Vinyl covered steps have been a slip concern since they were first installed before there were any other options like plastic, or fiberglass models. With recent trends consumers are looking for vinyl pools which look more like concrete pools. So more vinyl covered steps are being sold with pattern over the step for the "look". Many dealers are concerned over the risk of slipping as are many of the liner manufacturers. This is such a worry that the vinyl film makers developed textured vinyl just for steps, but there were only available in solid colors. A few years ago they began producing the textured material with limited patterns like the reflections.
However these textured materials generally do not have any clear coat since that would increase the risk of slipping. That means the steps will be prone to stains from worms and or leaves. Despite the downside consumers still desire the look of all pattern over their steps and why not is sure does look good. After a few slips they wish they had selected something different. The real problem here is no matter what choice they make there is a major difference in the "look".
Kayden Manufacturing is now marketing a spray on epoxy with grit. After extensive laboratory testing it is ready for use in your customers pools. It can be applied to new or existing vinyl covered steps very easily. Best of all it is fairly inexpensive too. I suggest you give it a try on some older liners and see for yourself how effective it is in ending slippery steps. It is a great opportunity to earn extra money and solve a nagging problem for many pool owners.
Comments
Now with well over 300 pool steps treated with our slip stop spray, we have not received any complaints from the end users. We have been informed that there are five instances of the transparent epoxy turning somewhat milky. We have reason to believe this is either a drying issue (not allowing sufficient time to dry before submersion) and or a water chemistry related issue. Despite the potential effect there is still nothing out there that provides a more effective slip reduction potential. Again not one homeowner has complained about the effect in fact some of them liked the fact it made the treads more visible. To learn more check out www.kaydenliners.com