Your swimming pool is surrounded by a hardscape called a deck. Traditionally it was made of wood. Nowadays most pool decks are made of concrete.
Maybe you have one that’s made of a different material. But have you ever wondered what it would be like if you have a pool deck made of a different material; how it would look like compared to yours, how it would feel to your feet, how it would create a different feel and theme for your home, how safe it is, how cool it is to touch, how slip-resistant it is, how durable it is in comparison, or how versatile the designs you can apply to it are?
Well, most swimming pool owners do. And this also applies to ones whose pool decks have collected damages, natural wear, and tear, or had simply grown old and boring. Then one would start to consider pool deck repair, resurfacing, or refinishing. And then the possibility of new pool deck material comes to mind.
Pool decks act like a picture frame that can provide multi-functionality, relaxation, and hours of family fun. But like every pool component, the material it is made of will always have its advantages and probably some disadvantages against other pool decking types, at least to some degree. So let’s take a look at what materials are available for swimming pool decks, and what their pros and cons are.
Different Pool Decking Materials
Pavers & Bricks
Pros: They are not permanent after applied, so they are versatile, interchangeable, and come with a huge variety of designs. They move with the ground underneath, so they are resistant to cracks and repairs are easy to do.
Cons: Because pavers are installed piece by piece, the joints in between can expand and weeds can sprout in between these spaces. Some areas may sink, cause irregular surfaces, and can become too hot and uncomfortable to walk on bare feet. Although they are easier to repair and replace, cleaning them may be a pain because of the space in between the pavers. Bricks may chip and need replacing.
Stone
Pros: Stone paving has a wide variety of design options. With their dark and natural colors, they are very appealing to the eyes and can easily give one’s pool deck that refined and luxurious look. It can be put on top of concrete. Some stones have heat-absorbing properties.
Cons: Stones are very expensive
Wood
Pros: Maybe the least expensive choice depending on the type, it adds the warm, natural, hand-designed look, can create a more natural theme to your home.
Cons: Wood requires high maintenance to make its colors and finishing last for a long time.
Rubber
Pros: They may be the safest surface available for pool decks. They are slip-resistant and absorb shocks. They are also very durable and easy to install.
Cons: They are not versatile when it comes to designs. If there’s a certain look or feel you’re trying to achieve for your pool deck, you’re virtually limited. It cannot match the look and feel of other materials.
Concrete
Pros: Faster installation as compared to stones or pavers. Concrete probably has the most versatility when it comes to design, as it can mimic other materials that cost so much more, like natural stones, clay tiles, bricks, wood, and many more. Value is very good, as concrete costs much less than pavers and stones, yet proper maintenance can be very durable and last for years. It is very easy to clean and maintain. It can even mimic other decking materials’ properties, like slip resistance and heat reflectivity by utilizing some features available to concrete.
Cons: The ground underneath concrete can create issues that cause cracks. Depending on the quality of concrete, cracks can occur over time and need patching and filling. Colors can fade with improper care. Professional installation is recommended for this type of pool decking material.
If you’re planning to start a new project or just need your pool deck repaired and resurfaced, there are a bunch of pool decking materials you can choose from. But the most important things to consider are in order: safety, comfort, cost, and aesthetics. Do not go for a course and bumpy one, as it is uncomfortable. Make sure it has slip-resistant properties. Make sure you can walk on its bare feet during hot seasons. And lastly, make sure you are satisfied with the new look and feel they would provide to your home. Look at your options above, did you find one that’s right for you?
