As a professional pool contractor, I have extensive experience dealing with different types of pool decking. I understand that making the right decision about which type of pool decking to use is a critical part of the pool construction process. In this article, I will discuss the different types of pool decking available and their respective advantages and disadvantages. This information should help you determine the best option for your pool project.
As an expert on PoolGuide.com, there are several different options for pool decking. You can choose from concrete, pavers, stone, tile, or wood. Each decking option has its own unique properties, so it’s important to review all the options before making a decision.
Concrete is the most common type of pool decking and is usually the most affordable. It is durable and requires minimal maintenance. Pavers are also durable and come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. Stone and tile are very attractive and can be customized to match your home. Wood is a popular option as well, but requires more maintenance.
When comparing pool decking options, it’s important to consider the cost, maintenance, and durability. You should also consider the climate where you live, as some materials are better suited for certain climates.
It’s important to take all these factors into consideration to choose the best pool decking option for your home.
What Are the Different Types of Pool Decking?
Pool decking is an important part of any swimming pool and is essential for providing a safe, attractive and comfortable environment for visitors and swimmers alike. The right pool decking can not only make the pool look more attractive and inviting, but also enhance the overall functionality of the pool. On PoolGuide.com, we have a wide range of pool decking options available to suit any budget and design.
Types of Pool Decking
There are a variety of different types of pool decking available on PoolGuide.com; each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Concrete is one of the most popular choices, as it is easy to install, requires minimal maintenance, and is highly durable. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other decking. Wood decking is an excellent choice if you are looking for a more natural look. It has a warm, inviting feel and is easy to maintain, but it is more expensive than concrete and can be prone to damage from water and the elements.
Brick is another popular choice for decking, as it adds a classic, timeless look to any pool. It is also relatively easy to maintain, but can be more expensive than concrete. Pavers are another popular option, as they come in a variety of colors and styles and can be easily installed and maintained. They are also durable and require minimal maintenance.
How to Install Pool Decking
Installing pool decking is not a difficult task and can be done by a professional or DIY enthusiast. The first step is to measure the area where the decking will be placed to ensure that you have enough space. Once the measurements are taken, you can begin to lay the decking.
Start by laying the base material, such as gravel or sand, and then place the decking on top. Make sure that all the pieces are level and secure them with nails or screws. If you are using pavers, make sure to use a sand base and to use a sealer to protect them from the elements.
Benefits of Decking
Pool decking offers a number of benefits to any swimming pool. It provides a comfortable and safe environment for swimmers and visitors alike, as well as enhancing the overall aesthetic of the pool. It is also durable and requires minimal maintenance, which makes it an ideal choice for pool owners.
Other benefits include:
- Improved safety – Pool decking helps to reduce the risk of slips and falls due to its non-slip surface.
- Added value – Decking can add value to your home, as it can increase the appeal of your pool and make it more attractive.
- Protection – Pool decking can help protect the pool from the elements and keep it looking great.
- Easy to maintain – Pool decking is easy to maintain, as it requires minimal cleaning and maintenance.
Cost of Pool Decking
The cost of decking depends on the material used and the size of the area that needs to be covered. Generally, concrete is the most cost-effective option, followed by wood, pavers and brick.
| Material | Cost per sq. ft. |
|---|---|
| Concrete | $2 – $6 |
| Wood | $7 – $15 |
| Pavers | $7 – $15 |
| Brick | $10 – $20 |
Concrete vs Wood Decking
When choosing a type of pool decking, there are a few things you should consider. Concrete is the most popular choice and is easy to install and requires minimal maintenance, but it can be more expensive than wood. Wood is a more natural-looking option, but it can be prone to damage from water and the elements.
| Concrete | Wood |
|---|---|
| Easy to install | More natural look |
| Inexpensive | Can be prone to damage from water and the elements |
| Requires minimal maintenance | More expensive than concrete |
Brick vs Pavers Decking
Brick and pavers are excellent choices for pool decking, as they offer a classic, timeless look. It is more expensive than pavers but is also more durable and requires minimal maintenance. Pavers are more affordable and come in a variety of colors and styles, but they can be more prone to damage from water and the elements.
