6 expert tips on choosing natural stone Pool Pavers

Pool areas come with their own set of challenges. Saltwater, water seepage, slippery surface, chemical-laced water are among several other challenges. It becomes imperative to select natural stones for pool areas carefully. For example, when you choose slip-resistant pool pavers, you also need to keep in mind their surface hardness that should not hurt bare feet. Here are the factors to consider while choosing natural stones for pool areas:

1. Slip-resistance 

The slip resistance of pool pavers is an important factor and cannot be ignored. Of course, you want no slipping hazards around the pools. Choose stones with a cleft or rugged surface or the ones that have natural anti-slip properties. Sandstone in honed finish, Unfilled Travertine, Limestone, and Granite in bush-hammered finish meet this requirement. Many stones that are not slip-resistant are treated to achieve this property. It is advisable to check for slip rating with the stone supplier or retailer.

2. Colour

Believe it or not, colour plays an important role in pool areas. Ivory, beige, grey, or bluish grey stones create a striking contrast against the blue waters of the pool. Light colours lend a striking appearance to the pool areas while creating a calming ambience. Stones like Bluestone, Travertine, Marble, and Limestone work the best in the light-colour category. However, softer hues have higher chances of staining or showing damages. This can be avoided by using darker grey or black tones of Limestone and Granite.

3. Heat-resistant

When you walk bare feet around the pool, the stones should feel cool. In all possibilities, your pool would be in open areas. Direct sunlight heats the stones, making them uncomfortably hot to walk on. Almost all natural stones get hot in the sun. However, Limestone and Travertine are exceptions as they absorb the coolness of the Earth beneath. Also, their light colour works in their favour as they reflect instead of absorbing light. Sandstone also remains cool and is the best choice for pool pavers. Think twice before installing Marble or Granite as they get very hot in the sun. It is advisable to install shade around to prevent the pool pavers from getting too hot.

4. Ease of maintenance

The amount of damage that saltwater or moisture can do to natural stones is incomprehensible. Whatever stone you choose, make sure they are sealed as natural stones are porous. Hence sealing will block the porosity. Granite, Limestone, and Bluestone are tough stones that are durable and last long. Travertine and Marble are slightly high maintenance, considering their fragility and soft hues. Remember, tougher stones are maintained easily.

5. Easy installation

Natural stones should be easy to install and experiment with colours or patterns. In case of damage repair, the stones should be replaceable without affecting the overall look of the pavers. All natural stones fit in with the rest of the stones. Granite, Travertine, and Limestone are comparatively heavier than other stones which call for professional help during installation. Typically, all pavers are heavy but stones like Sandstone and Marble are easy to work with. This factor too counts for ease of installation.

6. Affordability 

Research natural stones extensively to use them as pool pavers. Of course, there can’t be any compromise on quality. The value of money can be derived with not just the best material but by using them to its fullest potential. Premium quality pool pavers will avoid chances of damage or early replacement. The purchase price of the stones depends on the availability and type of stone. A longer waiting period means hasty completion of the paving project or mismatched stones. Choose your stone supplier carefully to avoid this tricky situation.

In conclusion 

Pool areas are among the most beautiful places of any residence. Since they are used as a place for socializing, entertainment, and leisure time, the pavers should be chosen and installed very carefully. We hope you find this useful in your decision-making process and make the most of it.