What to Surround Your Pool with: The Best Concrete Options

When it comes to enhancing the aesthetics and safety of your pool area, the choice of what to put around your concrete pool is crucial. The right landscaping can transform your pool into a stunning oasis, while the wrong choices can lead to safety hazards and maintenance nightmares. Let's dive into the world of poolside landscaping, exploring the best options for your concrete pool.

First, it's essential to consider the unique characteristics of your pool and the surrounding area. The size and shape of your pool, the climate in your region, and your personal style preferences should all play a role in your decision-making process. With that in mind, let's explore some of the most popular and practical options for your concrete pool.

Natural Stone and Pavers

Natural stone and pavers are popular choices for poolside landscaping due to their durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. They come in a variety of colors, textures, and patterns, allowing you to create a unique and personalized look for your pool area.

However, it's crucial to choose the right type of stone or paver for your pool. Some materials, like certain types of sandstone or limestone, can become slippery when wet, posing a safety risk around the pool. Opt for non-slip surfaces, such as textured concrete, travertine, or bluestone, to ensure safety for you and your guests.

Bluestone

Bluestone, a type of sandstone, is a popular choice for poolside patios due to its natural beauty and durability. It's resistant to fading, staining, and even freeze-thaw cycles, making it an excellent long-term investment. Plus, its subtle blue-grey hue complements a wide range of pool colors and styles.

To enhance safety, opt for honed or thermal bluestone, which provides a non-slip surface when wet. You can also choose from various patterns and layouts, such as herringbone or basketweave, to create a unique and attractive poolside space.

Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are another excellent option for your concrete pool. They're durable, affordable, and can be designed to mimic the look of natural stone or other high-end materials. With a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns available, you can easily find a style that complements your pool and home.

To ensure safety, choose pavers with a textured surface or consider using a non-slip sealer to prevent accidents around the pool. Additionally, opt for pavers with a high PSI (pounds per square inch) rating to ensure they can withstand the weight of furniture and heavy foot traffic.

Plants and Greenery

Incorporating plants and greenery into your poolside landscaping can create a lush, inviting atmosphere. The right plants can also provide privacy, shade, and even help control pool chemicals by absorbing excess nitrogen and other nutrients.

However, it's essential to choose plants that thrive in your climate and require minimal maintenance. You'll also want to avoid plants with sharp thorns or toxic properties, as these can pose safety risks around the pool.

Pool-friendly Trees

Trees can provide much-needed shade and privacy around your pool. Opt for fast-growing, non-toxic trees with shallow root systems, such as crape myrtles, magnolias, or Japanese maples. Be sure to plant trees at least 15-20 feet away from the pool to prevent roots from damaging the pool structure and to allow for proper growth.

To create a more cohesive look, consider planting trees in clusters or along the perimeter of your pool area. You can also use trees to create visual boundaries between the pool area and other parts of your yard.

Low-maintenance Shrubs and Flowers

Shrubs and flowers can add color, texture, and visual interest to your poolside landscape. Opt for low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants that require minimal watering and pruning. Some excellent choices include lavender, black-eyed Susans, and butterfly bushes.

To create a cohesive look, group plants with similar colors, textures, or heights together. You can also use plants to create borders, define spaces, or add height to your pool area. Just be sure to choose plants that are safe for children and pets and won't drop leaves or debris into the pool.

Pool Coping and Decking

Pool coping and decking play a crucial role in the safety, functionality, and aesthetics of your pool area. The right coping and decking materials can enhance the look of your pool, provide a safe surface for swimming and lounging, and even extend the lifespan of your pool.

When choosing pool coping and decking materials, consider factors such as durability, slip resistance, and compatibility with your pool's design and finish.

Concrete Coping and Decking

Concrete coping and decking are popular choices for concrete pools due to their durability, affordability, and versatility. Concrete can be designed to mimic the look of natural stone, brick, or other high-end materials, allowing you to create a customized look for your pool area.

To enhance safety, opt for textured or stamped concrete surfaces that provide better traction when wet. You can also choose from a variety of colors, patterns, and finishes to create a unique and attractive poolside space.

Tile and Stone Coping and Decking

Tile and stone coping and decking materials can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your pool area. Opt for non-slip tiles or stones with textured surfaces to ensure safety around the pool. Some popular choices include travertine, bluestone, and porcelain pavers.

To create a cohesive look, choose coping and decking materials that complement the color and style of your pool and home. You can also use tile or stone inlays or patterns to create a unique and personalized design for your pool area.

In the end, the key to creating a beautiful and functional poolside landscape is to choose materials and plants that complement your pool and home while prioritizing safety and low maintenance. By taking the time to plan and design your pool area carefully, you can create a stunning oasis that you and your loved ones will enjoy for years to come.