10 Color Combinations That Make Your Pool Deck Pop

Is your pool deck looking drab and lackluster? A fresh coat of paint in an exciting color scheme can transform the area into a vibrant backyard oasis. The right colors not only liven up the space visually but also enhance the overall pool experience. From cheerful brights that exude summertime fun to natural earthy tones that promote relaxation, paint has the power to set the mood. Read on for 10 brilliant pool deck color combinations that will make your outdoor hangout pop.

Consider Climate and Orientation

Before picking any old color for your pool deck, it's important to think about your climate and the orientation of the deck itself. Areas that receive intense, direct sunlight day after day will require bright, light colors that reflect heat rather than absorbing it. Darker colors can fade quickly and get uncomfortably hot for bare feet in sunny locales. If your deck is shaded for much of the day, you have more flexibility to use deeper, bolder colors. The direction your deck faces also impacts how the sun hits it. South-facing spaces get more light, while north-facing ones are shadier.

Choosing Colors Based on Sun Exposure

Decks with full sun exposure all day will benefit from light, reflective colors like creamy whites, light grays, pale blues and minty greens. These hues won't fade as quickly and will keep the surface cooler. Consider navy blue for an accent rather than black, which absorbs too much heat. If your space is shaded, you can opt for brighter shades like lemon yellow, cherry red or vivid purple.

Position of Sun Impacts Color Appearance

The sun's orientation impacts how paint colors appear on your deck. South-facing spaces may require lighter shades as darker colors can take on a more intense look. North-facing decks with minimal sun exposure can handle deeper hues without appearing too overpowering. Be sure to observe your deck at different times of day before finalizing a color scheme.

Pair Colors with Surroundings

A cohesive look starts with choosing a pool deck color scheme that complements your home's exterior and backyard environment. If your house is light gray with navy shutters, carrying those hues over to the deck will give a pulled-together feel. Forest green tones can enhance the lushness of a yard with mature trees, while beige and brown work well if you have natural stone or wood elements. Echoing the water color in your pool is another idea, such as a Robin's egg blue deck with an aqua pool.

Match or Complement House Color

Tie everything together by selecting pool deck colors that match or coordinate nicely with your home's exterior color palette. For example, if you have a white house with black trim, black and white would be an obvious yet classic choice for the deck. Or consider gray decking alongside a sage green house for an earthy complementary combo.

Draw Inspiration from Landscaping

Surrounding trees, plants and hardscapes can provide clues for ideal pool deck colors. A backyard with lush ferns and conifers could take on rich forest green and brown deck tones. Desert environments may lean towards beige, terracotta and slate. Let the natural surroundings guide your color selection for harmony.

Set the Right Mood

The feeling you want to create guides the pool deck colors you choose. Inviting bright colors energize while muted cool tones relax. Bold colors make a statement for lively entertaining. Soft hues promote a peaceful ambiance for soaking up the sun. Consider the activities and vibe you want your deck to convey, then pick paint colors that align.

Bright, Warm Colors for Lively Atmosphere

If you regularly host lively pool parties or want an energizing deck for kids, bright warm colors hit the right note. Combinations like lemon yellow and tomato red or lime green and orange exude cheerfulness. They stimulate the senses for an uplifting hangout space.

Cool, Muted Tones for Relaxed Setting

For a more low-key, relaxed environment, cool tones in muted shades set a serene mood. Think light calming colors like pale gray, powder blue, muted sage green and cream. Keeping it subtle promotes tranquility and is ideal for decks meant for peaceful sunbathing and casual cocktail hours.

Emphasize Design Elements

Strategically applying color allows you to highlight special deck features. Use brighter tones on stairs for visibility and safety. Paint a border or geometric accent stripe in a contrasting bold shade. Or delineate walkways from the main deck area by painting them a different color for visual interest.

Use Bolder Colors on Stairs and Special Features

Apply more vibrant shades of paint on stairs, railings and other accent features you want to draw attention to. Outline stair risers in a bright contrasting color for better visibility. Paint metal railings black to make them pop against lighter deck tones.

Contrasting Borders Add Interest

Borders are a great way to add interest using contrast. For example, paint the main deck area a light gray and outline it with a navy blue perimeter stripe. Or use darker brick red only on borders surrounding a white deck.

Popular Color Combinations

1. Crisp White and Navy Blue

This classic pairing will forever be in style. Crisp clean white reflects heat and provides a neutral base while navy blue adds a bold accent color. The contrast pops for definition.

2. Earthy Terracotta and Slate Gray

For a down-to-earth vibe, terracotta and slate gray complement natural environments. Warm terracotta instantly livens up gray while providing a non-slip surface. This combo blends with stone or wood elements.

