Stamped concrete for pools: Reasons for a successful alternative
Stamped concrete stands out as one of the best performing alternatives in pool decoration due to its remarkable resistance and great ability to achieve exclusive designs.
The decorative landscape values it as one of the most efficient decorative coverings in this kind of environments and this has caused its demand to skyrocket in recent years.
A product in which aesthetics and functionality merge, and all this at a more than economical price, which has made it a safe bet for pool decoration.
Advantages of using stamped concrete in pools
Stamped concrete has become one of the most requested materials for pool decoration. This is simply because opting for this material means achieving assured success. Surfaces look with a great variety of designs and all this is accompanied by a faithful resistance that translates into a long-lasting coating. Below we will show you some of the most outstanding advantages that define the high performance of stamped concrete in pools:
It is ideal for its waterproof character
One of the most characteristic qualities of stamped concrete is its impressive resistance to moisture and contact with water. A property that is enhanced to waterproofing through the use of varnishes or sealers.
You will get safe and non-slip surfaces
The molds and resins used that are applied to seal the support are responsible for giving the support this non-slip quality of the concrete. This creates a safe surface, which facilitates grip and avoids potential slips that can end up in an accident, especially in areas like swimming pools.
It withstands the weather like no other
A product to provide surfaces with better strength, thus helping to extend their useful life. The stamped concrete presents a great resistance to the weather, therefore it effectively withstands drastic changes in temperature, snowfalls, erosion, UV radiation, pedestrian traffic, and hits and scratches.
Highly customizable designs
If this decorative coating is known for something, it is for its great versatility to represent a great diversity of designs. Its execution by stamping molds and its wide color catalog makes the stamped concrete offer an unlimited variety of finishes..
Long life with low maintenance
Surfaces coated with this product will not need to be excessively attended since it is a material that does not need much maintenance. Using water or a broom is enough to remove dirt. In case of grease or oil stains, it is recommended to use a specialized detergent.
Quick and easy installation process
Its execution can be carried out directly on the original support. It also effectively adapts to ground irregularities and unevenness, so its installation is really simple and economical.
Stamped concrete problems for pools and how to avoid them
Stamped concrete is a popular technique to enhance the appearance of pools. However, there can be problems if the concrete is not prepared and applied correctly. Here are some of the most common problems that can occur with stamped concrete in pools.
Delamination
Delamination is the most common problem with stamped concrete. It occurs when the layer of concrete peels off from the surface of the pool. This may be due to poor surface preparation, poor mixing of the concrete or incorrect application. It can also happen if the concrete is exposed to extreme temperatures during drying. To prevent delamination, make sure to prepare and apply the concrete according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Cracks
Cracks are usually provoked commonly by premature dehydration of the support, for this reason it is important to maintain a constant moisture of the surface to be able to avoid it.
Discoloration and porosity
Discoloration and porosity may be due to a poor mix, incorrect application or incorrect drying. It can also occur if concrete is exposed to sunlight during drying or to rain in the case of porosity. To prevent these, ensure you follow the manufacturer's instructions when mixing and applying the concrete. It is also important to check that the concrete dries correctly before exposing it to sunlight.
Leveling
Another common problem that arises when using stamped concrete for pool decoration is that the surface on which the concrete is poured is not completely leveled. If the surface is not leveled, the concrete will settle unevenly, and this can cause problems when printing a design. To avoid this problem, it is important to ensure that the surface on which the concrete is to be poured is leveled.
Poor mold choice
A poor choice of mold where the texture or relief is not adequate can cause the surface not to offer the required conditions for a pool, such as a non-slip finish.
Saline water accumulation
One of the problems that needs to be taken into account is scale formation. The accumulation of large amounts of saline water can lead to the erosion of the surface, weakening the resins or sealers and causing scales to form.
This effect can also be caused by wet-dry cycles. The formation of crystals can lead to pavement cracking, so it is important to constantly monitor salt levels, as well as pH levels.
Application process for imprinted concrete for pools: steps you should follow
The installation of imprinted concrete surfaces around the pool requires no more complexity than any other pavement. Below we will show you the steps to follow to achieve a successful application that does not cause any type of damage in the future.
Preparation of the area
In order to ensure a successful installation, the surface must be prepared in such a way that any type of imperfection is eliminated, such as cracks, dirt, or unevenness. Specifically for the pool, it should be leveled in such a way that the perimeter is higher than the pool itself.
