Sand Finish Pool Deck with a Custom Freeform Shape and Channel Drain

For pool decks in Washington's wet climate, sand finish and exposed aggregate concrete are excellent choices. These textured surfaces provide superior slip resistance when wet, which is essential for pool safety. Sand finish offers a uniform, smooth texture that's comfortable for bare feet, while exposed aggregate adds visual interest with natural stone. Both finishes handle freeze-thaw cycles well and shed water effectively.

A channel drain is a linear drainage system that runs along the pool deck, typically near the pool edge or along walkways. It collects and channels water away from the pool area, preventing slippery puddles and water damage to surrounding structures. For pool decks, channel drains are essential because they handle large volumes of splash water and prevent pooling that can create slip hazards. When properly integrated into the concrete, they're nearly flush with the surface and barely visible, maintaining clean sight lines while keeping the deck safe and dry.

Concrete pool decks offer several advantages over pavers, especially for custom curved designs. Poured concrete creates a seamless, monolithic surface without individual pieces that can shift, settle, or create tripping hazards. For freeform pool shapes, concrete allows for smooth, flowing curves that are difficult to achieve with rigid pavers. Concrete is also more cost-effective for large areas, requires less maintenance (no weed growth between joints), and provides better water management when properly sloped. While pavers can be replaced individually, a well-installed concrete deck with control joints will last 25-30+ years with minimal maintenance.

A custom concrete pool deck project typically takes 2-3 weeks from start to finish, depending on size and complexity. The timeline includes: site preparation and grading (1-2 days), formwork and rebar installation (2-3 days), concrete pouring and finishing (1 day), curing period (7-10 days), and final sealing. For complex curved designs with custom coping and integrated drainage, allow additional time for precision formwork. Weather is a critical factor in the Pacific Northwest—concrete work requires dry conditions and temperatures above 50°F, so summer and early fall are ideal installation seasons.

Sand finish concrete stays significantly cooler than smooth concrete because its textured surface reflects more sunlight and allows air circulation. While darker colors like charcoal will absorb more heat, sand finish is still more comfortable than smooth concrete or dark pavers. To minimize heat, choose lighter aggregate colors or consider a light broom finish. In the Pacific Northwest, our moderate summer temperatures mean pool decks rarely become uncomfortably hot. For maximum comfort on sunny days, strategically placed shade structures or light-colored sealer can further reduce surface temperature by 10-15 degrees.