Imagine walking barefoot around your pool on a hot day.  Is the surface cool, smooth, and safe? Or is it rough, slick, or already starting to crack?

Choosing the wrong material around your pool can lead to years of frustration. The right deck surface should feel comfortable, stay safe when wet, drain properly, and protect your investment rather than work against it.

In this article, we break down the top materials homeowners consider for pool decks, with a focus on pavers, also referred to as interlocking pavers. We’ll look at heat retention, slip resistance, drainage, maintenance, and long‑term durability. You’ll also learn what most people overlook during installation (soil prep, drainage, and weed control) and how to make a wise, lasting choice for your backyard.

What Are Pool Deck Pavers and Why Do Homeowners Choose Them?

Pool deck pavers are individual units made from materials such as concrete, stone, brick, or porcelain that interlock to form a solid, durable surface around pools. Because each paver is an individual piece, small sections can be lifted and replaced if damaged, a significant advantage over poured concrete slabs or bonded overlays.

For luxury pool projects, pavers appeal because they provide:

• Design flexibility (patterns, borders, materials, and colors)
• Easier, localized repairs
• Strong performance when properly installed on a well-designed base

Types of Pavers for Pool Decks

Here’s a breakdown of common paver materials and what distinguishes them.

Concrete Interlocking Pavers

Affordable and widely available, often used for patios, walkways, and driveways. They can be designed to interlock for added stability. These concrete blocks are manufactured in molds to maintain their shape and are available in various types.

• Pros: Cost-effective, many shapes and colors, easy to source.
• Cons: Can fade or stain over time; may heat up in intense sun, depending on color; quality varies by manufacturer.

Natural Stone (travertine, limestone, granite, sandstone, etc.)

Offers an upscale, timeless aesthetic and often good slip resistance when left with a textured, tumbled, or sandblasted finish. Many natural stones are porous and require appropriate sealing and maintenance.

• Pros: High-end look, natural variation, often cooler underfoot than dark concrete, good traction with the right finish.
• Cons: Quality varies widely; softer or more porous stones can absorb water and chemicals, leading to damage without proper sealing and care.

  Porcelain Pavers

Increasingly popular thanks to durability, low maintenance, and design flexibility. Because porcelain is manufactured under high pressure and high temperature, these pavers tend to be very dense and non‑porous. They resist staining, UV fading, and chemical absorption, making them especially well-suited to pool environments.

• • Pros: Highly durable, low absorption, colorfast, excellent stain resistance, and many stone- and wood-look options.
  • Cons: Requires a skilled installer; must meet slip‑resistance standards; cutting can be more complex than with concrete.

Clay Brick Pavers

A classic, traditional look with potential for good slip resistance.

• Pros: Warm aesthetic, historic feel, good traction when appropriately textured.
• Cons: Can retain more heat than light stone or porcelain; may require periodic sealing or cleaning depending on finish and exposure.  Sizes and shapes are limited.

Mixed or Specialty Pavers

These include natural stone or stone‑look porcelain, mixed-modular systems, or surface‑textured products. They aim to balance aesthetics and practicality, for example, giving the look of stone with the performance of porcelain, or combining different materials for a custom pattern. 

Combining materials is tricky because the thickness must match as the ground is leveled, ensuring a uniform installation to avoid gaps or trip hazards.

Pool Paver Quality: What You Might Overlook

Driveway-Grade vs. Pool‑Grade

Some pavers are designed to support vehicle loads; they are thicker, denser, and stronger. For a pool deck, that extra load‑bearing strength is often unnecessary and can be overkill. Over‑spec’d pavers may:

• Costs more than needed; various thicknesses are available.
• Feel more “industrial” underfoot.
• Absorb and hold more heat in the sun.

For a pool deck, you typically want pavers engineered for pedestrian use, with an emphasis on comfort, slip resistance, and thermal performance rather than support for heavy loads.

Finish Matters a Lot

Surface texture is one of the most critical safety factors.

