The Albuquerque weather is a real scorcher; how could it not when we are practically living in the Chihuahua desert? We have 310 days year-round, and we need to cool down one way or another. As you step outside and see that pool beckoning, you realize something’s missing - a cool pool deck where you can lounge while sipping a Chimayó cocktail. Now we’re talking!
But what material should you use? If you consider the cost vs. all the benefits — it looks cool, is functional, durable, and is budget-friendly — concrete is the winner. Let’s discuss why concrete is excellent for pool decking.
Summer comes earlier than the city’s lavish "Balloon Fiesta.” This is when you’d most likely spend much time chilling and enjoying your pool deck. Here's how concrete decks can make sure you have a great time:
- Heat Champs: A concrete slab has one solid advantage. Concrete acts like a thermal mass. It can absorb a huge amount of heat from the sun without significantly raising its own temperature. Come nighttime, it slowly releases the heat it absorbed during the day. What does that have to do with you? For a simple comparison, let's use metal as an example. If you use it for your decks, since it's an excellent conductor of heat, you'll burn your feet if you dare to step on it at high noon. But as soon as the sun comes down, it will be chilly to the touch. With concrete, though your decks will still feel hot at noon, it won't be as bad as with metal. When night comes, concrete will still feel warm because of the slow heat release it does.
- Sun Warriors: The sun's ultraviolet is terrible for our skin. It is for other materials, too. For pool deck materials, it can cause fading, cracking, and warping. But properly installed and sealed concrete can battle it. The cementitious material in concrete has natural UV resistance. Meanwhile, sealants give it additional protection. This means if you use concrete, you will preserve the appearance of your pool deck and avoid fading issues.
- Wind Tamers: Strong winds are no match to concrete. It is heavy and has a solid and stable foundation. It can't be topped over or blown away by the wind. Because of this, you are sure to stay safe while having fun by the poolside.
Maintenance is another factor to consider. Like most, we’d rather spend time hiking the trails of the Sandia Mountains or cheering on UNM Lobos at a thrilling basketball game than cleaning the pool area. With concrete, you don’t have to. It is a low-maintenance material that won’t chain you down:
- Easy Cleaning: Simple cleaning with a mild soap and water is all it takes! No need to get expensive chemicals that would only do more harm than help.
- Sealing Secrets: Regular sealing can protect the concrete from the arid climate. Just have it professionally resealed every 3 to 5 years and you can have it looking its best for a long time.
Gone are the days of boring concrete slabs! Modern concrete offers a stunning array of design options to match your Albuquerque style:
- New Mexico Flair: Bring the spirit of the Southwest to your backyard with stamped concrete that mimics the look of traditional Saltillo tile.
- A Splash of Color: Stained concrete lets you add pops of color to your pool area, creating a unique and personalized space.
- Cool Underfoot: Beat the heat with a cool coating that reflects sunlight and keeps your bare feet comfortable on those scorching summer days.
Safety is paramount when it comes to pool areas. The good news is that concrete offers several slip-resistant options:
- Textured Finishes: Adding a textured finish to the flooring creates a grip underfoot, even when wet.
- Special Coatings: There are special coatings available that enhance the slip resistance of concrete, providing you peace of mind for poolside fun.
One thing to keep in mind is the unique soil composition in Albuquerque; it has caliche. This hardpan layer of soil rich in calcium carbonate requires special attention during concrete pool deck installation.
Caliche is not ideal for concrete pool deck installation. What looks like a solid base to casual onlookers can be shaky beneath the surface. Caliche can move with time and crack under stress, posing a threat to the structure’s strength.
Depending on the severity, there are some methods to combat caliche. There are instances when caliche had to be removed or broken up to achieve a stable subgrade. In other situations, you may have to use other methods to strengthen and stabilize it.
Consider Concrete When:
- Durability, Low Maintenance, Affordability: Concrete can stand Albuquerque’s climate and soil. It is also durable and can last for years. If you are looking for these criteria with easy maintenance, then concrete is for you.
- Design Versatility: Goodbye boring grey slab! Stamped concrete, stained finishes, cool deck coatings, and our New Mexico-inspired, Saltillo tile-like finishes all let you customize your pool area however way you want it.
- Complementary to NM Style: The perfect complement to your Albuquerque regional landscape is concrete. Blend your pool area or patio naturally with your surroundings. You can use stamped concrete to replicate natural elements such as Saltillo tile, and unify your outdoor living space.
Consider Other Options When:
- Ultra-Soft Underfoot: While concrete offers a variety of finishes, it can feel hot under bare feet on scorching days. If a luxuriously soft experience is essential, you might consider alternative materials.
- High-End Budget: If budget isn't a major concern and you want luxurious natural stone like flagstone. However, don’t be bill-shocked - as early as now, know that it is going to be pricey. On top of that, those materials require more TLC than good-ole concrete.
- Highly Specific Design: Concrete has come a long way in terms of design and style. But, admittedly, there are still designs you can’t achieve with concrete. If you are looking into creating a unique or intricate design, it is best to look for other alternatives.
In Albuquerque, your pool deck is going to encounter serious extremes of heat and wind. It will also have to contend with sporadic freeze-thaw cycles. In various situations, concrete decks are superb. They are durable and low-maintenance, and with a huge range of design options, they make a great fit with Albuquerque’s signature look.
The most essential key to longevity and beauty is working with a local concrete company in Albuquerque who understands local soil conditions and can install your pool decks properly.
