Pool decks are a great way to add extended living space to your home. When you build a pool deck, you can turn any backyard into an outdoor entertainment venue. Pools aren’t required for pool decks; they’re just the most popular place to install one. Wherever you decide to put your deck, it has certain requirements that must be met to stand up to environmental factors and function properly over the years. This article will go through some of the basics of building a pool deck and share a few helpful tips on making your new deck an enjoyable space.
1) Flagstone
This type of natural stone decking offers numerous patterns and colors that can suit any style of home décor. It features smooth lines and edges that give a clean and polished look. Flagstone is also slip-resistant, making it a safe option for pool decking. You can choose from red flagstone, green flagstone, blue flagstone, and other colors that create a beautiful contrast on your pool decking.
Pros:
- Offers a variety of colors and patterns
- Slip-resistant
- Lasts for many years without regular maintenance
Cons:
- Needs to be sealed every few years to prevent staining and fading
2) Travertine
Travertine is a type of sedimentary rock that is often used for flooring and other indoor applications. However, it can also be used for pool decking since it is slip-resistant and has a natural finish that looks elegant. You can find travertine in different colors, such as white, beige, gold, and brown. It also comes in different textures, such as smoothened, tumbled, and brushed.
Pros:
- Slip-resistant
- Comes in many colors and textures
- Elegant natural finish
Cons:
- Can be expensive to install
3) Bluestone
Bluestone is a type of metamorphic rock that is quarried in the United States. It is often used for paving sidewalks, driveways, and outdoor flooring because it is durable and withstands harsh weather conditions. Bluestone also has a natural finish that makes it look elegant. You can find this type of stone in different shades of blue, green, and gray.
Pros:
- Durable and withstands harsh weather conditions
- Unique finish with design options
Cons:
- May require regular sealing to prevent staining and fading
4) Marble
Marble is a type of metamorphic rock that is quarried in several parts of the world. It is often used for flooring, countertops, and other indoor applications. However, it can also be used for pool decking since it is slip-resistant and has a natural finish that looks luxurious. You can find marble in different colors, such as white, black, pink, and green. It also comes in different textures, such as smoothened, honed, and polished.
Pros:
- Slip-resistant
- Comes in many colors
- Has a natural finish that looks luxurious
Cons:
- Marble pool decking can be expensive to install
5) Slate
Slate is a type of metamorphic rock that can last for many years without requiring regular maintenance. It is also slip-resistant and has a natural finish that looks elegant. You can find slate in different colors, such as green-gray, blue-gray, and black-gray. Slate is also available in different textures, such as smoothened, honed, and split.
Pros:
- Durable and lasts for many years without regular maintenance
- Slip-resistant
- Comes in many colors
Cons:
- The surface of slate can be rough, so it may not be the best option for pool decking
6) Sandstone
Sandstone is a type of sedimentary rock that is quarried in many parts of the world. It is often used for paving sidewalks, driveways, and outdoor flooring because it is durable and withstands harsh weather conditions. Sandstone also has a natural finish that makes it look elegant. You can find sandstone in different colors, such as red, beige, yellow, and brown.
Pros:
- Durable and withstands harsh weather conditions
- Comes in many colors
- Has a natural finish that looks elegant
Cons:
- Can deteriorate over time if not sealed
Installation Details and Design Options
Once you have chosen the type of natural stone that you want for your pool decking, you need to decide on the installation details and design options.
Pool Decking Installation
There are two main ways to install natural stone pool decking: using a mortar bed or using a flagstone adhesive. With a mortar bed, the stones are laid in a bed of mortar, and the joints between the stones are filled with more mortar. With a flagstone adhesive, the stones are glued to each other using an adhesive, and no mortar is used.
Which installation method you choose will depend on several factors, such as the size and shape of your pool deck, the type of natural stone you choose, and your budget.
Design Options
Once you have decided on your natural stone pool decking, you need to choose the design. There are many different design options to choose from, and you can mix and match different designs to create your own unique look.
Some of the most popular design options include:
- Running bond pattern: The stones are laid in a straight row with uniform spacing between them. This is the most common pattern for natural stone pool decking.
- Herringbone pattern: The stones are laid in a zigzag pattern, with each stone fitting into the notch of two other stones. This pattern is more intricate than the running bond pattern and is often used for patios and walkways.
- Herringbone brick pattern: Instead of fitting into notches, the stones are laid so that they butt up against each other. This creates a more modern and contemporary look than the herringbone pattern and is often used for driveways and patios.
- Basketweave pattern: The stones are laid in an alternate, overlapping pattern to create a basket weave effect. This is another intricate design option that can be used for walkways and patios. It can also be done with natural stone tiles instead of slabs if you do not prefer to use the larger size of natural stone slabs or pavers.
Choosing a natural stone material for your pool decking is a great way to add beauty and elegance to your backyard. There are many different types of natural stone to choose from, so you can find the perfect material that fits your style and budget. Be sure to consider the installation details and design options to create a pool deck that you will love spending time on!