Textured surfaces with low-heat retention are the best materials for pool areas for their non-slip gripping capabilities and burn prevention while being under direct sunlight. Composite decking will prevent the growth of algae while the stones in stone or concrete pavers are entirely waterproof.

What decking is best around a pool?

Wood or wood plastic composite (WPC) are best for raised decks around above-ground pools. And if you've got the skills, you can do the installation yourself. Note that wood or WPC can also be used for in-ground pools.

What is best surface around a pool?

Poured concrete has been the material of choice for pool decking for decades because it's durable and water-resistant. When finished with a brushed surface, poured concrete allows swimmers to walk barefooted without the risk of slipping.

Can you put decking around a pool?

Timber decking is probably the most popular material for pool owners, which is primarily on account of its versatility, its cost effectiveness, and the variety of types in which its available, including Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, Jarrah, Mahogany and others.

How long does pool decking last?

With proper cleaning and maintenance a SUNDEK surface can last 10 to 15 years, depending on use. We have seen surfaces last up to 25 years!

Concrete Decking Pros and Cons

Why is my pool deck cracking?

Your concrete pool deck can crack in cold weather due to freezing and thawing cycles, which have similar effects as expansion and contraction in hot weather. When water molecules within the concrete freeze, they can over-expand, causing the concrete to break or crack.

Is stamped concrete slippery around pools?

As a decorative surface of faux stonework, stamped concrete does not have the usual roughness of concrete. This means — though more affordable than the real stone — stamped concrete has the potential to be somewhat slippery in weather-prone, exterior settings like a pool.

How much does it cost to build a deck around a pool?

On average, building a pool deck costs around $5,000. Most homeowners pay between $3,000 and $12,000 for this project. Where you fall on that range depends on the materials you choose, the size of the patio, and the difficulty of the terrain.

Can you put a deck around an inground pool?

Most people either build a patio or deck around their swimming pool, or sometimes both. Decks, in particular, are usually made out of wood and are some of the most popular add-ons to inground pool projects.

What should I use around my pool?

FINISH OPTIONS FOR A DECORATIVE CONCRETE POOL DECK

• Stamped Concrete. To create pool decks that resemble natural slate, flagstone or brick, stamped concrete is the ideal choice. ...
• Colored Concrete. ...
• Stenciled Concrete. ...
• Rock-Salt Finished Concrete. ...
• Exposed Aggregate. ...
• Brushed or Broom Finish. ...
• Concrete Pavers. ...
• Wood Decks.

Is it cheaper to deck or pave around pool?

When choosing between decking or paving, consider that decking materials tend to be more affordable than paving materials. However, these costs can be offset with the maintenance costs of decking that paving does not require.

What is the coolest material for pool deck?

One of the coolest options for pool deck surfaces are textured acrylic coatings. A coating that's made of concrete and acrylic will absorb less heat than other materials. Texture also makes the surface feel cooler to the touch because when a person walks on it, their bare feet are exposed to less surface area.

How large should a deck be around a pool?

A good rule of thumb is for a deck's square footage to be at least the same as your pool's square footage. To illustrate with a simple example, say a rectangle pool is 15 feet wide by 30 feet long. With a 450-square-foot pool, the deck should also be at least 450 square feet.

How much does it cost to build deck around above ground pool?

The cost to build a deck around an above-ground pool is $15 to $30 per square foot depending upon the design and materials used. The deck alone can range from $2,800 to more than $10,000 installed, or buy a small deck system/kit that's easy to put up as a DIY project for $800 to $3,000.

How do I choose a pool deck?

The material must be safe and not become slippery when wet. Make sure the decking material isn't coarse, bumpy, or uneven. Choose a heat-reflective material to keep the surface cooler on hot days—think about bare feet! Select a material that blends well with other paved or hardscaped areas in your yard.

What is the cheapest pool deck?

Stone. Stone is, hands down, the most popular decking material used for pools. This is because not only is it affordable, but it's suitable for all sorts of climates.

What should I put around my inground pool?

Material options include stamped concrete, limestone, brick, tile, and pavers. Consider non-slip surfaces to protect kid injuries if your pool is used by children. Keep pool access in mind, too. If the cement around your inground pool borders your lawn, and swimmers have to trek through grass to get to the pool.

Is composite decking good around pools?

With wood fibers fully encapsulated in plastic, MoistureShield composite decking is protected to the core and is durable enough to be installed on the ground, in the ground or under water – making it an ideal option for decks around pools.

How much room do you need around a pool?

Most people need between 600 and 900 square ft. of patio around a pool. That's enough room for a table and chair set, some chaise lounges, and a comfortable walking space around the perimeter of the pool.

How much is a 12x12 pool deck?

A deck will cost much less than adding a similar size room to your home. For example, the cost of a 12 x12 deck. A 12 x12 deck can range in cost from $2 200 to $13 000, but the average will be $6 000. Costing $40 a square foot but can be as little as $15 or as high as $85, depending on the deck's features.

How close should a deck be to an above ground pool?

The maximum gap between the decking and the pool coping is generally 3/4 inch. Slip resistance, gaps between boards and slope of the deck may also be regulated depending on the local codes.

How can I make my above ground pool look better?

How to Make an Above Ground Pool Look Nice

1. Surround it with a deck. ...
2. Take things to the next level(s). ...
3. Add a retaining wall. ...
4. Throw shade. ...
5. Design a lounge space. ...
6. Liven things up with landscaping. ...
7. Set the mood with lighting. ...
8. Make your pool the star attraction.

Is concrete or pavers better around a pool?

That said, pavers great advantage over concrete is in its safety. Because they are not slick, Pavers help reduce the chances of falling on wet pool decks. Solid in All Temperatures — Pavers work very well in midwestern climates with multiple freeze and thaw cycles.

Which is better stamped concrete or pavers?

Poured concrete is typically around 3,000-4,000 PSI on average, whereas pavers are 8,000 PSI or greater. Pavers are significantly stronger than stamped concrete and more resistant to the effects of freeze-thaw cycles.

Does concrete around a pool get hot?

Historically, poured concrete formed in large slabs has been the material used for swimming pool patios. However, problems with cracking and the difficulty of repairs, along with the fact that concrete retains heat that can be painful on bare feet, have led many pool owners to look for other decking options.