offers years of comfort with very little maintenance.
Sundek Tuscan Wood Plank and Flagstone Overlay
If you really want to take your design to the next level, then the Sundek Tuscan Wood Plank and Flagstone Overlay is your way to go. All you have to do is give us your inspiration piece (think: flagstone, tile, wood, stone, etc.), then we’ll recreate it for you with the power of concrete.
Sundek Sunstamp Overlay
There’s nothing wrong with having expensive taste, especially when a concrete overlay can replicate the look of luxury stones such as limestone, ashlar slate, or limestone for a fraction of the cost. Plus, if we don’t have a stamp you’re looking for, we’ll rent it out for you!
Discover the best resurfacing option for pool decks in Kansas City at Big Red Decorative Concrete
When it comes to pool decks in Kansas City, don’t you want to give your deck the best treatment possible? At Big Red Decorative Concrete, we serve residential homes and businesses in the Kansas City metro area on both sides of the state line, and our results speak for themselves!
Our wide variety of concrete pool deck coating options range in color and design and are perfect for any budget. We can even add your logo or a family crest to really make them your own!
From start to finish, we pride ourselves on having a seamless customer service experience, so all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy your upgraded pool deck.