The swimming pool deck can pose a tripping or slipping hazard that can lead to serious injuries. For example, when swimmers get out of the water, water can accumulate on the deck creating a slippery surface.
Approximately 155,000 injuries occur in or around swimming pools as a result of slip and fall.
Here are pool deck upgrades to ensure the safety of your family and guests.
Put on grip strips
Anti-slip decking strips are a quick and easy way to improve pool deck safety. They create an instant non-slip surface on top of your existing pool deck. Many of these anti-slip strips come in DIY packs that you can just simply screw onto the deck.
Several tests have shown that strips spaced three inches apart are 50 per cent likely to result in a fall. Strips should be spaced no more than 1 1/2 inches apart. Also, gaps between the strips should be perpendicular to the direction of travel.
Re-surface the deck
Any pool deck becomes slippery with water. Here are safety upgrades you can do to some of the most popular pool deck surfaces.
Tile
Tiles provide a rich look around an in-ground pool. But, smooth ceramic tiles can pose a safety hazard because they get very slippery when wet. Tiles with a textured surface will provide a better grip.
Wood
Moss and algae can grow on wood, resulting in a slippery surface. If you love the look of wood decking but don’t want the added yearly maintenance, consider upgrading to composite wood. A composite wood decking may be more expensive to build than the usual wood decking but it makes up for practicality.
Concrete
Concrete is very popular for in-ground pools. However, this material also becomes very slippery when wet. Consider adding small pebbles or rocks on top of it to create traction.
Apply a protective overlay
The pool deck can wear, warp and crack over time. Uneven surfaces and cracks can cause swimmers to accidentally stub their toe or cut their skin.
In a poorly-maintained concrete pool deck, water can easily find its way into the untreated cracks. This excess water can damage the integrity of the pool in the long run. Sealing a concrete pool deck with a protective overlay will keep swimmers safe and provide the pool with long-lasting protection.
Recoating the deck will also enhance the pool’s overall beauty.
Install a pool gate
Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children under the age of 14.
In the United States, there are no federal pool fence regulations in place. Several states, including Florida and Arizona, however, enact their pool fence laws.
When mounting an enclosure on the deck, it should completely surround the pool. It should be a minimum of four feet in height. Although, fences equal to or higher than five feet are highly encouraged.
A glass pool fence is sturdy and strong enough to provide kids and pets with an added layer of protection. It can be harder to climb on compared to usual grid fences because there are no toe holds that kids can step or latch onto.
Check with your pool professional to see what pool deck upgrades you can do. By promoting safety, your backyard pool will become a place for a safer and more enjoyable experience for your family and guests.