How to Paint a Cool Deck

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Things You'll Need

  • Pressure washer

  • Trisodium phosphate

  • Gallon bucket

  • Hose with water source

  • Old broom

  • Crack repair kit

  • Rubber gloves

  • Face mask

  • Muriatic acid

  • Cool deck paint

  • Paint roller

Concrete cool deck surfaces can be painted.

Cool deck is a surface coating designed to be applied to the top of concrete. When cool deck is applied, it reduces surface temperatures and withstands environmental heating and cooling better than concrete alone. Cool deck lasts for years, but in time cool deck can become weathered. Pool owners can apply surface paints to refurbish cool deck and make it look close to new. The process for applying paint to cool deck is something that can be done by most homeowners, but application instructions for the paint must be strictly followed.

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Step 1

Clean the surface thoroughly. Use a pressure washer to thoroughly clean the deck surface, removing any surface dirt, stones or other debris. Add 1/4 cup trisodium phosphate to 1 gallon of water. Use an old broom to mop this mixture on the surface of the cool deck. Rinse with plain water. Reserve the remaining trisodium phosphate/detergent solution.

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Step 2

Inspect the cool deck area for cracks in any area that needs to be patched. Use a crack repair kit to repair any of this damage. Let dry overnight.

Step 3

Roughen the surface with muriatic acid to prepare it for paint. Put on gloves and a face mask. Mix a muriatic acid solution and apply according to manufacturer's directions. Rinse away the muriatic acid with the trisodium phosphate/detergent solution. Rinse again with water and allow to dry until the deck is damp but not dry.

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Step 4

Mix the Systex or other similar deck paint thoroughly. Apply the paint to the damp deck with a roller that has a nap no deeper than 3/8 inch. The paint application should be thin. It is better to apply several thin coats than one thick coat. Allow a 2-hour drying time between coats. Do not apply paint if there is a probability of rain within the next two days.

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Step 5

Allow the deck to dry for two days. If there is rain during this period, allow one additional day of drying for each day of rain. The deck is now painted and complete.

Tip

Apply the paint in weather with temperatures at least 50°Fahrenheit and no more than 90° Fahrenheit.

Warning

Muriatic acid should be handled carefully. Always mix and apply according to manufacturer's directions.

Always dispose of muriatic acid in a safe and ecologically friendly manner.

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