Placement of the mesh and execution of expansion joints
The mesh is vital to establish with the aim of providing greater balance and stability to the surface. The professional should make sure that the mesh remains about 2 cm from the pavement.
Once we have finished installing the concrete, the execution of the joints should be done, as this will prevent the pavement from cracking.
Apply, spread and level the imprinted concrete for pools
Once the surface has been prepared and it is in the desired conditions, the imprinted concrete should be applied and then spread over it. The use of gutters is recommended in case the pouring exceeds 1.20 meters. Finally, the concrete should be leveled and smoothed over the surface.
Pigmentation of stamped concrete
This is one of the most valued stages in the application process of imprinted concrete in pools, giving personality to the surface through the use of color hardener. For this, it must be ensured that the concrete has properly set before sprinkling the hardener.
Add demoulding agent to the imprinted concrete
In this step, a liquid or powder demoulding agent should be added, all with the aim of facilitating the removal of the imprinted concrete molds, without causing a defect on it.
Application of the printed molds
Once the demolding agent has been applied, we will go to the next logical step, the stamping of the molds on the fresh concrete. Once these are totally dry, that is when you can proceed to the mold removal.
Wash and protect the imprinted concrete for swimming pools
You should check that the final surface is completely dry and then clean it from the excess aggregates that have stuck on it. This cleaning is usually done using pressurized water. Finally, apply the resin to give the imprinted concrete greater resistance and a more intense color.
Imprinted concrete imitation wood for swimming pool: the design that does not disappoint
The imprinted concrete imitation wood is one of the most popular molds and it's not surprising, as it guarantees the aesthetics of wood, but with all the advantages of stamped concrete.
Wood has the disadvantage that it often spoils in climates or areas where there is a high degree of humidity present, this is why it is rarely seen in areas such as swimming pools and, if it is, its maintenance is very demanding and costly.
With imprinted concrete, all the problems go away, providing us a material that will effectively resist over time, with the aesthetics and texture of wood, creating an elegant setting with a rustic touch, which makes it really attractive.
Choose your finish in the imprinted concrete for swimming pool
It's true that the wood mold has a large number of followers, however, imprinted concrete has the advantage of offering us an array of appearances through its texture and finishes achieved with the different molds. Some of the most popular are: stone, tile, brick, and many more. Take your time to think about which one you prefer and which best blends with the environment, also being able to choose from a wide range of colors to create exclusive and totally personalized designs.
Price per square meter of stamped concrete for pools
The price per m2 for the application of stamped concrete for pools does not have a fixed budget. It is necessary to evaluate certain variable factors in order to, on that basis, approximate a price of what the installation may mean.
For this, it is recommended to contact an expert with experience who knows the product in detail and can calculate it faithfully. This will take into account the dimensions of the work, as well as the price for labor, the difficulty of the installation, the quality of the material and the geographical area.
In the case of Spain, it is also required to use a special varnish with a slipperiness level 3, an element that will also have to be taken into account. However, in general terms, the price of stamped concrete for pools in Spain is between 40 and 100 euros per m2.
Tips to maintain a stamped concrete for pool in optimum conditions
Stamped concrete is a material that greatly facilitates both its application and subsequent maintenance, however, if certain measures are taken, the results can be even more satisfactory. Next, we will show you some tips to make your stamped concrete for pool last over time satisfactorily and with the same features and aesthetics as the first day.
Make use of stamped molds with higher slip resistance
When dealing with the pool, designs should be chosen that create more slip-resistant surfaces, in order to prevent falls and make them safer. For this, it is vital to choose a mold that creates a stamped concrete with a suitable texture and relief.
Do not pour excess resin
Excess can cause problems to arise on the surface such as a lack of shine of the concrete, as well as the appearance of white stains or bubbles during the curing time.
Clean the surface
Although it does not require exhaustive cleaning and maintenance, it is recommendable to clean it occasionally with water or mild detergent.
Renew the varnish every 2-3 years
The same applies to the varnish. Over time it can deteriorate and not be as effective in protecting the surface. Therefore, it is suggested that the resin be renewed every 2 or 3 years in order to recover the same strength, as well as shine and color.
Wash the floor after using the pool
This suggestion is specifically addressed to those pools that are saltwater. In order to not affect the condition of the concrete, it is recommended that after each swim the pavement is cleaned with water to eliminate the salty residues.