Pool Deck Ideas: Designs, Material Options, and Cost Breakdown
The decking around your swimming pool determines how the pool fits into the landscape of your yard.
When looking for pool deck ideas, it is essential to note that while one material may be cheaper, the end cost will be based on the deck area’s size, shape, and terrain.
The best pool decking should provide a secure walking area between the pool and lounging areas. If you’re considering adding economical or more expensive composite pool decking around your pool—or refurbishing the deck already there—here are a few things to consider concerning materials, design, installation, and costs.
Materials Matter
Choosing which pool decking material is best for your pool is vital. The building material you choose must not become slippery when wet or absorb excess heat. Swimmers should be able to walk safely around your pool area. Ideally, the deck surface should feel nice under your feet, so consider comfort and safety when choosing a pool decking material.
Here are several options:
Concrete Pool Deck Ideas
Concrete has been the primary material for pool decking for several decades because it is durable and water-resistant. When finished with a brushed surface, concrete pool decking allows swimmers to walk barefoot without slipping. Custom-poured and stamped concrete can provide an exact size and shape with a seamless look. When choosing stamped concrete, the design and color can be customized at an additional cost.
Pool Decking Pavers
Cement pavers are an excellent alternative to poured concrete and are available in various geometric shapes, including squares, rectangles, and octagons. The material itself is the most cost-effective. Depending on the area where they will be installed, the labor may cost more than concrete; however, they are easy to install.
Brick
Brick is another surface option. Brick is installed the same way as cement pavers – on top of a bed of sand, which keeps the surface from shifting. Brick is somewhat expensive, depending on the type. Professional installation will be an additional cost. Brick’s classic appearance makes it an ideal choice for historic homes. The brick cost per square foot is more than that of concrete and pavers.
Wood
Wood is another smooth choice that can feel wonderful underfoot. However, not every type of wood is ideal for pool decking. To repel water, you’ll need exterior wood, such as redwood, teak, or cedar. Wood decks require the construction of a floor joist to install the deck boards. Some wood itself is not expensive. The downside of certain cheaper types is that they rot and peel, requiring regular maintenance. There are also wood composite alternatives available.
Stone Tile Pool Deck Ideas
Material like stone tile is available in various natural choices, such as travertine, limestone, and sandstone, which lends the landscape a natural look. The unglazed stone tile should be used in a pool setting—glazed tile can be slippery when wet—and for comfort underfoot, choose light shades that won’t absorb too much heat.
Stone tile decking is more expensive than concrete, pavers, and wood, but its pricing is comparable to brick.
Travertine pool decking is an ideal surface because it is resistant to temperature extremes. Even when directly exposed to sunlight, the stone will feel cool when walking barefoot.
5 Pool deck ideas for inground pools
1. Pool Overlook – connects the deck up above and the pool below
2. Matching Deck and Patio Curve – contour the decking around the shape of the pool
3. Platforms – extend a deck platform right out over and into the pool
4. Secluded Spaces Overlooking Pool – build a deck area that offers privacy
5. Shade Structure – offer a cooler deck area out of direct sunlight
Need help learning more about pool deck ideas, options and costs? Are you looking to hire the best pool deck builders or build your pool or spa? Contact Precision Pools & Spas today!
As top-rated Houston pool builders, we serve the counties of:
Walker, Montgomery, Grimes, Austin, Colorado, Washington, Calhoun, San Jacinto, Fort Bend, Waller, Wharton, Matagorda, Brazoria, Brazos, Galveston, Chambers, Jackson, Harris, Liberty, Hardin, Polk, Trinity, and Jefferson