Different Types of Pool Coping Pavers

In this 5-minute article, you’ll get a quick overview of the most popular materials for pool coping — from travertine to concrete to brick.

Let’s get started!

The right pool coping pavers can turn a boring and drab pool deck into a high-end work of art. And the first step to choosing the right pool coping pavers is understanding the different materials used in making them.

Here are 4 of the most popular materials you’ll find when searching for pool coping pavers.

Types of Paver Materials for Pool Coping

Here are the top 5 maintenance tips for flagstone coping.

Brick Pavers

Brick pavers are budget-friendly and durable. And thanks to their small size, they’re easier to install around a swimming pool with a lot of curves.

Brick coping pavers come in a variety of colors and styles to complement the rest of the pool area. A lot of homeowners use them in combination with a pool deck that’s made from the same pavers.

Brick coping also comes with different edge shapes — like rounded or bullnose — that make getting in and out of the pool or sitting on the pool edge more comfortable.

Concrete Pavers

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Concrete pool coping pavers are quickly becoming one of the most popular options. Why?

The sheer variety of options. If you think of a concrete paver as just grey and uninspiring, think again! Specialty blends of concrete can be made in any color and with textures that look like travertine, marble, and even granite, while costing much less than the real stone.
Custom shapes. Companies can create concrete pavers in virtually any shape and design.
Strength and durability. Reinforced concrete is one of the strongest building materials. Concrete pavers are often reinforced with rebar and fiberglass fibers.

Natural Stone Pavers

It’s hard to beat the timeless beauty of natural stone. And since it’s a natural material, stone just seems to blend in perfectly with any outdoor living area. Natural stone is also a great choice for pools because it’s durable and slip-resistant as long as the surface isn’t polished.

Some of the most common types of stone pavers are:

Travertine
Limestone
Marble
Granite
Flagstone

Poured Concrete Coping

Poured concrete coping is one of the most budget-friendly options. And depending on the type of pool, the coping and pool deck can be all one piece.

Concrete decking is durable and since it’s a versatile material, the concrete can be tinted and stamped to match the rest of the hardscape. Stamped concrete done by pros can look just like real natural stone like travertine or flagstone.

Photo by Sika Scofield - Browse home design photos

So now that you’ve got some ideas, let’s answer a few questions you might still have.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use pavers as pool coping?

Yes. Just make sure the coping pavers are separated from the pavers in the rest of the pool area by a flexible expansion joint.

What are pool pavers made of?

They can be made from a variety of materials like travertine, reinforced concrete, concrete & epoxy blends, brick, and outdoor patio pavers.

What goes between pool coping and pavers?

Between the coping and the rest of the decking should be an expansion (or transition) joint. This is filled with a foam backer rod and a self-leveling sealant.

Is pool coping necessary?

Every pool needs some type of coping around its perimeter. It helps secure and protect the pool liner, direct water away from the pool, and give you a safe place to sit and sip a cold drink on a hot summer day!

What can I use for pool coping?

Pool coping should be a durable material that’s slip-resistant but not too rough on the skin. That’s why a lot of homeowners choose edging pieces made from tumbled natural stone or purpose-made concrete coping pavers.

How long should pool coping last?

Properly installed and maintained pool coping should last 10-30 years.