FAQ - Decking and Coping
Are there benefits of sealing my pool pavement area?
The benefits of sealing your pool pavers cannot be underestimated. Sealing them will intensify the colors and help you manage the everyday stains that may occur. This will ensure you can enjoy your pool for years without the need for constant repair and maintenance.
Are there options for environmentally friendly pool decking?
The benefits of sealing your pool pavers cannot be underestimated. Sealing them will intensify the colors and help you manage the everyday stains that may occur. This will ensure you can enjoy your pool for years without the need for constant repair and maintenance.
Composite decking materials resist splintering, twisting, warping and cracking. The surface is decidedly non-skid and holds up well to heavy traffic or loads. Under normal conditions, wood-plastic composite decking can last 2-3 times longer than traditional wood decking.
How can I keep my pool deck looking attractive?
The benefits of sealing your pool pavers cannot be underestimated. Sealing them will intensify the colors and help you manage the everyday stains that may occur. This will ensure you can enjoy your pool for years without the need for constant repair and maintenance.
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Cover frequently traveled areas of the pool deck with no-slip mats to prevent wear and tear.
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Keep metal furniture off of the pool deck. Rust stains from metal chairs can stain your pool deck.
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Clean your pool deck frequently with a leaf blower or hose.
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Clean up spills as soon as they drop to prevent staining.
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Keep your deck area clear of overhanging trees. Leaves and fruit that drop on the deck can stain it.
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Likewise, avoid spilling fertilizer on your pool deck. Fertilizer contains iron, which can leave a hard-to-remove orange stain.
How do pavers compare with patterned or stamped concrete?
Patterned concrete pavements are merely slabs of concrete that are embossed with a pattern. Therefore, they are prone to the same problems with freeze/thaw cycles, namely cracking and spalling. Pavers won't crack or spall. Stamped concrete requires expansion joints every 10 feet or so, which are very distracting in some patterns. Also, unlike pavers, patterned concrete pavements don't allow access to underground utilities or the ability to make repairs. At virtually the same price per square foot installed, pavers are clearly a superior choice.
I am considering a pool finish as well as deck and coping remodel. How long will this take?
The length of time a pool will be under construction for renovation is directly related to the extent of the work we are performing. Pools that are being refinished with plaster or National Pool Tile's variety of pool finishes can be operational in ten days or less. Pools that require tile and coping or are being extensively remodeled require additional construction time.
If there are stains on the pavers, what is the best way to remove these?
Do not use any type of acid that you would use on clay house bricks. Always try scrubbing with a firm brush and dish soap first. If the stain persists, brick paver supply companies carry a cleaning solution that is safe to use on pavers. If all else fails, remember that one advantage gained by using pavers is that you have the option of simply replacing the few stained culprits.
Is it a problem if there are ants under the pavers?
Yes. Although most of the time ants are harmless, they have the ability to move large amounts of sand, and can cause pavers to sink. If you decide to use a commercial ant killer, first test it on a small area to make sure it doesn't discolor the pavers.
Should pavers be sealed?
Pavers do not need to be sealed; sealants are for aesthetics only. Pavers generally have the same lifespan whether sealed or not. Once you do seal, you will need to reapply the sealant to maintain the same look.
What happens if my pavers are chipped or damaged?
The great thing about pavers is that they are easy to repair. They can be pried out and replaced with new ones at any time. This makes pavers a very cost efficient product, for there are no real high costs involved in repairing.
What is the best way to clean my discolored coping and deck?
Leaves and dirt may stain concrete. Pressure washing can remove these soils and restore original brightness to concrete and coping stones. A light acid washing on the coping stones also works very well, and algae or mildew can be lifted by scrubbing with a paste of bleaching agent. If you do not have any cleaning agent on hand, you can try powdering the area with Baking Soda and then spraying it with vinegar before you scrub it with a brush.
What kind of maintenance do I need for pavers?
Pavers are generally maintenance free. Cleaning with a high pressure cleaner is a common way to keep pavers clean. Over time, re-sanding might be necessary.
What kind of material should I use for my pool deck?
The material you ultimately choose often depends on a number of factors including your surrounding landscape, space availability, how much traffic the pool deck will receive, budget, and how much time and effort you want to devote to care and upkeep. National Pool Tile offers an array of options and materials to enhance your pool deck area.
What should I do about a sunken spot, chipped brick, or broken brick in my paved area?
If you have a few extra bricks left over, or have purchased replacements, take two small chisels or flat head screwdrivers and work from both ends of the brick. Slowly work the paver up from each end till you can get a secure grasp. If sunken or too high, add or remove sand to make up the difference. If a brick is damaged, simply replace it with new one.