Make Slippery Pool Decks and Wet Areas Less Slippery
Looking for a non-slip pool deck coating? Pool surrounds, wet walkways, and similar areas need traction that accounts for regular water exposure and foot traffic. The No-Slip SKID SAFE System™ combines SKID SAFE™ sealer with ND AGGREGATE™ traction grains to create a textured walking surface.
The right preparation depends on what your surface is made of. Identify the material and its existing finish before choosing products or beginning an application.
Where is this system used?
The system is intended for challenging walking areas such as pool surrounds, exterior walkways, wet entrances, and other floors that frequently become wet. ND AGGREGATE™ adds physical texture to the SKID SAFE™ coating.
Always assess the surface condition, drainage, cleaning needs, and expected traffic before selecting a treatment.
Which preparation does your surface need?
| Existing surface | Preparation to review before coating |
|---|---|
| Unsealed concrete | CONCRETE BOND & CLEAN™ pretreatment |
| Stone or tile | SUPER BOND & CLEAN™ pretreatment |
| Sound, sealed or painted surface | Check compatibility and the applicable SKID SAFE™ instructions before applying |
Surface preparation affects adhesion and performance. If you are unsure whether a deck is sealed, painted, tiled, or bare concrete, contact NDS with photos and the approximate area.
How does the No-Slip SKID SAFE System™ work?
The system has two principal components plus a pretreatment depending on the application surface:
SKID SAFE™ forms the sealer coating.
ND AGGREGATE™ is broadcast into the wet first coat to add texture and traction.
- PRETREATMENT: SUPER BOND & CLEAN™ for tiles, CONCRETE BOND & CLEAN™ for unsealed concrete
Five subsequent coats of SKID SAFE™ secure the aggregate within the coating, with every coat completely dry before the next is applied.
What should you plan for before installation?
Measure the area. Record the square footage so you can determine the sealer, pretreatment, and aggregate quantities needed.
Plan for drying and curing. The aggregate instructions estimate 15–20 minutes of drying per coat under suitable conditions and 48 hours of curing after the sixth coat. Humidity, temperature, and airflow can lengthen those times. Plan how you will keep people and water off the area while it cures.
Test a small area. The aggregate instructions recommend practising the broadcast technique before coating the full floor. A test also lets you assess the resulting texture and appearance.
For a pool facility, shared entrance, or other busy location, arrange the work schedule around the full instructions and your site’s access requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Will the coating be invisible?
SKID SAFE™ sealer is designed to be visually subtle. ND AGGREGATE™ adds noticeable texture, and its visibility depends on the floor and aggregate colour. Test an area to assess the finished appearance.
Is the preparation the same for concrete and tile?
No. The SKID SAFE™ application requires CONCRETE BOND & CLEAN™ for unsealed concrete and SUPER BOND & CLEAN™ for stone or tile. Confirm the existing finish before selecting a pretreatment.
How many coats are needed?
The SKID SAFE™ and ND AGGREGATE™ instructions specify six coats of SKID SAFE™ when aggregate is used. Follow the complete data sheets for the application sequence and cure time.
Can I clean the finished surface with my usual cleaner?
The ND AGGREGATE™ instructions call for a neutral pH cleaner and describe cleaning methods suited to the textured surface. Review the maintenance instructions before using other chemicals or equipment.
Is this the same product as the shower tile kit?
No. The Shower Tile Kit is sized and instructed for a tiled shower floor. This page concerns a larger, textured system for pool surrounds and other demanding wet walking areas.
Find the right system for your surface
Use our SKID SAFE Project Selector Tool to identify what you need. Or alternatively, tell us your surface type, whether it is sealed or painted, its approximate square footage, and how the area is used. We can help identify the appropriate components and quantities.
