Why pool decks wear out
- UV and heat break down sealers.
- Pool water splashes up carrying chlorine or salt and minerals, then evaporates and leaves deposits.
- Sprinklers add more hard water.
- Sunscreen, leaves and dirt get ground in.
The result is a deck that looks chalky, pale or spotty, with crusty white areas near the water and holes full of grime.
Weekly habits
- Blow or sweep off leaves and dust.
- Rinse with plain water now and then, especially near the waterline.
- Adjust sprinklers so they're not spraying the stone every day.
Cleaning
- Use a cleaner made for outdoor natural stone.
- Don't use acid (muriatic acid, many "efflorescence removers") on travertine. It'll dissolve the stone along with the crust.
- Go easy on the pressure washer. Too much pressure, or holding the tip too close, blows out the soft stone and opens holes. A wide fan tip, held back, is safer.
Sealing
An outdoor-rated, penetrating sealer helps the deck resist stains and makes rinsing easier. Most pool decks here need resealing more often than indoor floors. Do the water drop test from the sealing guide a couple of times a year.
Avoid glossy topical coatings on pool decks. They can get slippery, and they tend to peel in our sun.
Salt pools
Salt pools are popular, and they're gentle on swimmers, but salt residue crystallizes in stone pores as it dries. Rinsing the deck with fresh water helps. Keep it sealed.
When to call me
Crusty mineral buildup, lots of open holes, faded stone, or sealer that's failing. See pool deck & patio travertine.