Building a new swimming pool? What are you using for the pool deck? The two most common materials, paver stones and concrete slabs, present more than just cosmetic differences for your backyard. Make sure you know which is the better choice before you hand over any money.
On the surface, the lower cost of concrete pool decks may seem to answer your question. But don’t stop there. The cheaper option may not be the safest or most durable.
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Cost Comparison
In general, poured concrete pool decks cost less than the paver alternative at first. However, concrete generally requires more in-depth maintenance and repairs as time passes. For instance, if a single paving stone is chipped or broken, it can be replaced. Meanwhile, a cracked slab of concrete has to be replaced in its entirety, multiplying your costs in both time and money. Make sure to discuss long-term costs in detail with your contractor.
Appearances
Concrete can be stamped with virtually any pattern you want in any color to match your outdoor design scheme, making it very versatile for decoration. On the other hand, paving stones aren’t as easily customizable, but can be laid in a pleasing pattern for a similarly appealing effect.
Cleaning
A large slab of concrete might seem easy to hose down, but it actually requires pro-level pressure washing after only a short amount of time. Although the nooks and crannies in a paved surface make maintenance a little trickier, if you maintain your paving stones well, the cleaning process will be a breeze. Make sure to pull up any weeds and fill in gaps between the stones to let the water flow more easily.
Pro Tip: The grout between your paving stones is designed to last a long time without chipping or cracking. If you notice the grout starting to crumble in places, take advantage of your pool builder’s warranty to keep the problem under control.
Durability
As the ground shifts with time, concrete slabs can snap in half or crack. The Houston heat and ever-present tree roots increase this risk exponentially. Paving stones, on the other hand, will shift with the ground and tree roots just slightly enough to maintain a stable foundation for your pool deck. Future repairs are easier with paving stones as well. Instead of ripping out a large section of concrete, you just remove individual bricks and replace them when you’re done. The whole process is much simpler with paving stones.
Which is Better?
In the debate of pavers vs concrete for your Houston pool deck, which is the winner? Judging by upfront and long-term costs, ease of repairs, and durability, paving stones emerges as the superior choice for most Houstonians. Take advantage of these long-lasting, elegant building materials and build a pool deck around your pool to last for years to come.
Want to see what a completed deck of paving stones looks like? Join the conversation to speak with our experienced pool builders about what will be best for your backyard!