Planning to resurface your pool deck in Phoenix? Cool deck resurfacing solves that burning summer problem. You know that feeling when you step outside in July and the concrete is hot enough to blister your feet. Understanding the real costs helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises. Here is what pool deck coatings actually cost in the Phoenix area in 2026.
Quick Cost Overview
Most homeowners we work with are surprised by the price difference between a simple recolor and a full resurfacing. A typical Phoenix pool deck ranges from 400 to 600 square feet.
| Coating Type | Cost Range (Total Project) | Cost Per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Cool Deck (Kool Deck) | $2,000 - $5,000 | $5.00 - $10.00 |
| Acrylic Lace Overlay | $2,500 - $6,000 | $6.00 - $12.00 |
| Epoxy Coating | $3,000 - $6,000 | $6.00 - $12.00 |
| Stamped Concrete Overlay | $4,000 - $8,000 | $8.00 - $15.00 |
Cost Per Square Foot Breakdown
Cool Deck (Kool Deck)
$5-10 per square foot installed
This is the most popular choice for Arizona pools for a reason. We find that genuine Kool Deck significantly lowers surface temperatures.
Why it is a staple in Phoenix:
- Heat Reduction: Can lower surface temperature by roughly 20 degrees Fahrenheit compared to bare concrete.
- Breathability: Allows moisture from the soil to pass through without bubbling the coating.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Offers the best heat relief for the lowest price point.
What affects price:
- Condition of existing concrete
- Amount of crack repair needed
- Number of colors in the pattern
- Complexity of pool shape
Acrylic Lace Overlay
$6-12 per square foot installed
A decorative textured coating that provides visual interest while offering heat reflection. You might hear this referred to as a “knockdown” texture in the industry.
Why choose this over standard Cool Deck:
- Texture Control: The texture can be adjusted from fine to coarse to increase slip resistance.
- Durability: Acrylic modifiers make it harder and more resistant to staining than traditional cement-based toppings.
- Aesthetics: Hides minor imperfections in the underlying concrete better than flat coatings.
What affects price:
- Texture complexity
- Color customization
- Border designs
- Surface preparation needs
Stamped Concrete Overlay
$8-15 per square foot installed
Creates the look of stamped concrete without tearing out your existing deck. This option gives you the aesthetic of stone or slate without the massive expense of demolition.
Important considerations for Arizona:
- Maintenance: Requires resealing every 2-3 years to protect against UV fading.
- Heat Retention: Often runs hotter than lace or cool deck textures due to the sealer.
- Traction: We always add a non-slip grit to the sealer to prevent it from becoming a skating rink when wet.
What affects price:
- Pattern complexity
- Multiple colors
- Edge detailing
- Size of area
What’s Included in These Prices?
You need to know exactly what you are paying for. Standard pool deck coating projects should include:
✅ Surface cleaning: High-pressure washing (3000+ PSI) to remove dirt, oil, and loose debris. ✅ Crack repair: Chasing cracks with a V-blade and filling them with a flexible polymer. ✅ Primer/bonding agent: Critical for ensuring the new layer sticks to the old concrete. ✅ Multiple coating applications: Usually a base coat followed by the texture coat. ✅ Color and pattern application: The aesthetic finish. ✅ Sealer coat: Protection against UV rays and chlorine. ✅ Clean-up: Removal of all masking tape, paper, and debris.
Common Add-On Costs
We often see older pools in the Valley that need a bit more love before we can apply a coating.
- Major crack repair: $200-500 per crack (for structural stitching)
- Concrete leveling: $3-5 per square foot (grinding down trip hazards)
- Expansion joint replacement: $15-20 per linear foot (removing rotted wood/plastic and replacing with self-leveling mastic)
- Coping repair/replacement: $15-25 per linear foot
- Drainage improvements: $500-2,000 (installing Deco drains to prevent standing water)
Cost Examples: Real Phoenix Projects
Small Pool Deck (300 sq ft)
Think of a play pool with a narrow 3-foot perimeter.
- Basic Cool Deck: $1,800 - $2,400
- With moderate crack repair: $2,200 - $3,000
Medium Pool Deck (500 sq ft)
This is the standard size for a 15x30 ft diving pool with a patio area.
- Standard Cool Deck: $2,500 - $4,000
- Acrylic Lace with pattern: $3,500 - $5,500
Large Pool Deck (800 sq ft)
Includes extensive patio space, designated sunbathing areas, or multiple levels.
- Cool Deck: $4,000 - $6,500
- Stamped overlay: $7,000 - $10,000
Factors That Increase Cost
1. Pool Shape Complexity
Rectangles are easy to mask and spray. Freeform pools with curves and irregular edges take longer to coat properly.
2. Existing Deck Condition
Arizona hard water and sun are tough on concrete. Severely cracked or damaged concrete requires extensive prep work, such as grinding or acid washing, before coating.
3. Access Challenges
We need to get equipment to the pool. Difficult access (narrow gates under 36 inches, no rear access) can add 10-15% to labor costs due to manual hauling.
4. Multi-Level Decks
Steps, raised areas, and multi-level decks add complexity. Each vertical face must be hand-troweled or carefully sprayed.
5. Detailed Patterns
Custom designs, multiple colors, and decorative borders increase both material and labor costs.
DIY vs Professional: True Cost Comparison
DIY Cool Deck Kit
Many homeowners try this route first.
- Materials: $500-1,000
- Equipment rental: $100-200 (hopper gun, compressor, mixer)
- Your time: 20-30 hours
- Result: Often uneven texture and shorter lifespan due to improper surface prep.
Professional Installation
This is what you pay for peace of mind.
- Total cost: $2,000-5,000
- Your time: 0 hours
- Result: Even application, proper curing, and a warranty.
Our recommendation: Pool deck coating requires specific skills and equipment. We have fixed many DIY attempts that ended up costing more in the long run because the entire failed coating had to be ground off.
Getting the Best Value
1. Time It Right
Phoenix has distinct installation seasons. Fall (October-November) and Spring (March-April) offer the best temperatures for curing, which often results in a stronger bond.
2. Get Multiple Quotes
Compare at least 3 quotes from licensed contractors. Look for ROC license numbers to ensure they are bonded and insured in Arizona.
3. Ask About Warranties
Quality contractors offer workmanship warranties. In Arizona, a 2-year warranty against delamination is a solid industry standard.
4. Don’t Skip Prep Work
Proper surface preparation determines how long your coating lasts. Ask your contractor specifically how they handle existing cracks to prevent them from telegraphing through the new coating.
5. Consider Longevity
Sometimes spending a bit more on quality pays off over 10+ years. An acrylic lace overlay often outlasts a standard cement paint by several years.
Financing Options
Many homeowners finance pool deck projects to get the job done right immediately.
- Home improvement loans
- HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit)
- Credit cards with promotional rates
- Contractor financing (we can discuss options)
A $3,000 project at 0% for 12 months is just $250/month.
Get Your Free Estimate
Ready to find out exactly what your pool deck coating will cost? We provide free, no-obligation estimates for all Phoenix-area pool decks.
Contact us or call (602) 619-1234.
