Are you looking to build a swimming pool or update your own in Northern Massachusetts? Then it is important to understand the key components that go into the construction of a pool. Pool coping is one of the defining aesthetic features of your pool and the materials you choose can have a large impact on your budget. But what is it?
What is Pool Coping?
Simply put, coping is the outer edge of the pool used to stop water from getting behind the pool shell and protect the structure of your pool. Properly installed coping helps water splashed out of the pool flow outward and provides an easy surface to get in and out of the water.
What Materials are Used in Pool Coping?
When most of us think about the outside edge of a pool, pre-cast concrete with a bull-nose front edge comes to mind. This is the classic look of community pools, but it may not be what you are going for when it comes to your home decor. Other common materials include bull-nose bricks, custom stones, and natural stones.
What Kinds of Coping are There?
Many modern pool designs are making use of cantilever, brick, and natural stone coping that come in a wide variety of colors and textures.
- Cantilever coping (poured concrete) extends the concrete pool deck over the edge of the pool and eliminates the maintenance of an expansion joint between the coping and pool deck.
- Brick coping is usually made of clay, bullnose bricks that are low in absorption, easy to wash and require little maintenance outside of cleaning.
- Natural stone coping is visually attractive and often provides great grip texture for walking around your pool. It also tends to have the widest price range because certain stones are more affordable and readily available than others. It can be a bit harder to maintain and keep clean, but usually lasts just as long as other materials.
How Do I Decide Which Style is Right for Me?
Usability, cost, and maintenance are all items to consider when deciding on your pool coping. Luckily, all of these materials are durable and look good when framed with the right surroundings. That’s why it’s important to think of your surroundings and the tiles installed in and around your pool.
So, we highly recommend talking to a Triad team member so you can review all of your options for building a pool and look at actual finished products so you can ensure you make the right decision for you and yours.
Still have questions about coping? Wanting to know more about the other materials and work that go into owning your own pool? Our team in Haverhill, MA is here to answer your questions. You can reach out to us through our Contact page or give us a call at (978) 373-4223 for a free project consultation and estimate.
