What is pool coping, and is it necessary?
Heres all you oughta know about this important part of your pools anatomy.
If youreplanning to buildor renovate a pool, you may have come across the term pool coping.
Credit:Cavan Images / Robert Niedring / Getty Images
Essentially, it is the edge around the pool perimeter.
Here are the basics on the various types, materials available, and installation costs.
Pool coping is the cap or edging surrounding aswimming poolstop perimeter.
Its the area you sit on, dive from, or stand on at the pools edge.
Coping can be straight or curved.
It is available in a wide range of materials, from concrete to sandstone.
There are also different types, such as bullnose and top mount.
It is designed to cover the concrete and metal bond beamthe horizontal support structure around a pools perimeter.
Its purpose is also to improve the ease of pool entry and exit.
Regular cleaning and sealing prolong the copings life span andmaintain its appearance.
Concrete Coping
Concrete coping is a classic.
It is easy to install and budget-friendly.
However,concretecoping can crack due to bad weather or shifting soil underneath, among other causes.
Each kind of stone has its advantages.Travertine is slip-resistantand cooler than the other stones.
Marble adds an elegant, luxurious touch but can be slick to walk on.
Sandstone has rustic charm and can be cut into various shapes.
This stone is perfect for complicated pool designs or those with multiple compartments.
Brick Coping
Brick coping is slip-resistant and low maintenance.
Choices include natural clay bricks or brick pavers.
Bullnose Coping
Bullnose coping is made from pavers placedaround the pool.
It is usually made of concrete.
This pool coping can be poured on-site for a seamless look or installed with bricks.
This mounting is commonly used with infinity pools.
It is often used with concrete or vinyl-lined pools.
Average costs can start at $5 and climb to $60 per square foot.
Concrete is the most affordable, and stone is typically the most expensive.
However, labor costs vary widely by company and location.
To understand the estimated expenses for your specific project, request multiple quotes fromreputable contractorsworking in your ZIP code.
Be sure to request an itemization with the cost of materials separate from the installation cost.
Pool Coping Installation
Pool coping also varies by installation methods.
Some coping styles require mortar or adhesive, while others feature a tongue-and-groove system or interlocking design.
You need a professional to secure a sound installation process.
First, the installer prepares the pool area bycleaning and leveling the deck surface.
Then, the coping is carefully measured and marked to ensure accurate placement and alignment.
When selecting pool coping, consider a material with slip-resistant properties.
Opting for a textured or non-slip surface can significantlyenhance safetyand reduce the risk of accidents because of slippery conditions.
However, your design may work with darker hues, so consider whats important to you when deciding.
Coping often deteriorates due to grout disintegration, which is triggered by water penetration.
Its preferable to drain the pool before replacing the coping.
