Deck materials compared
| Material | Pros | Things to know |
|---|---|---|
| Broom-finished concrete | Lowest cost, durable, non-slip | Can crack as soil moves, gets hot |
| Stamped concrete | Looks like stone or tile at a lower cost | Needs resealing, can be slick if sealed wrong |
| Pavers | Repairable, many styles, flex with soil | Joints need sand top-ups and weed control |
| Travertine | Stays cool, natural stone look | Costs more, should be sealed |
New decks and refinishing
A new deck goes in after the pool shell and coping on a new build, or replaces a worn deck during a remodel. Refinishing works when the slab underneath is sound: cracks are repaired, then a coating or overlay goes on top.
Drainage comes first
Water that runs toward the pool, or pools against the coping, eventually causes trouble under the deck and around the shell. A well-built deck slopes away from the water toward drains or the yard. Ask any contractor how they’ll handle drainage on your lot, especially if the yard slopes toward the pool.
Planning a whole new backyard? Start with pool installation and add the deck to the same quote.