Create the Wow Factor for your swimming pool this summer

Create the Wow Factor for your swimming pool this summer

Article by Pembroke Tile & Stone

A backyard swimming pool is a refreshing oasis during the hot summer months - a wonderful place to relax or to spend time with friends and family. Although the sparkling water is inviting, it’s really the deck surrounding the pool that makes this outdoor area a beautiful extension of your home. 

So - if you’ve decided to take the plunge and build a pool, or have decided to upgrade an existing deck, it’s the deck tile you choose that can really create the ‘wow’ factor. Beside the aesthetic you’re looking for, you’ll also want to consider the following:

•heat absorption

•effect on bare feet

•slip-resistance

•durability

•maintenance

•cost

Here’s an overview of materials typically used for pool decks:

Natural Stone - Many homeowners choose natural stone tile for their pool decks because it comes in many sizes, shapes, and colors. It’s sophisticated, attractive and a great way to add a natural aesthetic to your yard.

Travertine is one of the more popular natural stone materials for building pool decks. It’s hard-wearing yet beautiful and tends to remain cool. Because travertine typically absorbs water instantly, decks made of it are virtually slip-free. Plus it can handle all types of weather conditions. Travertine usually comes in ivory, light brown, brown and gold and is commonly found in one of three finishes: tumbled (textured and porous), honed (smooth and matte), and polished (smooth and shiny).

Coral stone, also known as coralina fossil stone and keystone, consists of coral and shell fossils, coral, sand, as well as limestone. This distinctive material is strengthened by nature to survive a number of climate extremes, saltwater, pool chemicals, and heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for pool decking and coping. Virtually non-slip, coral stone also absorbs only a minimum of heat and is easily maintained.

Flagstone - This is a common term for any type of flat slab of natural paving including slate and bluestone. It’s a good choice for pool decking as it has a non-slip surface, resists heat and can withstand constant use. It’s also low-maintenance and attractive.

Pavers are interlocking brick decking material sometimes used around a swimming pool as decking. They allow for drainage and minimize moisture to penetrate the material. Pavers also come in a wide array of colors, shapes and sizes, allowing you to create designs that will complement your pool’s shape and style.

Pool Coping

Pool coping is a term that is used to describe the material at the edge of a swimming pool. It serves the practical purpose of connecting an in-ground swimming pool to the pool deck and is a major element of your pool’s appearance.

Natural (solid stone) Stone coping is made with natural stone like bluestone, flagstone, granite or travertine. This is appropriate for more naturalistic, freeform pools. Solid stone coping is a great complement to natural stone pool deck surfaces.

Poured Concrete has been a popular choice for many years. When using concrete, the coping can be a single slab allowing it to blend seamlessly with the pool walls and deck. It’s a very modern, stylish look and the most affordable.

Brick also makes a fine coping. This traditional material can be manufactured with rounded edges to soften the corners and make it safer. 

No matter what type of material you decide to create your pool deck with, take into consideration how the colours and textures will blend in with the overall décor of your home and outdoor areas. Pembroke Tile & Stone carries a range of tile and natural stone perfect for creating an attractive, durable and slip-resistant pool deck. Visit our showroom on Serpentine Road or our website www.pts.bm to find the perfect look for your pool deck.