Can you resurface your own concrete deck? As more homeowners throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts start getting in the mindset for deck season, many are wondering if their concrete decks need a facelift before the first barbecue or pool party. However, attempting a "rush job" with DIY deck resurfacing could cause a bigger hassle than it's worth. Don't just take our word for it! Let's walk through DIY vs. professional resurfacing.
How Difficult Is DIY Concrete Deck Resurfacing?
How hard can slapping on some fresh concrete to update an outdated pool deck really be? Hardware stores sell a number of ready-to-use concrete overlays that homeowners can use for DIY deck resurfacing. Unfortunately, it can be impossible for homeowners to anticipate the results they'll get unless they have a good idea of all of the underlying issues that are hidden below the surface of their existing concrete. Here's a look at what can go wrong with DIY concrete pool deck resurfacing:
You could create an uneven surface that causes drainage issues and trip hazards around your pool.
Improper application of concrete overlay could cause buckling and cracking.
Misjudging drying times or laying products on too thick could create a sloppy finished product that destroys the aesthetic of your pool area.
What starts off as a well-intentioned weekend project could turn into several weeks of work when you account for prep work, overlay application, and cleanup requirements.
Unfortunately, many homeowners get in over their heads because they don't realize just how many steps are involved with resurfacing a concrete deck. What's more, the results aren't always what homeowners dreamed of once they see the finished product. Let's take a look at how intensive this project really is for the average homeowner.
The Preparation Stage
Proper preparation is essential for great results. If you don't prepare the existing decking surface with the right steps, your results won't last. That's why so many homeowners are disappointed to see their hard work get ruined shortly after they complete DIY concrete deck resurfacing. If you do decide to go the DIY route with your resurfacing project, put aside extra time to thoroughly clean and prepare the existing surface. This will include using a combination of labor-intensive sanding and grinding to create a smooth surface by removing the existing coating on your decking. The unexpected step involved with preparing to resurface is dust management.
As a homeowner, you may not realize just how much debris and dust will be kicked up into the air as you begin smoothing down your existing decking material. That means you'll need to spend time cleaning up the surrounding area in your yard after you're done. Use caution! The surface you’re removing is full of dangerous concrete particles that can harm your health if inhaled. You will also need to keep any children or pets away from the area while the project is going on.
Addressing Cracks
If you're planning to apply some type of store-bought concrete overlay product to your pool deck, this can only be successful if you're applying it to a surface that's in perfect condition. That puts the onus on you to remove any existing paint and address cracks or damaged areas. Holes and cracks need to be filled in with a special compound. After making the necessary repairs, the area needs to be fully smoothed before you can move forward. In many cases, homeowners don't realize just how much shifting and cracking has been taking place under their concrete decks until they start scraping them down.
Applying the New Surface
Finally, you'll have to go through the process of applying the store-bought concrete overlay product you've chosen. While these products are made for DIY application, skill and knowledge are still needed to ensure proper consistency. Concrete overlays attach to bonding agents that are applied prior to putting down your overlay. You'll need to carefully apply the bonding agent in order to get your overlay to "stick."
In addition to mastering the bonding process, you'll need to be prepared to mix the overlay according to the manufacturer's instructions. Finally, it's time to apply your liquid overlay to the surface of your deck. If you want to create even results, you'll need to carefully spend time using different application tools to apply a consistent, even layer of overlay over the entire surface of the deck. If you're opting for an ornamental look, you'll need to use special rollers or trowels to add texture before the wet overlay has a chance to begin drying.
The project isn't done just yet! If you're happy with the results, you'll still need to add a final seal. Sealant is necessary to protect your work from sun damage and water damage. Purchase a sealant that's appropriate for concrete decks.
Professional Deck Resurfacing: See the Difference Doing This Project the Right Way Can Make
If all of the steps above sound like much more work than you'd like to take on during your precious weekends, there's an easier option that can provide you with long-lasting results that give you peace of mind over the fact that your newly resurfaced deck will hold up for many years to come without risks for cracking. We're talking about having your deck professional resurfaced by a company specializing in decks in the Northeast. While those "easy" DIY deck resurfacing overlays sold at hardware stores are meant for concrete decks all over the country, only a regional deck resurfacing company can offer options that are customized to help your concrete stand up to the local climate and notorious freeze-thaw cycle of the Northeast.
Why sacrifice your weekends to do a resurfacing project when you're not even sure if it will turn out right? Discover why countless homeowners throughout the Northeast have already trusted their concrete deck resurfacing to RenuKrete. We can get your pool deck and patio area ready for company before hosting season begins at your home!
RenuKrete's proven resurfacing system allows us to sculpt your existing concrete deck into a updated, refined version without the cracking, crumbling, and imperfections that are leaving your beloved outdoor area looking old and outdated. In addition to dramatically improving the look of your concrete deck, our resurfacing services ensure that this space you love to share with friends and family is safe again. In addition, our quality work and materials ensure that your concrete pool deck is protected against cracks and buckling for years to come!
When RenuKrete resurfaces a pool deck, we don't simply pile more heavy concrete on top of your existing deck to hide problems. All that weight can lead to cracking and peeling that create bigger problems over time. We instead work with your existing concrete to create a transformation that leaves the area safe and stable. RenuKrete's exclusive system allows us to permanently fix existing cracks instead of covering them up or starting from scratch. You won't believe how beautiful your concrete can look!
Want Your Pool Deck Looking Its Best Before Company Arrives? RenuKrete Is Worth the Call
The truth is that DIY pool deck resurfacing comes with a very steep learning curve for anyone who doesn't have experience with bonding agents and concrete. Even the most determined homeowner with their minds set on a DIY pool deck update should at least consider getting an assessment from a professional resurfacing company.
When it comes to what's happening under the surface of your concrete pool deck's veneer, you simply don't know what you don't know. Allow a friendly crew from RenuKrete to come out to your home to give the full story on any underlying issues going down to the soil beneath your concrete deck. You may be relieved to hear that we can prolong the lifetime of your existing concrete pool deck with our exclusive, state-of-the-art concrete resurfacing system.
As the #1 regional concrete pool deck resurfacing company throughout the Northeast, RenuKrete is happy to visit you to provide an assessment in places throughout New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. Just give us a call at 800-406-5010 today to see if RenuKrete is a good choice for your yard.
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