Keeping Pool Surrounds Safe in Summer: Non-Slip Solutions That Last

Summer is peak season for backyard pools, and it’s also when slip risk around them peaks. Wet feet, sunscreen residue, constant splash-out and heavy barefoot traffic turn a smooth surround into a hazard quickly.

Getting slip resistance right is straightforward, but the detail matters — including a specification most people miss.

The Rating That Matters

Luxapool® Poolside & Paving is a water-based decorative coating with a P5 slip resistance rating — the highest classification in the Australian pendulum test scale for wet pedestrian surfaces.

But the rating depends on how it’s applied. Colormaker specify that build coats must go on with a 10mm nap roller at approximately 2m² per litre to achieve P5. Apply it with a fine roller or spray it and you get a smoother film — and you don’t get the rating.

That single detail is the difference between a compliant non-slip surface and an ordinary painted one.

Why Summer Increases the Risk

More swimming means more water on the surrounds, more sunscreen transferring onto the paving, and more people walking on it barefoot at speed. UV and heat also wear the surface over time, gradually reducing grip on coatings that were fine when new.

Common Causes of Slippery Surrounds

• Smooth or sealed surfaces with no slip profile
• Algae and mould in shaded or poorly drained areas
• Sunscreen and body oil residue — the most underrated cause
• Worn or polished coatings, particularly at the top of steps
• Poor drainage allowing water to sit
• A gloss coat applied over the top of a non-slip finish

The Gloss Trade-Off

Worth knowing before you add one: Unicryl® HD Clear Glaze deepens colour, adds gloss and makes cleaning easier — but it reduces anti-slip properties.

Colormaker specifically do not recommend a second coat of Clear Glaze on trafficable surfaces. If slip resistance is why you’re coating the area, think carefully before glossing over it.

Where It’s Suitable

Pool surrounds, decks and coping, on pebblecrete, concrete, paved and timber surfaces — plus pathways, outdoor living areas, disability ramps and boat decks.

Colormaker’s guides cover pedestrian traffic. For driveways or anywhere vehicles turn and brake, or for commercial areas needing a more aggressive texture, get in touch and we’ll get you the right specification.

Keeping the Grip

Even a P5 surface loses traction if it’s dirty. Sunscreen film and algae are slippery regardless of what’s underneath.

• Wash with a fine jet hose or soft bristle broom and mild detergent, then rinse with fresh water
• Clean spills as they happen
• Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive pads — both polish the surface and reduce grip
• Check shaded corners and low-drainage spots regularly
• Fix worn patches early, particularly at steps and pool edges

FAQs

Is a P5 surface uncomfortable underfoot?

No. It’s textured rather than abrasive — designed for bare feet, since that’s the entire use case.

Can I coat over existing concrete or pebblecrete?

Yes, once it’s properly cleaned and prepared. Bare or porous surfaces need Acrylmeric Superseal Primer first. Pebblecrete takes a heavier base coat — 1 to 1.5m² per litre — to fill the profile before build coats go on.

Does it fade in the sun?

It’s formulated for long-lasting resistance to UV, mould and fungal attack in Australian conditions.

How long before we can use the area?

Soft-sole foot traffic after 12 to 24 hours. Outdoor furniture needs 14 days under good drying conditions — longer in cooler or humid weather.

Can slippery areas be spot-treated?

Small areas can be repaired, but matching texture and colour across a patch is difficult. Recoating the whole area gives consistent grip, which matters when the point is safety.

When should I do the work?

Not below 15°C ambient or above 35°C, and not if rain or sub-12°C minimums are forecast within 7 days. Spring and autumn, not mid-summer.