Why Sealing Travertine Pool Deck is Important (2023 Guide)

Having worked in the travertine production and supply sector for years, we have lost count of the number of times we’ve heard homeowners say, “It’s just a stone; it’s strong enough on its own.”

Yes, travertine is a robust and elegant material, but it isn’t invincible.

As with anything precious, it requires a certain level of care to maintain its inherent beauty and functionality.

That’s where sealing travertine pool deck comes into play.

In this post we shall explain the importance of sealing your travertine pool deck. So. let us get started!


Risks of an Unsealed Travertine Pool Deck

The tiny holes and capillaries that give travertine its unique look are also its Achilles’ heel.

These pores can absorb water and organic materials, which could lead to mold, mildew, and even algae.

If you own a saltwater pool, the situation gets more precarious as travertine is reactive to salt.

Failure to seal the deck can lead to permanent stains and dark spots that are hard to remove.

As a professional, We have seen numerous decks deteriorating due to neglect, with algae-filled cracks and crevices that make the surface not just ugly but slippery and dangerous.

These issues lead many to seek the services of a professional pool resurfacing companies.

The truth is that many of these situations could have been avoided with proper sealing of your travertine pool deck.


Types of Pool Deck Sealers

From years of our travertine business experience, we have had the opportunity to work with various types of pool deck sealers.

Each pool deck sealer has its benefits and pitfalls, and choosing the right one for your specific situation is crucial.

Here’s an insider’s take on the types of travertine pool deck sealers available:

Penetrating Sealers:

A penetrating sealer sinks deep into the travertine stone and offers the best protection, especially if you have a saltwater pool.

It fills up the tiny holes and capillaries in the travertine, making it less prone to water damage.

These sealers don’t alter the look of the stone and maintain its natural beauty.

From our industry knowledge and experience, we recommend using High-Performance sealer from TSS Pro.

This is an ideal penetrating sealer you can use for sealing your pool deck.

Enhancing Sealers:

If you want to highlight the natural colors of your travertine, than using enhancing sealers is the right choice.

They tend to darken the stone and bring out its inherent hues, making them more pronounced.

It is like seeing your stone under a layer of water all-year-round.

Through our years of experience, we have identified that homeowners and contractors consider using Color Enhancer Sealer from Black Diamond Stoneworks as a preferred choice to use if enhancing color is a priority for the pool deck.

Breathable Sealers

Don’t ignore the need for your travertine stone to breathe.

A breathable sealer allows any trapped moisture to escape, reducing the risk of internal damage that can cause cracks and splits over time.

Through our years of experience in the travertine business, we have noticed that homeowners and contractors opt for Ultimate Travertine Seal from Advanced Sealers and Cleaners as their preferred choice of breathable sealers.


Step-by-Step Guide For Sealing Travertine Pool Deck

Let us now cover the step by step procedure to follow for sealing the travertine pool deck.

Step 1: Preliminary Cleaning

We can’t stress how pivotal cleaning your pool deck is.

If your pool deck is dirty or has existing mold or mildew, sealing it would essentially trap these elements, leading to more significant problems down the line.

Step 2: The Seal Application

How you apply the sealer depends on its type.

Always read the manufacturer’s guidelines carefully.

From our experience, most penetrating sealers work well with a simple brush or roller application.

We found this YouTube video on sealing pool deck to be very resourceful. Definitely check it out.

Step 3: Curing Time

The sealer needs time to cure and bond with the stone.

Depending on the brand and type of sealer, this could range from a few hours to a few days.

Step 4: Quality Checks

Perform a water droplet test.

If the water beads up, you’ve done a good job. If it gets absorbed, you may need another coat.


Should You Hire Professional Help For Sealing Travertine Pool Deck?

Sealing might seem like a straightforward procedure, but it is more complex than it appears.

Understanding how different sealers react to various conditions, the correct method of application, and the timing are just a few aspects where professional expertise can be invaluable.

From our experience we have observed that by hiring a right professional you can ensure that the sealer is appropriately applied, increasing the lifespan of your pool deck by up to two years before the need for resealing arises.


How Does Sealing Pool Deck Impact The Aesthetics?

A well-sealed travertine pool deck isn’t just about durability; it is also about aesthetics.

When sealed, the stone’s colors remain vibrant, and the risk of unsightly stains and spots is significantly reduced.

The result? A pool deck that remains the center of attention and keeps up your pool’s looks for years to come.


When To Do Re-Sealing of Your Travertine Pool Deck?

A good-quality sealer can last up to two years, but this duration can vary.

Conduct a water droplet test once a year to assess the need for resealing of your pool deck.

Remember, each time you reseal your deck, you are extending its lifespan, keeping it safe, and maintaining its natural beauty.


Why Homeowners Love Travertine Pool Deck

Travertine pool copings and decks have become increasingly popular for a multitude of reasons.

Aside from the natural, classic beauty that travertine offers, its functional benefits cannot be overstated.

Travertine tends to remain cool to touch, even on the hottest summer days.

Unlike other materials like concrete or dark-colored stones that can burn your feet, travertine offers a comfortable experience.

Moreover, it gives a sense of the outdoors right before your eyes, creating a natural-style haven in your own backyard.


Final Words

Given the cost of travertine and the expense involved in pool deck installation, sealing is a small but crucial investment.

When done correctly, it ensures that your pool deck remains a beautiful and functional extension of your home year-round.

We have seen the pitfalls of ignoring this vital maintenance step, and we can say that sealing your travertine pool deck is not only an optional luxury but also a necessity.

When it comes to maintaining your home’s value and your quality of life, a little prevention can go a long way.

So, take it from a seasoned professional: seal your pool deck and save yourself from future troubles.


P.S. We sell premium quality travertine pavers, copings, tiles and mosaics. Order your free sample today! Or call us at: (855) 588 7272.

We also have additional useful resources about travertine pool decks such as: maintenance tips, pros & cons and travertine vs concreate pool decks, definitely check them out.