| Brick | Pavers |
|---|---|
| More expensive | More affordable |
| More durable | Comes in a variety of colors and styles |
| Requires minimal maintenance | More prone to damage from water and the elements |
Conclusion
When choosing a type of pool decking, it is important to consider the cost, maintenance requirements, and the overall look and feel you are trying to achieve. Concrete and wood are two of the most popular choices, while brick and pavers are also excellent options. On PoolGuide.com, we have a wide range of decking options available to suit any budget and design.
Frequently Ask Questions
What are the different types of pool decking?
Pool decking is an important factor when creating a backyard oasis. Pool decks provide space for lounging, entertaining, and other activities. There are several decking materials available to choose from. Each material offers its own benefits and drawbacks.
The most common types of pool decking are concrete, wood, composite, and tile. Concrete is a popular choice because it is durable and inexpensive. It is also easy to install and can be customized with various colors and patterns. Wood is also popular because it is natural and looks great, but it requires regular maintenance to prevent rotting and splintering. Composite materials, such as Trex and Fiberon, are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. Lastly, tile is a great option for pool decks as it comes in a variety of colors and designs.
What are the benefits of each type of pool decking?
Concrete is a popular choice for pool decks because of its durability and low cost. It is easy to install, and it can be customized with various colors and patterns. However, it can be prone to cracking in cold climates. Wood is also a popular option due to its natural look, but it requires regular maintenance to prevent rotting and splintering. Composite materials such as Trex and Fiberon are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. Lastly, tile is a great option for pool decks as it comes in a variety of colors and designs. It is also easy to clean and can be laid in a variety of patterns.
What are the drawbacks of each type of pool decking?
Concrete is a popular choice for pool decks because of its durability and low cost. However, it can be prone to cracking in cold climates. Wood is also popular due to its natural look, but it requires regular maintenance to prevent rotting and splintering. Composite materials such as Trex and Fiberon are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and low maintenance requirements, but they can be expensive. Lastly, tile is a great option for pool decks as it comes in various colors and designs, but it can be expensive to install and slippery when wet.
What are the best materials for decking in cold climates?
In cold climates, concrete is the best material for pool decking due to its durability and low cost. It is also easy to install, and it can be customized with various colors and patterns. However, it can be prone to cracking in cold climates. Composite materials such as Trex and Fiberon are also good options due to their durability and low maintenance requirements, although they can be expensive. Additionally, rubber or plastic decking can be a good choice as they are slip-resistant and less prone to cracking in cold climates.
What should be considered when selecting pool decking?
When selecting a decking material, it is important to consider the climate, budget and desired look. Wood and tile may be good options for warm climates due to their natural look and low maintenance requirements. Concrete, composites, and rubber or plastic decking may be better options for cold climates due to their durability and slip-resistance. Additionally, budget should be taken into account when selecting a material. Lastly, the desired look should be taken into consideration when selecting a material, as some materials, such as wood and tile, offer a more natural look. In contrast, others such as concrete and composites, offer a more modern look.
What is the average cost of pool decking?
The cost of pool decking varies depending on the material used. Concrete is generally the most affordable option, but it can be prone to cracking in cold climates. Wood is a popular option due to its natural look, but it requires regular maintenance to prevent rotting and splintering. Composite materials such as Trex and Fiberon can be expensive but offer durability and low maintenance requirements. Lastly, tile is a great option for pool decks as it comes in various colors and designs, but it can be expensive to install and slippery when wet. On average, decking costs range from $5 to $15 per square foot.
Swimming Pool Decking Options
Having explored the different types of pool decking, I have found that there is a wide array of options available to suit any budget, style, and needs. Whether you choose a stamped concrete, pavers, wood, or an aggregate surface, there are options to fit any budget and design. What’s more, each decking has its own unique benefits, so you can make the right decision for your backyard oasis.
