How to Take Care of Plastic Pool Decking? Here Is All You Need To Know
Do you know how to take care of your plastic pool decking to ensure it remains in good shape over the years? Do you want to know if the best way to clean and protect your pool deck all year round to ensure it does not crack and remain durable?
If you already own an above-ground pool, you probably have a plastic pool deck that needs regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and safety for users. The good news is that it's pretty simple to take care of your pool deck and prevent future maintenance headaches.
Plastic pools are made from various safe plastics that enable you to save even more money on pool ownership. They are available in a variety of forms and colors, allowing you to pick one that properly complements your home. Plastic pools don't need expensive maintenance and still look great, so you won't have to break the bank to own one.
Of course, it can be expected that plastic materials would not be durable, but if proper care is not taken, then it will become the weakest link in the chain. If you've recently built a new plastic-based pool deck, you'll want to know how to maintain it so it lasts longer. So, you are at the right place. Without further ado, let's get started.
Best Methods to Clean a Pool Deck
Cleaning your pool deck is an essential step in the pool maintenance process. If you don't clean your pool deck, you can have many problems, such as algae or mold growth on the surface of the deck. Not only is it unsightly, but it can reduce the safety of your pool deck because it interferes with traction.
Power Wash:
Power washing is one of the most effective ways to clean a pool deck. You can rent a power washer or hire someone to do it for you. However, if you will rent one, make sure that you follow all safety precautions when using this type of equipment.
Also, protect your eyes and face from being sprayed by high-pressure water with goggles and a face mask. If you clean the deck yourself using this method, be sure that you wear gloves to protect your hands from being injured by splashing water that is released upon impact against the stone surface.
You should be aware that power washing can cause fine stones to break off the surface of your pool deck. If you want to avoid this, consider hiring someone else to do the job for you.
How to Clean Your Plastic Pool Deck
The first step to a clean plastic pool deck is to remove all of the debris and leaves in it. Use a leaf rake or net to gather up as much of the debris as possible. Next, use a cleaning solution and scrub brush to remove everything else.
If you have resin tile, be sure not to use an acid-based cleaning solution, as this can damage the material. Instead, mix three parts of water with one part bleach in a bucket and then apply it with a scrub brush. Rinse the deck thoroughly after you're done scrubbing it.
The deck should look pretty clean at this point, but there might still be some dirt or stains that need special attention. If that's the case, mix one part of muriatic acid with ten parts water in a bucket and apply this with a scrub brush. It should help remove any remaining stains.
Once you've rinsed the deck again, get out your power washer and spray off any remaining dirty areas. When you're done with the power washer, pump out any standing water on the deck and then use your leaf blower to dry everything off. Finally, reapply your sealant so that it will last longer.
How to Treat Spots on a Plastic Pool Deck
If you've got a spot on your plastic pool deck, there's no need to toss the whole thing in the trash. You can treat it fairly quickly and save yourself some money. The most likely cause of the spots is algae growth.
Algae is usually tan or green and grows in patches, so if you've got a patchy brown area on your pool deck, that's what it is. If that's indeed what you have, here are some ways to get rid of it:
- Scrape off any loose material — this can be tough to do, but if you can remove loose paint or stain, it will go faster and easier.
- Make a solution of 1 gallon of water and 1 cup of bleach, then scrub the affected area with it before thoroughly rinsing (wear gloves). It can be hard on the pool deck surface; if it doesn't altogether remove the stain, repeat once every week or two until it does.
- If you can find commercial algae treatment products for your type of pool surface, follow the directions on them for treating algae problems.
- You can also use an algaecide which contains copper sulfate. Copper sulfate works by destroying the cell walls of algae exposed to it. This chemical will automatically eliminate any algae cells directly exposed to it when added to your pool water. This method works well but keeps in mind that copper sulfate will not work if your algae have grown beyond the surface area of your pool and that your collection must be appropriately balanced with chlorine before using it.
- Another option is to scrub away at those unsightly patches using a brush and metal scouring pad along with some muriatic acid (found at hardware stores). You should wear
How to Repair a Cracked Plastic Pool Deck
A plastic pool deck can be a beautiful addition to any backyard. However, plastic pool decks are prone to cracking due to our weather's hot and cold temperatures. But you can repair cracks in your pool deck using epoxy.
Use a crack filler for plastics to fill in all the cracks in the pool deck. The filler will be in a putty-like consistency and colored like the plastic material you are repairing, making it blend into the surface quickly.
You can usually find this type of crack filler at hardware or home improvement stores. Follow all of the instructions and directions on the product label, as some products will require you to lightly sand the surface before applying it.
Make sure that you clean out all of the cracks on your surface thoroughly, allow it to fully dry, and then apply the filler. If there is any moisture left in the breaks when using the filler, it will not hold properly and may fall right back out when it dries.
After you've filled the cracks with crack filler, use a caulk gun to apply an even and smooth layer of epoxy around all of them. It will give them extra strength and keep them from re
Why Hire A Professional To Pressure Wash, A Plastic Pool Deck?
It is mandatory to hire a professional to pressure wash your pool deck. It is because the chemicals in the pressure washer can damage your plastic swimming pool deck, and it is not necessary to do it yourself. Here are some reasons you should hire a professional to pressure wash your pool deck:
- It Is Better For Your Health:
You do not have to be in direct contact with the chemicals used for cleaning the pool deck. It will protect you from any injuries or irritation caused by the harsh chemicals used when cleaning the deck.
- Pressure Washing Keeps It Cleaner Longer:
The harshness of the chemicals used in pressure washing helps clean off any algae or discoloration on the pool deck. The chemicals also help to keep it cleaner longer.
- Cleaning Your Pool Deck by Yourself Can Damage it:
Using a stiff brush or even sandpaper will scratch up the surface of your plastic swimming pool deck, making it more susceptible to sunlight damage. Using a power washer can worsen this problem, stripping away layers of paint or other protective coatings on your swimming pool.
When hiring a professional, they have access to power washers that are less damaging than ones that you might find at a rental shop or hardware store.
Tips for Keeping a Pool Deck Clean
Keeping a plastic pool deck clean is essential to prevent slips and falls. Plastic pool decks can also be affected by mold and mildew if not appropriately maintained. Here are some tips for cleaning a plastic pool deck:
- Use the recommended cleaning products for your specific pool material. Some chemicals can damage or discolor your plastic deck surface.
- Keeping a plastic pool deck clean requires regular maintenance. Inspect the area for any broken pieces of decking or missing sections of skirting.
- Repair any damage to prevent further issues from developing.
- Clean the area using a garden hose with a spray nozzle attachment and warm water, taking care to avoid any sharp metal edges that may tear your hose.
- Ensure to rinse away all dirt, algae, and other materials thoroughly before allowing the area to dry completely.
- Use a soft-bristled brush like those used to bathe newborns, together with an acidic cleaning like lemon juice or vinegar, to remove stubborn stains.
- Avoid harsh abrasives as they can wear down the plastic surface over time and make it more vulnerable to cracks and fractures.
Bottom Line:
Because of its superior resistance to weathering, plastic pool decking is now gaining popularity. However, maintaining its beauty can sometimes be a chore because of moss, algae, and general wear and tear from sunlight and water. Luckily, the upkeep isn't tricky. Simply follow the methods outlined above to keep your plastic in tip-top shape.
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