Planning
Exploring Pool Coping Options
Choosing the Perfect Frame for your Swimming Pool
Story Highlights
Pool coping refers to the material or edging that caps the pool shell wall, creating a finished look while serving practical purposes like preventing water from seeping behind the pool structure. It acts as a transition between the pool and the surrounding deck, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of your outdoor space.
Pool coping is more than just a practical necessity; it’s a design element that can significantly influence the overall aesthetic and functionality of your pool. Whether you’re building a new pool or upgrading an existing one, choosing the right coping involves understanding the available materials, edge profiles, and how certain features, like automatic covers, can impact your options.
Getting started
Types of Pool Coping Options
Option 1
Poured-In-Place Concrete
This option allows for a seamless, modern appearance that can be tailored to fit your pool’s shape and style.
Advantages:
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Fully customizable to match your pool and surrounding deck.
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Smooth and cohesive look, ideal for contemporary designs.
Considerations:
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Requires skilled craftsmanship to achieve a high-quality finish.
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Prone to cracking over time, although proper installation can mitigate this risk.
Option 2
Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers are a versatile and cost-effective choice for pool coping.
Advantages:
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Available in a wide range of colors, textures, and sizes.
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Durable and relatively easy to replace if damaged.
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Typically comes in smaller pieces that make it a great choice for curved pools.
Considerations:
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Joint lines may require maintenance to prevent weed growth or shifting.
Option 3
Natural Stone Treads
Natural stone treads bring a timeless elegance to any poolscape, making them a popular choice for luxury designs.
Advantages:
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Highly durable and ages beautifully.
Considerations:
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Comes in longer treads that do not work easily for curved pools.
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Do not always come with a bullnose edge; it is typically an expensive upgrade option.
Squared vs bullnose
Standard Edge Profiles
Squared Edge
Squared edges are sleek, modern, and complement most design styles.
Advantages:
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Versatile and timeless look.
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Easier to source and install than bullnose profiles.
Bullnose Edge
Once a popular choice, bullnose edges are now considered more of a premium upgrade due to production challenges and shifting trends.
Advantages:
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Smooth, rounded edge offers a softer touch, ideal for pools used by children.
Considerations:
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Limited availability and higher costs make it less common.
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Often reserved for custom natural stone applications.
Squared Edge
Squared edges are sleek, modern, and complement most design styles.
Bullnose Edge
Once a popular choice, bullnose edges are now considered more of a premium upgrade due to production challenges and shifting trends.
Special Considerations
Automatic Pool Covers
For pools with automatic covers, coping must accommodate the cover trough or well, which typically requires coping with a depth of at least 14 inches. This specification narrows the available options significantly, often ruling out standard pavers or treads that lack sufficient width. Homeowners with automatic covers should prioritize functionality while still exploring materials that complement their pool’s design.
Outdoor Dreams' Preferred Choise
Thermaled Bluestone Treads
At Outdoor Dreams, our top recommendation for pool coping is thermaled bluestone treads with a squared edge. This premium material offers:
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Timeless Elegance: Bluestone’s natural tones blend seamlessly with a variety of materials and colors, making it suitable for any design style.
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Exceptional Durability: Thermaled bluestone is resistant to wear and weather, ensuring it maintains its beauty over time.
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Versatility: Its availability and adaptability make it a reliable choice, regardless of the pool’s shape or style.
Over the years, we’ve found that bluestone treads consistently deliver exceptional results. Their balance of aesthetics, durability, and functionality ensures they enhance the pool area without compromising practicality.
Making the Right Choice
Selecting the right pool coping involves balancing aesthetics, budget, and functionality. Whether you’re drawn to the customizability of poured-in-place concrete, the versatility of concrete pavers, or the timeless charm of natural stone, the perfect choice will frame your pool beautifully while standing up to years of enjoyment.
Need help deciding? Contact Outdoor Dreams today to explore your options and find the perfect pool coping for your outdoor oasis!
The Outdoor Dreams' Difference: Automatic Pool Covers
The Outdoor Dreams' Difference: Automatic Pool Covers
At Outdoor Dreams, we believe automatic pool covers are one of the smartest investments you can make for your pool—and we include them on the vast majority of our projects. These covers don’t just add convenience; they’ve changed the way pools are built, maintained, and most importantly, protected.