Top 5 Pool Deck Material Options for Residential and Commercial Pools

Gone are the days when we had to make do with a plain concrete pool deck. There are so many pool deck material options nowadays that creating a pool area has become more than just adding a facility, but improving the value of the property and the lives of the people who own it as well. Here are the top options for pool decks:

 

Stamped Concrete

A stamped concrete overlay is highly customizable. It offers a wide range of patterns that can be colored to your liking. An overlay can be installed quickly and easily on an existing pool deck. Some people are concerned about its slip-resistance but the stamped patterns promote enough grip to make it non-skid. You can add fine abrasives to the sealer coat to enhance its grip even further.

Natural Stone

Stone is quite a luxurious choice especially if the material needs to be imported from another city or state. The most common types of stone used on pool decks are flagstone and slate. These are long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing, and damaged stones can be easily replaced. As it is a luxurious option, it is also high maintenance. The surface needs to be resealed every season.

Travertine

This high-end material comes in a wide range of colors that do not fade. It stays cool to the touch and is highly slip-resistant. It is a popular option, being able to withstand extreme temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles. However, it needs to be resealed regularly because it is a very soft kind of stone. Travertine installation is labor-intensive and tedious.

Pavers

Also considered as a popular material among homeowners, pavers are affordable yet very durable. They come in various shapes and in a limited number of colors. Pavers are laid out beside each other without using grout. This makes it easier to replace any damaged piece without harming the surrounding pieces. All you have to do is pull the piece out and replace with another. The only downside to pavers is that it can be quite rough to hands and bare feet.

Brick

Bricks are often used on borders and copings, but rarely on the entire deck. This material, like pavers, can be easily removed and replaced. It comes in one shape but can be arranged in many different patterns like running brick, stacked bond, herringbone, and more. Brick is a long-lasting material that can withstand most damaging elements. It is, however, very porous so it needs to be sealed and resealed regularly.

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A Guide to Planning Your Pool Deck Design

A swimming pool is probably the most awesome addition you can install in your backyard space. It is a source of fun, relaxation, and even stress relief. An awesome pool deserves an equally awesome pool deck. Planning one is not an easy feat. It involves a lot of elements and each one needs to suit your needs and wants perfectly. There is also the challenge of deciding on one or two types of material out of a huge selection. Not to mention having to choose the right color palette for the entire deck. Before you pull out your hair from frustration, check out this short guide to help you make small but meaningful decisions and to create an overall design concept.

• What Theme Do You Have in Mind?

A theme is important because it draws every element together. If you just design on a whim, there is a huge chance that it would be chaotic. By sticking to one concept, you are able to make all the elements in a pool deck harmonize with each other. Say, you want a tropical theme. Then you think natural stone, greenery, sandy white or beige deck colors, and anything that gives the impression of beach and sun.

• Would You Like to Include Greenery?

Softscape is optional, however, there are many benefits to having some plants around the pool area. If you do not have a green thumb, there is no need to set up a garden. You can just have pots of plants strategically placed in different areas around the pool deck.

• Do You Want a Shaded Area on the Deck?

It is important to think ahead for this because you would need to determine which area of the deck would actually benefit from a shade. This means you have to monitor the pool area for a day as the sun moves. You have to observe how the rays of the sun fall on the pool deck. You can go from a simple hanging fabric to a more elaborate one, like a cabana.

• What Source of Light Do You Prefer?

Lighting is a crucial element in any outdoor pool deck. Aside from its contribution to the aesthetic appeal of the deck when night falls, it also makes the area safe and secure. There are many options for lighting. You can add lamp posts or hang fixtures on the exterior of the house. Lights in the pool are also highly recommended. Use LED lights as they illuminate better and are very energy-efficient. If you prefer something more outdoorsy, tiki lights, torches, and fire pits are great options.

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