Problem:
The deck area surrounding our swimming pool has cracks and chips, and the paint is peeling. We need a new deck that will provide long-term ease of maintenance and a more durable, watertight and slip-resistant surface. What’s the best option?
Solution:
One of the most cost-effective solutions to renovate and waterproof decks in aquatic facilities (including interior locker room flooring) is to cover the existing deck or flooring with an 80mil thick, reinforced PVC deck membrane that will provide an attractive, waterproof and slip-resistant deck that is both safer and provides superior comfort for the bare feet of patrons.
This type of reinforced PVC membrane was created to renovate and waterproof decks at any type of aquatic facility—from waterparks and wave pools to athletic facilities or community pools. Reinforced PVC deck membrane can provide long-term ease of maintenance and a terrific solution for common deck problems including cracks, chips, peeling paint and more.
PVC pool deck membranes provide a long-lasting waterproof solution that does not require recoating and comes with far less maintenance than traditional decking solutions. Unlike concrete decks, PVC membranes for pool and spa decks can be installed in almost any temperature. In fact, the PVC membrane eliminates the common cracking problems in concrete that occur with freeze-thaw weather. PVC membrane decking can be installed on concrete surfaces, tiled floors or wood.
Reinforced PVC also offers additional safety benefits for decks experiencing cracking, flaking, delamination and peeling—benefits that can particularly be appealing for commercial aquatic facilities. In some cases, the decks around pools can be the most dangerous part of any pool. Older, cracked or peeling decks can lead to injuries due to slippery surfaces. Some cracks can even cut bathers’ feet. Reinforced PVC encapsulates the deck, making the area slip-resistant and waterproof.
Having a fully waterproofed deck has many advantages, including long-term structural advantages. For example, if the pool deck is not properly waterproofed, the water left by swimmers exiting the pool or from splash-out or deck cleaning can penetrate the floor and infiltrate the substrate causing future maintenance issues to the structure. Water on the deck that does not drain properly over time can infiltrate the structure and deteriorate the pool, not to mention being visually detracting and unsafe. Using reinforced PVC to waterproof the entire deck avoids all this because it guarantees complete waterproofing of the deck. Further, the slip-resistant PVC ensures all safety requirements in all areas of the wet-zone are met including locker rooms and other indoor spaces.
PVC deck membrane material is very resistant to chlorine and stains, thanks to its highly protective acrylic lacquer coating. The membrane’s smooth surface prevents the accumulation of dirt and grime—reducing the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance. Unlike other decking products, there is no need to use acid or other dangerous and abrasive cleaners to keep the surface in perfect condition all year long. This can be especially appealing for commercial aquatic facilities. The PVC deck membrane offers a commercial grade, long-term solution because it is not only thick and non-porous but also coated with a protective lacquer that resists chemical abuse, water absorption and UV deterioration.
The installation of reinforced PVC can even be done over cold joints in concrete and is not susceptible to freeze-thaw cycles. The PVC deck membrane also stabilizes the pool deck by preventing future water infiltrations. The reinforced PVC can also be easily combined with a gutter system to create a watertight solution for the entire pool area.
Additionally, once the reinforced PVC is installed, the surface underneath the pool deck can continue to shift and crack but it will not affect the reinforced PVC itself. Further, in many cases, this reinforced PVC deck membrane often comes with a longer warranty than other deck options. In many cases, not only does the reinforced PVC interior pool finish help to solve a deck problem, but it can also make pool maintenance easier than a traditional concrete deck surface.
For More Information:
Natare Pools
800-336-8828
www.natare.com