There are a variety of materials that can be used for pool deck installation. When it comes to deciding which material to use, there are many factors to consider, such as cost, durability, and appearance. Here is a look at the most common materials used for pool decks and how to choose between all of the different options.
Important Factors to Consider
- Size of the pool deck
- Location of the pool deck (indoors or outdoors)
- Appearance desired
Pool decks can either be indoors or outdoors. If your pool deck is going to be indoors, you will need a different material than if it were outdoors. The size of your pool deck is another important factor for choosing a material. Some materials are better suited for smaller areas, while others work well for large spaces.
Do you want a certain type of appearance? Perhaps you’d rather have an authentic stone look instead of ceramic tiles in your outdoor space. Whatever your preference may be, there are many options available depending on these factors that will easily fit into your lifestyle and budget.
Types of Pool Deck Materials
Concrete:
Concrete is a popular choice for pool deck installation because it is durable and relatively inexpensive. It can also be stained or painted to match any desired color. If you choose concrete, ensure that it is colored throughout and not just on the surface. A concrete deck with only the top layer colored will wear away over time and leave you with a noticeable line where the paint has worn off. If you prefer to have an indoor pool deck, then this is not your best option because it can get slippery when wet.
Pros:
- Durable
- Inexpensive
- Many color options are available
Cons:
- Can be slippery when wet
- Not suitable for an indoor pool deck
Pavers:
Pavers are another popular choice for pool decks because they can be made to resemble a multitude of different surfaces. There is a huge variety in color as well as design, so you won’t have any trouble finding one that suits your lifestyle and taste. Pavers tend to last longer than other types of materials because they are slightly raised from the ground and allow airflow underneath them. While there isn’t much maintenance necessary with pavers, it is advised that you sweep them regularly to rid them of debris and dirt build-up, which can occur by standing water or rain. Pavers tend to be slippery when wet, but this can easily be avoided by using an outdoor mat specifically designed for safety around water areas.
Pros:
- Many color and design options
- Long-lasting
- Little maintenance needed
Cons:
- Can be slippery when wet
- Some people don’t like the look of them
Ceramic Tiles:
Ceramic tiles are a popular choice for pool decks because they come in a variety of colors and designs. They are also very affordable, making it easy to find one that fits your budget. One downside to ceramic tiles is that they can be slippery when wet. However, this can easily be avoided by using an outdoor mat specifically designed for safety around water areas. Ceramic tiles also require regular cleaning and sealing to keep them looking their best. If you choose ceramic tiles for your pool deck installation, make sure to check the variety of sizes and shapes available to avoid creating an uneven surface.
Pros:
- Many color and design options
- Long-lasting
- Little maintenance needed
Cons:
- Some tiles can be slippery when wet
- Can crack if not installed properly
- Requires regular cleaning and sealing to keep looking new
Wood:
Wood is another popular choice for pool decks because it is aesthetically pleasing, easy to walk on barefoot, and comfortable. It can also be stained or painted if desired. If you choose wood for your pool deck installation, make sure that you select a type of wood that will stand up to the outdoor elements without warping or rotting. Wood can be extremely slippery when wet, so to avoid accidents around water areas, it is advised to use an outdoor mat specifically designed for safety around water areas.
Pros:
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Can be stained or painted
- Comfortable underfoot
Cons:
- Not suitable if opting for an indoor pool deck
- Can warp or rot depending on what type of wood is chosen
- Slippery when wet
- Requires regular cleaning and sealing to keep looking new
Synthetic Decking Materials:
There is a wide variety of synthetic decking materials to choose from, all unique in appearance and design. Synthetic decking is most popular because it doesn’t require any upkeep aside from regular cleaning, but this can be done easily. You can safely walk barefooted on artificial surfaces for the most part, though some people may experience discomfort after long periods of time due to insufficient cushioning. Synthetic decking comes in a range of colors and patterns, so you’ll have no trouble finding one that suits your taste and lifestyle perfectly. This material is a great choice if you live in an area where termites or other wood-eating bugs are a problem as they cannot eat through this type of surface material.
Pros:
- Doesn’t require much upkeep
- Comes in a range of colors and patterns
Cons:
- Not suitable for indoor pool decks
- Some people may experience discomfort from lack of cushioning underfoot
Stone:
Stone is a popular choice for pool decks because it is long-lasting and can be easily matched to the surrounding landscape. It is also slip-resistant, making it a safe option for pool deck installation. Stone does require some maintenance, however, as it needs to be sealed every few years to maintain its color and prevent staining. If you choose stone for your pool deck installation, make sure that you have a professional install it as it can be tricky to do on your own.
Pros:
- Long-lasting
- Easily matched to the surrounding landscape
- Slip-resistant
Cons:
- Requires regular sealing to maintain color and prevent staining
- Difficult to install on your own
Final Thoughts
There are many different types of materials to choose from when installing a pool deck. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, but you’re sure to find the perfect material for your needs and preferences. When choosing a material, keep in mind how often the deck will be used, whether it will be used primarily for swimming or sunbathing, and what your budget is. No matter which material you choose, be sure to have a professional install it to avoid any dangerous accidents.