What Makes Encore Coatings COOL! Different from Epoxy or Paint?

When it comes to resurfacing your pool deck, patio, or concrete surfaces, the options can feel overwhelming. You’ve probably come across terms like epoxy, paint, or even DIY coatings on the shelves at your local home improvement store. And then there’s COOL! by Encore Coatings, a name that keeps coming up in contractor circles and homeowner forums alike.

So what’s the difference? Why are so many homeowners and professionals choosing COOL! over traditional options like epoxy or outdoor paint?

Let’s break it down in plain English, no sales fluff, just real talk about what works, what lasts, and what’s worth your time and money.

1. COOL! Pool Deck Coating Is Designed Specifically for Pool Decks

Most epoxies and paints are multipurpose. You can slap them on garage floors, warehouse concrete, or even basements. But that’s the problem, they’re generalists.

COOL!, on the other hand, was engineered exclusively for outdoor surfaces exposed to heat, water, UV rays, and foot traffic.

Cool Pool™ system is built around what your pool deck endures: hot sun, chlorine, splashing water, and constant barefoot traffic.

2. It Stays Cool, Even in the Summer Heat

If you’ve ever walked across a pool deck on a blazing July afternoon, you know the pain (literally). Standard paints and epoxies absorb and retain heat. Encore’s Cool Pool™ technology reflects UV rays and reduces surface temperatures by up to 38%.

That’s not just science, it’s summer comfort. Your kids, pets, and guests will thank you.

3. It Bonds Into the Surface, Not Just On It

Epoxy coatings often form a hard layer on top of concrete. Paints sit on the surface, too. Over time, they can chip, peel, or wear off, especially in areas with sun, water, or freeze-thaw cycles.

Encore’s pool deck paint has a water-based acrylic formula soaks into the concrete, forming a molecular bond that won’t delaminate. That means no bubbling, peeling, or cracking like you might see with typical paints and epoxies.

4. Slip-Resistance Is Built Right In

Safety matters, especially around pools.

COOL! is textured to provide natural traction, even when wet. No need for extra additives or separate traction layers. It’s barefoot-friendly, yet still reduces the risk of slips.

Try finding that with a glossy epoxy.

5. It’s Eco-Friendly and Water-Based

Most epoxies and oil-based paints are packed with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful to both your lungs and the environment.

Encore’s formulas are:

  • Low-VOC
  • Water-based
  • Eco-conscious without sacrificing performance

That’s a win for your family, your yard, and the planet.

6. Repairing and Recoating Is a Breeze

Let’s say your dog claws the surface, or your deck develops a little wear after years of use. With epoxy, repairs often mean sanding down the entire area or starting over.

COOL! by Encore Coatings is designed to be easily repaired or refreshed. With touch-up products and a flexible coating system that bonds to itself, you can keep your deck looking brand-new without a full redo.

7. You Don’t Need to Be a Pro to Use It

Encore’s products were designed with contractors in mind, but they’re also DIY-friendly. With easy instructions, step-by-step videos, and application tools, even first-timers can get stunning results.

But if you’d rather not do it yourself? Encore has a network of certified installers ready to help.

8. The Finish Looks Great

Let’s face it, some paints and coatings just don’t look good. They streak, fade, or look like someone rushed through it in an afternoon.

COOL! gives you a smooth, modern, textured finish that looks high-end, feels great underfoot, and elevates your entire outdoor space. It’s not just functional, it’s beautiful.

Is “COOL”Worth It?

If you’re looking for:

  • A pool deck that stays cooler in summer
  • A finish that resists peeling, flaking, or fading
  • An eco-conscious product that’s safe for families
  • A long-term solution that’s easy to maintain

…then yes. COOL! from Encore Coatings offers something that epoxies and paints just can’t match.

You’re not just painting your concrete pool deck, you’re investing in comfort, safety, and curb appeal.