• Smooth or polished surfaces can look elegant in photos but may be slippery when wet.
• Textured, tumbled, sandblasted, or brushed finishes generally perform better on pool decks, providing more grip.

Always look for products tested for wet slip resistance (DCOF ≥ 0.42) when used around pools.

Manufacturer & Sourcing Variation

Pavers from different producers vary in:

• Consistency and density
• Porosity and absorption rate
• Strength and abrasion resistance
• Color matching and pattern repeat

Sourcing from out-of-state or ordering custom/non‑standard colors or sizes can increase freight costs, extend lead times, and introduce batch variation. When possible:

• Inspect physical samples in person
• Ask about origin, quality control, and testing
• Confirm UV‑fade resistance and color consistency across batches

Delivery & Availability Considerations

Beyond material cost, availability and logistics matter:

• Local suppliers vs. out‑of‑state sources can significantly affect freight and delivery costs.
• Bulk orders, specialty items, and custom colors often come with longer lead times.
• High demand or limited production runs can create delays or require substitutions if specific sizes/colors are unavailable when your project is ready to build.

Pool Deck Pavers vs. Concrete: Which Is Better?

Appearance & Design Flexibility

Pavers typically win on versatility. You can mix shapes, sizes, colors, and textures to complement your home’s architecture and landscape design.

Concrete slabs or stamped overlays offer a more uniform, monolithic look. While they can be attractive, they generally provide less detail and customization than a well‑designed paver layout.

Safety and Slip Resistance

Pool decks get wet by definition, so slip resistance is non‑negotiable.

• Textured pavers, such as tumbled natural stone or slip‑rated porcelain, tend to maintain traction when wet.
• Smooth concrete, especially after years of wear or improper sealing, can become slick.
• Porcelain pavers with slip‑resistant surface textures are particularly effective at pool edges because they combine durability, chemical resistance, and safety.

Always confirm that your chosen material and finish meet or exceed the recommended "0.42 dynamic coefficient of friction" (DCOF) for wet areas.

Heat & Comfort

Color and material directly affect surface temperature:

• Light‑colored stone or porcelain pavers (for example, light travertine‑look porcelain or pale limestone) typically stay cooler underfoot than dark concrete or dark stone.
• Dense, very dark materials can become uncomfortable on bare feet in direct sunlight.

In a sunny climate, prioritizing lighter tones and appropriate finishes can make a noticeable difference in day‑to‑day comfort.

Maintenance & Repair

• Pavers: If a section cracks, stains, or settles, you can remove and replace only the affected pavers. Joint sand can be re‑sanded, polymeric sand refilled, and individual units reset. This repair localization is one of the most significant long‑term advantages of pavers.
• Concrete slabs: Cracks tend to spread, and repairs often require patching or resurfacing larger areas. Matching color and texture can be challenging, and repeated patching can degrade appearance over time.

Cost Breakdown: Upfront vs. Long-Term

Pavers typically involve a higher upfront investment due to:

• Material cost (especially for premium stone or porcelain)
• Base excavation and preparation
• Skilled labor for layout, cutting, and setting
• Joint materials and edge restraints

Over time, however, the ability to perform localized repairs, combined with reduced risk of significant cracking or wholesale replacement, can make a paver deck more cost‑effective than slab concrete that requires resurfacing or full demo and replacement.

Don’t overlook “hidden” costs that impact total project value:

• Shipping and freight
• Base preparation and compaction
• Drainage planning and slope
• Edge restraints and transitions
• Joint sand or polymeric sand
• Appropriate sealing and periodic maintenance
• Potential replacement of individual pavers if installation quality is poor or materials are not suited for a pool environment
• Proper edging or border materials are often overlooked, which increases installation costs.

The Pros and Cons of Using Pavers Around Your Pool

Pros

• High customization: materials, colors, shapes, textures, and layouts can be tailored to your architecture and landscape.
• Localized repairs: damaged or stained pavers can be replaced individually without tearing out the entire deck.
• Strong safety potential: When you specify the right texture and material, pavers offer excellent slip resistance.
• Long service life: With proper design and installation, pavers can last decades, resist pool chemicals, and maintain their aesthetic value.
• Design flexibility over time: You can extend the deck, add planters, borders, or other outdoor features later with less disruption than with a monolithic slab.