3. Robin's Egg Blue and Sunny Yellow

This cheerful duo creates an energetic ambiance perfect for summer fun. Cool watery blue keeps the deck reflective and comfortable underfoot while bright yellow accents energize the look.

4. Soothing Sage Green and Light Gray

Blending sage green with light gray results in a relaxing, organic look and feel. Earthy green emits tranquility but gray adds contrast and prevents the space from appearing too dark.

5. Vibrant Turquoise and Orange Accents

Make a bold tropical statement by pairing refreshing turquoise with happy pops of orange. Vibrant turquoise reflects sunlight to prevent heat absorption while orange jazzes up neutrals.

6. Rich Redwood and Cream

Redwood stained wood decking looks stunning against creamy pool coping. This natural combo warms up poolside spaces in an inviting way. Redwood brings depth while cream prevents a glare.

7. Classic Black and White

You can't go wrong with this sophisticated combo that reminds you of a chessboard. Stark white keeps things cool while preventing stains, and black provides stylish contrast.

8. Coastal Tan and Pale Blue

This beachy pairing reflects the colors of sand and sea. Warm tan decking exudes cozy coastal charm while light blue accents evoke relaxing days by the shore.

9. Shimmering Silver and Charcoal

For contemporary style, pairing shiny silver with charcoal gray creates an eye-catching modern look. Silver reflects sunlight and brightens the space while charcoal adds depth.

10. Vivid Violet and Lime Green

Make a bold, daring color statement by combining vivid violet with perky lime green. This unexpected combo packs a fun punch for lively spaces meant for entertaining.

Choosing the Right Paint

Special considerations come into play when selecting deck paint colors. Be sure to use exterior-grade acrylic latex paints formulated specifically for pool decks. These paints stand up to outdoor elements, pool chemicals, and wear and tear from foot traffic and furniture. Look for UV-resistant paints to prevent fading.

UV Resistance

Due to constant sun exposure, pool decks require paints with UV blockers that resist fading. Without UV protection, colors are more prone to rapidly fading and needing frequent touch ups.

Waterproofing

Pool deck paint needs superior waterproofing abilities so the color doesn't wash away over time. Quality deck paints contain resins that provide a water-repelling barrier when dry.

Non-Slip Finish

Safety is a top concern for bare poolside feet. Be sure to use deck paint with built-in slip resistance or add a non-slip additive during application for reliable traction.

Custom Color Options

Look for deck paints that can be tinted at the paint store for total customization. Many quality acrylic paint options are tintable using universal colorants to achieve your desired hue.

Prepping and Painting the Surface

Proper prep work is just as crucial as choosing the right deck paint colors. Cleaning, repairing cracks, and priming are key steps that ensure paint adheres and lasts beautifully on concrete pool decks.

Start With a Clean Surface

Pressure wash or thoroughly scrub your concrete pool deck before painting to remove built-up dirt, grime, mildew and chalky residue. Let the surface fully dry before proceeding.

Check for Cracks and Damage

Inspect for any cracks, chips or damaged areas in the concrete and repair prior to painting. Use concrete fillers, resurfacing mixes and bonding agents to patch imperfections.

Open Concrete Pores with Etcher

For proper adhesion, use an etching solution or lightly sand the surface to open up concrete pores before adding primer and paint. This gives the paint something to grip.

Apply Primer Before Paint

Quality primer provides an adhesion layer between the deck and paint for greater durability. Opt for heavy-bodied primers made specifically for pool deck surfaces.

Incorporate Non-Slip Additive

For added traction, stir in a non-slip additive as you apply the paint. Broadcast non-slip grit across the final coat while still wet for walked-on areas.

Protecting Your Investment

Keep your freshly painted pool deck looking like new by sealing, spot repairing, and regularly cleaning the surface. A well-cared for paint job can last 5-7 years on average.

Apply Clear Protective Sealer

Shield paint from UV rays, chemicals, and moisture by applying a clear sealer after painting. Reapply this protective layer every 1-2 years.

Watch for Fading

Note any areas of paint that appear to be losing vibrancy and touch up right away. Addressing fading as soon as it starts prevents it from rapidly worsening.

Repair Cracks Promptly

Don't neglect cracks that form over time. Use concrete fillers to patch any problem areas before they expand and cause bigger headaches.

Annual Power Washing

A yearly power washing keeps your deck free of dirt, stains, and buildup that can degrade paint. Avoid using harsh chemicals.

The right colors can liven up a dull pool deck while setting just the mood you want. Now that you're armed with expert tips and creative combinations, it's time to give your pool area an invigorating makeover. Vibrant new paint is an easy and affordable way to transform the space into your family and friends' favorite backyard oasis.