The right pool paving will be able to withstand the exposure to salt, chlorine and other chemicals. Quality pavers won’t get too hot or be too slippery under wet feet. Finally, they will be well integrated into the rest of your garden.

Key factors when choosing the right pool paving

Whatever your design style, there are a variety of pool paving options to choose from. We take a look at a few of the key considerations when choosing the right pool pavers and some of our most popular stone for this setting.

1. Appearance

Consider how the colour tones of your pool paving work with your garden’s elements, materials and plants. For example, if you’re combining timber decking and stone, select a complementary colour tone to create a more seamless transition between surfaces.

Also, think about how the stone’s appearance works with the style of architecture. For example, the aesthetics of Crazy Paving may work well around the pool of a ’60s home like the Bower Architecture project above.

2. Durability

A poolside environment is harsh, due to its exposure to salt, chlorine and other chemicals. It’s also a high-traffic space, so the right pool paving needs to be able to withstand wear and tear from frequent use and furniture.

3. Cost

An important part of the selection process is understanding your pool paving cost. Stone is a cost-effective material due to its long lifespan and durable nature. It will also require less upkeep than some other options (see tips for maintaining natural stone pavers).

4. Finish

The surface finish should be a top priority when choosing the right pool paving for your outdoor space. You’ll need to select one with a non-slip finish to avoid spills. For example, Bluestone in a sawn finish is much more suitable than a honed paver, which becomes very slippery when wet.

5. Heat & Glare

Consider how the surface of your pavers will feel underfoot on a hot summer’s day. As with any material or surface, left in the sun it will eventually get hot, but some stone will be hotter than others. If exposed to extreme sunlight, select a lighter, denser paver. It’s also worth factoring in how much glare you’ll experience. Typically, the lighter colour the stone, the greater the glare.

6. Pool coping

If you’re paving around your pool, consider whether you run it along the edge or use a different coping material. If you are selecting the one stone, you’ll want to choose a paver that integrates with the rest of the landscape. You’re best to select a material that appeals aesthetically and performs well.

Read more about pool coping. 

7. Sealing

As natural stone is porous, it is vital you use the right seal for your pool pavers, especially in such a harsh environment. If sealed incorrectly, overtime the stone’s quality can be compromised when exposed to salt, chlorine and chemicals. By sealing your pavers with the right product, you’ll be protecting their natural beauty and ensuring its longevity. Consult the stone supplier or a sealant professional such as Dry Treat before considering any sealing product. It is important to note that dip sealing pool pavers is now the industry standard.

Find out more about sealing your stone.

Our most popular pool paving options

There are various pavers suitable for pools, so you’re sure to find one that suits your design ideas and tastes. Some of our most popular pool paving tile options include:

Travertine

Travertine is a popular pool paver for its classic aesthetic and durability. The stone’s light, warm palette suits both exterior and interior applications, while look stunning against a tranquil body of water.

Bluestone

As Bluestone is extremely dense and hardwearing, it’s a high-performance pool paver. It’s also available in a variety of formats from tiles to cobblestones. Due to its non-slip texture, a sawn finish is ideal for poolside applications.

Limestone

Because of the wide spectrum of colours and textures, Limestone is popular for pool paving. From cool greys to warm beiges, the rich patina of the stone adds a sense of age and sophistication to any outdoor area.

Granite

Due to its bush-hammered finish, Granite pavers provide a non-slip surface ideal for pool settings. It’s grey colour palette offers an elegant aesthetic that marries well with contemporary or traditional architecture.

For more advice about choosing the right pool pavers, speak to the team at your nearest Eco Outdoor showroom. More pool inspiration and advice can be found in the Pools section of our Learning Library.