Cons

• Higher upfront cost: materials, skilled labor, and base preparation can be significantly more than for simple poured concrete.
• Installation sensitivity: poor base prep, inadequate compaction, or weak drainage design can lead to shifting, unevenness, cracking of underlying layers, or water problems.
• Maintenance needs: many pavers (particularly natural stone) are porous and require sealing and regular maintenance to protect against stains, water absorption, and chemical damage.
• Joint issues: if joints are not correctly filled and maintained, weeds can grow, sand can erode, and pavers can loosen.
• Sourcing and availability: non‑local or specialty products may increase cost, extend timelines, or create batch inconsistencies.
• Natural materials often have slight dimensional variations; some may be thicker or longer, making installation more challenging.  This can also be a serious trip hazard.

Like any other deck surface choice, stay away from large trees to prevent lifting or damageto the deck

Why Installation Matters More Than You Think

Proper installation is often more important than the material itself. A well‑engineered base and drainage plan can make modest pavers perform exceptionally well, while careless installation can cause even premium stone or porcelain to fail.

Soil Prep & Base Layers

Under every successful paver deck is a stable, well‑draining base

• The subgrade should be excavated to the proper depth, cleared of roots, organic matter, and soft soils, and then compacted. We recommend 12"-18" if the soil is not expansive.
• A base layer, typically compacted crushed gravel or “¾‑minus” rock, is installed to promote drainage and resist movement. Creating a solid foundation.
• Bedding sand (washed concrete sand) is added, leveled, and used as the setting bed for the pavers.
• A weed barrier should be installed between the final layer.

Skipping compaction or undersizing the base are among the quickest paths to uneven settling and trip hazards.

Edge Restraints & Drainage Planning

• Edge restraints (plastic, metal, or concrete) are essential to prevent pavers from drifting outward and to prevent joint openings over time.
• The deck should be graded to direct water away from the pool shell and the house, typically at a gentle 1–2% slope.
• The use of paver drains is necessary, and a code requirement around pools, not a luxury.

Without proper drainage:

• Water pooling on the surface can encourage mildew and algae growth.
• Moisture can migrate under the pavers, softening the base and causing settlement.
• Long‑term subsidence and shifting can compromise both aesthetics and safety.

Weed Barriers, Joint Sand & Polymerics

• Weed barriers come in all shapes and colors; it's essential to review with your contractor which type is best for your application.  These should not be avoided just to cut installation costs.
• A geotextile fabric under the gravel base also helps prevent clay or poor native soils from migrating into the base, which is especially important in clay-heavy or poor-drainage conditions.
• After laying pavers, joints are filled with sand or polymeric sand. Polymeric sand contains binders that harden when activated with water, reducing weed growth and helping lock pavers in place.  In addition, a code-required expansion joint between the coping and the paver is required.
• Avoid plastic sheeting under pavers; it can trap water, block drainage, and promote instability.  This also causes efflorescence to form on the surface.

What Goes Wrong with Bad Pool Paver Installation?

When key steps are skipped or rushed, common problems will arise.

• Pavers are settling or shifting, creating uneven surfaces and tripping hazards.
• Poor drainage causes water to pool, leading to mildew, algae, and erosion beneath the surface.
• Weeds are emerging from joints, undermining both appearance and structure.
• Shortened lifespan, with a deck that quickly becomes more liability than asset.

A well‑designed system, built according to recognized standards, is the best protection against these failures.

Why TCNA & ASTM Standards Matter

Industry standards exist to help you avoid guesswork and ensure performance.  This is not a shortcut and should not be ignored. Most installation defects and failures have been attributed to poor decision-making, including cutting corners and installers reducing installation requirements.

