• Concrete overlays add style to an outdoor pool deck.Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
  
  An outdoor pool can add luxury and style to your home. Pool decks often surround pools and are great for lounging, outdoor events and spending time with family and friends. If you want to update the look of your pool deck to better coordinate with your home's motif, there are several products you need to get started.
  
  

Concrete Toppings

• Concrete creates the subfloor for your pool deck. It can be left as is, but for added elegance and style you might choose to use a concrete topping to frame out the pool space. The concrete overlay should match your home's exterior decor. For example, if you have a Spanish style home, you might choose terracotta ceramic tiles to cover your pool deck. Consider the usability and function of your chosen overlay. For instance, be aware of the slickness of the surface of your concrete toppings. Many titles feature sanded or textured elements to reduce the chance of slipping on the tiles, making them safer for framing your pool.
  
  

Tools

• There are several tools involved with resurfacing your pool deck. If your pool deck needs a full upheaval, you need concrete to create the foundation. If you are installing a concrete overlay, such as ceramic or polymer resin tiles, you need a water-resistant thinset mortar to affix the tile to the cement. You also need a sanded grout to fill the spaces in between the tiles. To install tiles, you need grout floats, trowels, sponges and tile spacers. If you plan to paint the concrete as opposed to adding an overlay, you need brushes, paints and water-resistant sealants. You also need painter's tape and scrapers. For added protection, consider wearing eyewear, coveralls and gloves.
  
  

Paints and Stains

• If you choose to keep the concrete deck as is without adding any overlays, you may choose to paint or stain the cement to better coordinate with your home's motif. Concrete is a very porous material which may require several layers of paint or stain before you reach a desired saturation of color. Because your deck will have extensive water exposure, you need to pick a paint or stain specifically designed for exterior spaces that can withstand the elements.