Expert Advice for Maintaining Your Resurfaced Pool Deck in Lakeland

After investing in pool deck resurfacing, keeping your outdoor space in pristine condition is essential to maximize the durability, safety, and beauty of your investment. Lakeland’s warm, humid climate, along with frequent pool use, can take a toll on outdoor surfaces, making regular maintenance crucial. Fortunately, with proper care, a resurfaced pool deck can last for years while remaining visually appealing and functional.

In this guide, we’ll share expert advice on how to maintain your resurfaced pool deck in Lakeland, ensuring it stays in great condition for as long as possible.

1. Keep the Surface Clean

Regular cleaning is the cornerstone of maintaining any resurfaced pool deck. Dirt, leaves, algae, and other debris can accumulate over time, leading to discoloration, staining, and even slippery surfaces.

Best Practices:

• Sweep Regularly: Use a broom or leaf blower to clear leaves, dirt, and debris off the surface at least once a week, especially during the fall when leaves are more likely to accumulate.

• Wash Monthly: Use a garden hose or power washer to wash away any grime or algae buildup. Be cautious when using a power washer—adjust the pressure to avoid damaging the finish.

• Tackle Stains Early: For stubborn stains, use a mild detergent mixed with water and a soft brush to scrub away the spot. Avoid harsh chemicals that may erode or discolor the resurfaced surface.

By keeping your deck free of dirt and buildup, you’ll maintain its vibrant color and prevent premature wear.

2. Rinse Off Pool Chemicals

One of the most significant threats to the longevity of your resurfaced pool deck is the chemicals used in pool water, particularly chlorine. Over time, pool chemicals can degrade the surface, causing discoloration and weakening the integrity of the material.

Best Practices:

• Rinse After Use: After using the pool, especially on hot days when water splashes are more likely, rinse off the pool deck to remove any chemical residue.

• Clean Spills Promptly: If any pool maintenance products or chemicals spill onto the deck, clean them up immediately using water and a mild soap solution to avoid damage.

Regularly rinsing the surface will help preserve its appearance and structural integrity, especially in areas like Lakeland where pool use is frequent due to the warm climate.

3. Seal Your Pool Deck Regularly

Sealing is a vital step in protecting your resurfaced pool deck from weathering, UV rays, and general wear. Sealing creates a protective barrier that helps prevent water penetration, cracking, and fading.

Best Practices:

• Follow the Contractor’s Recommendations: After resurfacing, your contractor should advise how soon to seal the deck. Typically, a new resurfaced deck will need sealing after the curing process is complete, which could range from several weeks to a few months.

• Reseal Every 1-3 Years: Depending on the material used for your pool deck resurfacing Lakeland, resealing every one to three years is recommended. In areas like Lakeland, where UV rays are intense, more frequent resealing may be necessary to prevent fading and wear.

• Choose the Right Sealer: Use a high-quality, UV-resistant sealant designed for the specific resurfacing material. For instance, stamped concrete or acrylic finishes may require different types of sealers than pebble or stone finishes.

Regular sealing will protect the deck from damage while maintaining the vibrant color and texture of the finish.

4. Prevent and Repair Minor Damage Early

Minor damage, such as cracks, chips, or small stains, may occur over time, especially if the pool deck endures heavy use or harsh weather conditions. Addressing these issues early will prevent them from escalating into more significant problems.

Best Practices:

• Inspect Regularly: Make it a habit to inspect your pool deck for any signs of damage at least once a month. Look for small cracks, crumbling areas, or spots where the finish may be fading.

• Fill Small Cracks: If you notice any small cracks, fill them with an appropriate concrete or epoxy filler to prevent water from seeping in and causing further damage.

• Touch-Up Stains: For minor stains or discoloration, use a patching product or touch-up paint designed for your pool deck's resurfacing material.

By addressing minor damage promptly, you’ll extend the life of your pool deck and avoid costly repairs down the road.

5. Prevent Pool Deck Erosion

Erosion, caused by water runoff, can be a significant problem for pool decks, particularly in rainy areas like Lakeland. Poor drainage or water pooling can damage the surface, leading to cracks, staining, and instability in the foundation of the deck.

Best Practices:

• Ensure Proper Drainage: Ensure your pool deck is designed with proper drainage. Water should flow away from the deck and pool, not pool up or drain toward your home. If you notice water accumulating in certain areas, address the issue by adjusting the slope of the deck or installing drainage solutions.

• Use a Pool Cover: When the pool is not in use, especially during heavy rain seasons, use a pool cover to minimize water splashing onto the deck and prevent unnecessary runoff from eroding the surface.

• Monitor Landscaping: Check nearby landscaping to ensure that water runoff from garden beds or irrigation systems doesn’t flow onto your pool deck.

Proper drainage and preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of erosion and the damage it can cause to your resurfaced deck.

6. Mind the Furniture and Heavy Objects

Poolside furniture, grills, and heavy objects can cause scratches, dents, and wear on your pool deck, particularly if they’re moved around frequently or left in one spot for too long.

Best Practices:

• Use Furniture Pads: Place rubber or felt pads under the legs of chairs, tables, and other poolside furniture to prevent them from scratching or damaging the resurfaced finish.

• Move Objects Carefully: When moving furniture or heavy objects, lift rather than drag them across the surface. This helps prevent gouging or scratches.

• Avoid Overloading: Be mindful of how much weight you place on specific areas of the deck, particularly near the edges or any areas prone to cracking.

Taking care of how you use your pool deck will preserve its finish and ensure that it looks great for years.

7. Protect from UV Damage

Lakeland’s year-round sunshine is great for poolside relaxation, but prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause your resurfaced pool deck to fade or deteriorate over time.

Best Practices:

• Apply UV-Resistant Sealer: Use a high-quality, UV-resistant sealer to protect your deck from the sun’s harmful rays.

• Use Shade Solutions: Consider installing shade options such as umbrellas, pergolas, or awnings to provide relief from direct sunlight and reduce UV exposure to your pool deck surface.

• Move Pool Accessories: Shift pool toys, floatation devices, and other accessories around regularly to avoid leaving long-term sun exposure marks on the deck.

Protecting your pool deck from excessive UV exposure will help maintain its color and structural integrity.

8. Winterize When Necessary

Although Lakeland experiences mild winters, occasional cold snaps can still impact your pool deck. Taking preventative measures to winterize your pool deck during cooler months will protect it from potential damage caused by cold temperatures or frost.

Best Practices:

• Keep the Deck Clean and Dry: During the winter, ensure your pool deck stays clean and dry to prevent moisture from seeping into cracks, which could expand and worsen when temperatures drop.

• Cover the Pool: Use a pool cover during the off-season to protect the deck from debris and minimize water splashing onto the surface.

• Inspect for Damage After Winter: Once warmer weather returns, inspect your deck for any signs of damage caused by winter conditions and address them promptly.

Conclusion

Maintaining a resurfaced pool deck in Lakeland requires a combination of regular cleaning, sealing, and timely repairs. With proper care and attention, your resurfaced pool deck can remain beautiful, safe, and durable for many years. Whether you’ve opted for a stamped concrete finish, spray texture coating, or pebble surface, following these expert tips will help preserve your investment and ensure your pool area continues to be a stunning and functional outdoor oasis.

If you’re uncertain about specific maintenance tasks or if your pool deck needs professional attention, don’t hesitate to consult with a local expert specializing in pool deck resurfacing in Lakeland. They can provide tailored advice and services to keep your pool deck in excellent shape year-round.