Slip‑Resistance & Safety

For walking surfaces around pools and spas, the Tile Council of North America (TCNA), working with code‑making bodies, defines a required wet dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF) — typically a minimum of ~0.42 for wet conditions under the Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa, & Hot Tub Code (USPSHTC). This helps ensure tiles and pavers remain safe under wet, real‑world use.

Installation Integrity (Exterior & Wet Areas)

The TCNA Handbook provides established methods, for example, F101/F102 for exterior walkways or guides for installing porcelain over concrete slabs. These methods specify:

• Appropriate mortars and setting materials
• When and where to use membranes
• Required drainage and slope
• Full mortar contact where needed
• Expansion joints and movement accommodation
• Compatible, vapor‑permeable grouts and sealers

When your installer follows these published methods, you’re not relying on improvisation; you’re relying on tested assemblies.

A Licenced Contractor is required per CSLB, to perform the paver installation, not using one will leave you exposed to bigger issues.

Material Quality and Long‑Term Durability

For natural stone pavers, ASTM standards should also be observed and guidelines followed.

• ASTM C1527 (dimension stone specifications)
• ASTM C97 (water absorption and density)
• Strength and abrasion tests

Verify that the stone meets accepted performance criteria for density, absorption, surface traction and wear resistance.

What This Means for Homeowners

By specifying:

• Pavers that are tested and certified to the appropriate ASTM standards
• Installations that follow TCNA‑compliant methods

You significantly reduce the risk of:

• Slip hazards
• Premature cracking or delamination
• Water penetration into the base or structure
• Uneven settling and movement

You also add credibility to contractor claims and create a clear technical baseline for the work.

Maintenance and Sealing: What Homeowners Should Know

Having pavers does not mean zero maintenance, but smart, consistent maintenance dramatically extends their life and appearance.

Should You Seal Your Pavers?

Sealing is often recommended, but NOT all sealants are suitable for wet applications.

• Enhance and deepen color
• Reduce staining from food, drinks, leaves, and pool chemicals
• Repel oils and organic debris
• Help protect porous materials (especially natural stone) from water absorption that might lead to cracking, staining, or freeze‑thaw damage (in colder climates)

Not every paver type needs sealing, and not every sealer is appropriate. Always follow the manufacturer's and installer's recommendations for your specific pavement material.

What’s NOT Recommended

- High‑gloss or film‑forming sealers around pools: These can create slick, glossy surfaces when wet, which directly undermines one of the main reasons to choose a textured, slip‑resistant paver in the first place.

- Over‑sealing with non‑breathable products: Multiple layers of the wrong sealer can trap moisture beneath the surface or in the joints, leading to discoloration, efflorescence, mold/mildew growth, and premature surface degradation.

- Harsh cleaners or bleach (especially on natural stone): Strong chemicals can etch the surface, change the texture, and prematurely break down sealers. Always use paver‑safe, pH‑neutral cleaners formulated for the specific material (stone, concrete, or porcelain).

Recommended Maintenance Schedule & Practices

Weekly / Monthly

- Sweep or hose off the surface to remove dirt, leaves, dust, and debris. Regular light cleaning helps prevent buildup that can cause stains, organic growth, or slippery areas.

Every Few Months / Seasonally

- Perform a more thorough cleaning with mild soap and water, then rinse well. - Prioritize this after heavy use, storms, or periods with significant leaf or pollen drop. - For stubborn spots, low‑pressure washing is acceptable. Avoid directing high pressure directly into joints or at paver edges, which can dislodge sand or damage the surface.

Every 2–5 Years (As Needed)

- Re‑evaluate the condition of your sealer. If water no longer beads on the surface, or if pavers show noticeable fading or discoloration, consider reapplying a breathable, textured sealer appropriate to the specific material (stone, concrete, or porcelain). - Many professionals recommend a 3–5‑year cycle for sealing, but local climate, sun exposure, and how heavily the area is used can shorten or extend that interval.

