Tips On How to Clean Pool Decks

There are few things that can make a backyard pop quite as well as a crystal clear pool and sparkling pool deck. Along with stylish backyard furniture, your pool deck is the showcase of your backyard, and can help merge the style of your indoor and outdoor spaces. Unfortunately, pool deck cleaning isn’t always as straightforward as it sounds, especially when you’re not sure how to properly do it. If you want your pool deck to last, you’ll need to use the proper supplies and perform routine maintenance. Luckily, we’ve provided you with a few tips from the professionals to get you started.

How to Clean Different Pool Deck Surfaces

Deck surfaces come in a variety of materials, including concrete, tile, composite, vinyl, and wood. While the steps to cleaning are fairly similar, the specific products you use will differ depending on the material of your deck.

Before you get started with any heavy-duty cleaning, it’s always best to remove any debris by sweeping away from your deck. This will prevent anything from ending up in your pool and giving yourself another project to tackle. Once all the furniture, toys, and debris is cleared off you can get down to business.

For large pool decks, it is helpful to use a pressure washer filled with a manufacturer-approved cleaner. Again, you’ll want to ensure you are working away from your pool to prevent getting the cleaner in your pool water. Using a mild pressure, apply the cleaner to your deck and then rinse off with a hose. For smaller pool decks, you can simply use a garden hose with a spray attachment or a bucket and a brush combination. Always read the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or check with the manufacturing company prior to purchasing a cleaner for your pool deck.

Since pool deck cleaning can differ based on material, we’ve provided a few tips for maintaining the most popular surfaces.

How to Clean Your Concrete Pool Deck

While concrete pool decks are relatively easy to clean, they do run the risk of cracking over time. This can be caused by freezing temperatures, foundational problems, or water leakage. Not only is a cracked pool deck unsightly, but it can also present a tripping hazard and lead to more serious issues down the line. It’s important to patch and seal cracks in your pool deck promptly and properly, especially in areas where it will come in contact with water. Although this can be done yourself, professionals have the expertise needed to ensure you get the longest lifespan out of your deck.

How to Clean Your Tile Pool Deck

Tile is also a relatively easy-to-maintain deck surface as long as you select a material that is compatible with your pool water. To clean tile, you can either use a pressure washer or apply a mixture of water and chlorine bleach with a mop or scrub brush. It’s important to regularly clean the surface to prevent saltwater corrosion or chemical damage.

How to Clean Your Wood Pool Deck

There’s no denying the beauty of a pool surrounded by a quality wooden deck. Unfortunately, this beauty comes at a bit of a price, as maintaining wood that comes in frequent contact with water can be time-intensive.

To clean a wood deck, use a paint roller, garden sprayer, or stiff-bristled broom to apply the cleaner. You’ll want to try and avoid letting the cleaner pool or dry until you’ve finished scrubbing problem areas. The cleaner will likely need to set for a certain amount of time, after which it can be rinsed with water. Once you’ve cleaned and allowed your deck to dry (which can take up to three days), apply a sealer with waterproofing capabilities or mildewcide to ensure year-round protection.

How to Clean Your Composite Pool Deck

If you have a composite deck, you’ll want to avoid using a pressure washer as it can cause permanent damage and void your warranty. Instead, use a scrubber with a softer brush and a cleaning solution that is safe for composite material. For difficult stains such as rust, a deck brightener containing oxalic acid can be used, but you’ll want to make sure it’s safe for your particular composite product prior to application.

Preventing and Treating Algae on Your Pool Deck

Deck cleaners are designed to loosen debris and remove algae, so as long as an appropriate cleaning product is used, regular maintenance should keep these contaminants at bay. However, sometimes a deep clean is needed to attack the root of stubborn algae spores. This is especially important prior to staining wood decks as any remaining spores trapped under the stain will slowly eat away at the wood and cause decay. To eliminate algae and mildew growth prior to staining, you’ll need to use a solution of one part bleach to four parts water. You’ll want to apply the solution and let it sit for five to fifteen minutes, depending on how long the mildew has been present. Once you’ve allowed the solution to sit, scrub the problem areas and allow it to dry prior to repeating the process for any remaining growths. While algae and mildew are common and treatable, if you begin to notice mold, it may be time to call in a professional as this can lead to structural damage.

READ: 7 Signs It’s Time For Pool Deck Renovation

Maintaining Your Pool Deck’s Appearance

Although the sun is a necessary component to a great pool day, constant exposure to sunlight can wreak havoc on your pool deck. Once your deck color starts to fade it won’t return to its former glory without a fresh paint job. Although you cannot prevent fading, routinely moving objects that are shading your deck such as furniture or plants, can ensure it fades evenly.

Using a proper sealant will help prevent other deck appearance issues such as chipped paint and chemical stains. However for times when mother nature is stronger than your sealant, you’ll have to strip it all down and repaint.

We Can Help With Your Pool Deck Cleaning

Annual pool deck cleaning is a necessary component of proper pool maintenance. As long as regular maintenance is performed, most decks can be revived with a simple deck cleaner. Although you can do it on your own, it’s important to known how to clean your pool deck properly and which products are safe to use on your specific deck.

At GPS pools we can help you find the right materials and equipment should you wish to clean it yourself. However, hiring a professional provides you with the assurance that everything is done the right way. So, if your pool deck has lost a bit of its luster, give us a call, and we’ll help you restore it to its former glory.