Types of Pool Decks: Pros and Cons

There are many different pros and cons when it comes to each possible pool deck material. No matter what, there are things to consider when choosing materials for the deck, as well as the deck itself. Some of these qualities include making sure the material does not become too slippery when it gets wet, making sure that the material is not coarse or bumpy, and making sure that the material is resistant to corrosive chemicals. Things to consider before choosing a pool deck are what you will be using it for. Certain decks have a lot to offer when it comes to appeal, but they sacrifice safety because of it.

Concrete

This is one of the most common pool decks. You’ll see this style in many apartments or townhome complexes, and for good reason. It is very easy to clean and maintain. Another good feature of the concrete deck is that it feels comfortable to walk on. They can handle a lot of traffic. The only two drawbacks are that they can become extremely slippery when wet and they have a very plain look.

Brick

Brick is also common. This material doesn’t get hot in extreme temperatures. Like concrete, it is  durable and easy to maintain. A con is that moss can grow on it. The residue from the moss can make the surface slippery when wet. When it comes to aesthetics, brick looks a little more attractive than concrete.

Pavers

At first glance, pavers seem to combine brick and concrete to make a surface similar to tile. Pavers are cheap to install and maintain. Interlocking pavers can also be frost proof. The bad thing about pavers is that they can shift if they don’t have a permanent border or frame. If you’re going for an industrial pool look, then pavers would work well.

Wood

Wooden pool decks are often the most attractive. It’s also not as slippery as brick or concrete. But, there are a couple cons. Wood is a direct heat conductor. It can catch fire. Wooden pool decks also need constant maintenance as the surface inevitably breaks and cracks.

Stone

Stone is another attractive choice. It’s also the most slip resistant choice. There are many different stone varieties as well. However, installing a stone deck is very expensive. And if you happen to have a darker shade of stone installed, the surface can get extremely hot.

Tile

Tile also has a world of varieties to choose from. It also doesn’t get as hot as stone. However, it is by far the most slippery surface. It can also start cracking, requiring a lot of maintenance.

Artificial turf

Since turf is essentially fake grass, its slip resistant. That cannot be said for any other surface out there. Also, turf is the most aesthetically neutral of any deck. The downsides to turf is that it can get extremely hot and it requires a ton of maintenance.

Multiple materials

This creates a diverse pool deck that addresses each issue as best as possible. But, it can often make a pool look unappealing. If your pool gets used a lot, then this isn’t a bad idea.

Author’s short bio:

Authentic Plaster and tile was founded by Diane Pierce and her family 35 years ago in Texas. Their specialty ranges from simple remodels with pool surface, tile, coping to complete swimming pool plastering and replastering services in Dallas TX by adding tan ledge, benches, water features and more. Also their own developed and manufactured pool surface material, Hydra Products, is warranted in-house and gives not only material warranty but also labor.