STAMPED POOL DECKS
Pool Decks
If you have or are thinking about integrating a pool into your backyard there are a lot of considerations to take into account. Not only do you have to plan out the size and shape of the pool, where it’s going to go, and what the surrounding landscape will look like, but you also have to take into consideration the pool deck. This is sometimes a design step that people forget about, but the pool deck provides both function and design to your pool area and choosing the right material can be crucial.
Pool Deck Materials
Two of the most popular options for pool decks are concrete and pavers. Pavers are essentially individual pieces of stone that use a sand mixture to seal the spaces in between them. Pavers are incredibly visually appealing and have a number of benefits for pool decks. They are not slippery, they won’t crack and if underground repairs are needed, they provide easy access to carry out a simple fix. However, they also come with their fair share of disadvantages, which makes stamped concrete the overall better choice.
Maintenance
Pavers are not sealed. The benefit of this is that they do not become slippery, which can be a big safety hazard, especially if you have children. The disadvantage of this is that they can become susceptible to things like mold, dirt and grime. Pavers are extremely difficult to clean because of the grooves between them. Stamped concrete on the other hand is extremely easy to clean. It is low maintenance and can be easily swept or washed to make it look as good as new. Stamped concrete is also sealed, which protects it from things like salt and pool chemicals. It also protects it from weather elements so that your pool deck will stay looking sharp year round.
Durability
While both materials are fairly durable, stamped concrete comes out a little bit ahead in terms of overall longevity. The downfall to stamped concrete is that it can crack. However, if this ever does happen we can provide you with a quick fix in no time at all. Pavers on the other hand can shift and settle over time, creating an uneven walkway. This is a huge safety hazard and requires a more cumbersome fix. Depending on what type of filler you use, weeds and grass can also grow between the pavers. You don’t have to worry about this problem with stamped concrete.
Design
Probably one of the biggest decisions regarding your pool deck is the design. With pavers you have limited color and pattern options, whereas with stamped concrete your options are nearly endless. If you so choose, you can even mix colors and patterns to help your stamped concrete mimic other materials such as brick or slate. If you have a very specific design option in mind then stamped concrete is the option for you. It allows you to play with different options so that the end result is completely unique to your backyard.