Joint Maintenance

- Check joints periodically. If sand or polymeric sand has eroded or washed out, refill the joints. This helps prevent weed growth, ant tunnels, and interlock loss, and keeps the surface stable and even.

Most Common Questions Homeowners Ask About Pool Pavers

 with Honest Answers

Do pavers get too hot in the sun?

 Yes, darker or denser materials can absorb and retain heat. However, many homeowners find that light‑colored natural stone or porcelain pavers stay relatively comfortable underfoot, even on hot days. Textured surfaces and lighter finishes tend to reflect more heat, making them feel cooler.

Are pavers slippery when wet?

 They can be if you select polished or very smooth finishes. When you choose textured, brushed, tumbled, or slip‑rated porcelain surfaces, pavers generally perform better than flat, smooth concrete or glossy tiles in wet conditions.

What’s the cost difference vs. concrete?

Upfront, pavers usually cost more due to materials, labor, base preparation, joint sand, and possible sealing. Over the long term, that investment is often offset by: ⚫ Easier, localized repairs ⚫ A longer expected lifespan ⚫ A lower likelihood of large‑scale replacement or resurfacing.

How long do pool deck pavers last?

With proper design, professional installation, and consistent maintenance, pavers,  especially porcelain or high‑quality natural stone, can last 20 years or more.

Are all pavers safe for pool decks?

Safety depends on the combination of material, surface finish, and installation quality.  Avoid: Driveway‑grade pavers with unnecessary density or thickness that overheat and are harder to work with. ⚫ Polished or glossy finishes in wet areas. ⚫ Inconsistent or uncertified materials from questionable suppliers.

What about weeds or shifting over time?

If an installer skips proper base compaction, edge restraints, or correct joint filling, pavers can shift, and weeds can appear in the joints. Using polymeric sand, maintaining joints, and ensuring a proper base and edge system from the start significantly reduces these issues.

Is a Paver Pool Deck the Smart Choice for Your Backyard?

Pavers are an excellent fit if you:

- Want a customizable, design‑forward pool deck that complements your home and landscape

- Value safety (slip resistance) and barefoot comfort around the pool

- Are willing to invest in high‑quality materials and professional installation

- Prefer a surface that can be repaired section‑by‑section instead of replacing the entire deck

- Prioritize long‑term performance and aesthetics over the lowest initial bid.

You may want to reconsider or choose another solution if you:

- Are on a very tight budget or compressed timeline

- Prefer a single, uninterrupted slab with minimal joints or patterning

- Do not want any ongoing maintenance (cleaning, joint care, or occasional sealing)

- Have limited access to quality materials or experienced contractors/installers in your market.

Before you decide, always discuss with your installer or supplier:

- Sub‑base preparation and compaction, drainage planning, and slope away from the pool and house - Joint filling strategy (polymeric sand or equivalent), edge restraints, and weed barriers

- Sealer type (if recommended), application schedule, and how local climate and usage affect maintenance

- Material origin, batch consistency, surface finish, and verified slip‑resistance ratings

Making the Right Choice for Your Pool Project

Now that you understand the pros, cons, and practical considerations around pool‑deck pavers, your next step is to consult a trusted installer, pool builder, or landscape professional. The right partner will:

- Evaluate your site conditions (soil type, drainage, climate, pool size, access)

- Help you select the appropriate paver material, thickness, and finish for your specific design and performance goals

- Provide a detailed, realistic quote that includes base prep, delivery, joint materials, edge work, sealing (if applicable), and long‑term maintenance recommendations

Example Paver System Specifications

Prices below reflect material and standard installation only and may vary significantly by region, freight, project complexity, and added features (lighting, curves, coping, custom shapes). Always request a complete quote that includes base preparation, edge work, joint materials, sealing, and freight charges for non‑local materials.

*Costs are approximate and for comparison; actual pricing depends on site conditions, access, detailing, manufacturers, and market conditions. Natural stone sources can also increase material and delivery costs.

You need to learn more about pool expansion joints. The following article will expose the facts.  Also, check out the different types of pool deck options available.