Investing in a pool is a big decision, but what about the pool deck? That’s just as important! Your pool deck isn’t just a frame around the water—it’s where you’ll lounge, entertain, and make summer memories for years to come.
But with so many materials available—Frontier Desert Deck, pavers, natural stone, stamped concrete, and more—how do you decide? As experts in pool deck installation in New Jersey & New York, we’re here to break it all down for you so you can make the best choice for your home.
Let’s go over the pros, cons, and key factors to consider when choosing the perfect pool deck material.
1. Frontier Desert Deck – The Coolest, Most Comfortable Concrete Option
Why Choose It?
✔ Stays cool to the touch—even on hot summer days ☀️
✔ Slip-resistant surface for added safety
✔ Comes in multiple color options
✔ Long-lasting and low-maintenance
If you love the durability and affordability of concrete but hate how hot it gets under the sun, Frontier Desert Deck is your solution. This specialized concrete finish is designed to stay cool to the touch, making it perfect for barefoot comfort around pools.
It also comes in 12 colors and has a slip-resistant texture, making it one of the best choices for families who want both style and safety.
💡 Best for: Homeowners who want a cool, slip-resistant, and stylish concrete alternative without sacrificing durability.
2. Natural Stone Pool Decks – The Ultimate Luxury Choice
Why Choose It?
✔ Stunning, high-end look
✔ Increases home value
✔ Naturally slip-resistant
✔ Stays cool underfoot
If you want a luxurious, resort-style pool deck, natural stone is the way to go. Materials like travertine, bluestone, and flagstone give your pool area a timeless, high-end look while offering excellent durability.
One major perk? Natural stone stays cool—so you won’t burn your feet on hot summer days.
However, it’s also one of the most expensive materials, and it requires regular sealing to prevent stains and weather damage.
💡 Best for: Homeowners looking for an elegant, high-end pool deck with long-lasting durability.
3. Pavers – Durable, Stylish & Easy to Repair
Why Choose It?
✔ Slip-resistant and textured for safety
✔ Doesn’t crack like concrete
✔ Wide variety of colors, styles, and patterns
✔ Easy to repair—just replace individual pavers
Pavers provide a customized, high-end look while being more durable than poured concrete. They allow for flexibility—meaning if the ground shifts, they won’t crack like a solid concrete slab.
Another huge advantage? If one paver gets damaged, you can replace it without redoing the whole deck.
The only downside is that pavers require a longer installation time and have a higher upfront cost compared to regular concrete.
💡 Best for: Homeowners who want aesthetic variety, long-term durability, and easy repairs.
4. Stamped Concrete – The Look of Stone Without the Cost
Why Choose It?
✔ Mimics stone, brick, or tile—at a fraction of the price
✔ Highly customizable
✔ More affordable than real stone
Stamped concrete is a fantastic way to get the high-end look of stone or brick without breaking the bank. With dozens of patterns and colors, it can be tailored to complement your home’s style.
However, it requires sealing to prevent cracking and fading over time. Also, if it’s not textured or treated, stamped concrete can become slippery when wet—so adding a non-slip additive is recommended.
💡 Best for: Homeowners who want a custom, decorative look without the cost of real stone.
5. Pool Coping & Borders – The Finishing Touch
Why Choose It?
✔ Enhances safety around the pool
✔ Creates a seamless transition between the pool and deck
✔ Available in multiple materials (stone, pavers, concrete, brick)
Pool coping is the edge or border around your pool, which protects the pool structure and provides a finished look. It can be made from natural stone, brick, pavers, or stamped concrete—so you can match it perfectly to your deck.
💡 Best for: Anyone looking to enhance the beauty and safety of their pool deck.
What’s the Best Pool Deck Material for YOU?
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Material | Durability | Maintenance | Cost | Heat Resistance | Slip Resistance |
| Frontier Desert Deck | High | Low | 💰 | ✅ | ✅ |
| Natural Stone | High | Medium | 💰💰💰 | ✅ | ✅ |
| Pavers | High | Low | 💰💰 | ✅ | ✅ |
| Stamped Concrete | High | Low-Medium | 💰💰 | ❌ | ❌ (unless treated) |
| Pool Coping | High | Low | 💰 | ✅ | ✅ |
Final Thoughts: Make the Right Choice for Your Pool Deck
Choosing the right pool deck material depends on:
✔ Your Budget – Concrete is the most affordable; natural stone is the most expensive.
✔ Your Climate – If your area gets hot, consider heat-resistant options like Frontier Desert Deck.
✔ Your Style Preferences – Do you want a sleek modern look or a rustic, natural aesthetic?
✔ Maintenance Level – Concrete and pavers require less maintenance than natural stone.
🚀 Need expert advice? Let’s talk! Anna’s Pool Deck has been designing & installing pool decks for 20+ years in New Jersey & New York.
📞 Get a Free Quote Today!