Month: March 2025

When designing a pool deck, it is important to consider not only aesthetic preferences, but also the functionality of the space. Whether you have children that swim regularly or you host many backyard parties, you need a surface that can withstand the wear and tear of the daily use and frequent exposure to chlorine and sunlight. In addition, it must be slip-resistant and easy to clean so that guests can enjoy the deck without fear of slipping or getting wet.

There are many different materials available that can be used for pool decking, each with its own unique advantages. Some of the most popular options include pavers, tiles, and natural stone. These are all durable and can withstand the unique stresses that a pool deck is subject to. However, they vary in appearance and cost, so it is important to choose a material that suits your design preferences and fits your budget.

Natural Stone

Natural stone provides a classic and sophisticated look to any pool deck. It is available in a variety of colors, shapes and textures, allowing you to create an elegant poolside area that will stand out from the crowd. Limestone, sandstone and other stones are ideal for pool decks because they offer durability and are cool to the touch. Some stones are unglazed, which makes them more slip-resistant than glazed tile and can be installed in a range of patterns. For example, the Borealis collection offers an oak-look with a seductive tactile component that is complemented by a slip-resistance rating of R11C. Another option is La Matiere, a Mediterranean-inspired take on a cement-look product that has an R13C slip-resistance rating.

Pavers are individual pieces that are often laid in a herringbone pattern to form a grid-like structure. They are ideal for modern designs because they offer a sleek and contemporary aesthetic and can be made in a wide range of colors. Pavers are also easy to repair and maintain.

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are durable and available in a variety of colors, sizes and finishes. They are easier to maintain than natural stone because they can be easily cleaned with a pressure washer. However, they are more slippery than textured stone and unglazed tile, so it is important to choose a slip-resistant glaze or a porcelain tile with a textured surface.

Surface Coatings

For an easy way to update your existing pool deck, surface coatings can provide a water-resistant, UV-blocking finish that is easy to clean and non-slippery. They can be brushed or sprayed on the existing surface, which means that your pool deck can be resurfaced in much less time than installing a new deck and at a fraction of the price. These coatings are available in a wide range of colors and textures, from a basic lace pattern to high-end chiseled granite looks. Some of these coatings also have anti-microbial properties to protect the surface from algae and bacteria.

The ecodeck range of decking is designed to provide a durable and long-lasting solution, while at the same time offering environmental advantages. The ecodeck decking range is constructed from a mix of timber fibres and recycled plastics. This combination of reclaimed materials significantly reduces the demand for raw wood and alleviates deforestation. The reclaimed timber fibres are derived from hardwood offcuts and sawdust, which diverts these waste products away from landfill and gives them a new purpose. The recycled plastics are sourced from post-industrial and consumer waste. The reclaimed timber and recycled plastics are blended with bonding agents and additives to improve the strength, durability and longevity of the product.

The result is a decking material that has been designed to perform and to look great on board superyachts. The decking is completely impermeable, meaning it is unable to support the growth of algae or other water-borne organisms and provides an excellent grip to prevent the build up of moisture. It is easy to clean and does not splinter or crack and has been proven to be extremely resistant to the effects of UV.

The reclaimed materials used in ecodeck are fully recyclable and are supplied with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer’s defects. It is compatible with a range of surface finishes including gravel, stone, soil, grass and can be used on slope inclines of up to 1 in 4. The permeable 40mm grid is compliant with Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) regulations.

Ekodeck boards are available in a range of beautiful colours to suit any environment or style. The Designer Series is BAL-29 rated and contains fire retardant additives which makes them suitable for use in areas where the risk of ignition or combustion is high. Ekodeck Classic is not BAL-29 rated but is still a good choice for Darwin, as it is made for Australia and is highly stain resistant.

A pergola on deck adds a sense of grandeur to your outdoor space, framing it in an inviting and eye-catching way. Whether you’re crafting a rustic retreat or a modern lounge, adding this charming feature is an excellent way to bring form and function together in your dream outdoor living area. But if you want to ensure your pergola is a seamless extension of your home, proper installation and careful planning are required. Here’s a look at some of the key steps to take.

Picking the right size pergola for your deck starts with dimensions. Standard sizes work well for homeowners who want the convenience of a plug-and-play option, but custom-sized pergolas are also available, allowing you to customize your addition to the needs and aesthetic of your outdoor living space.

Once you’ve chosen your preferred model, it’s time to prepare the deck for its new addition. This step is essential for ensuring the integrity of your existing deck, as you’ll need to check every board and joist to guarantee they can handle the added weight. You’ll also need to clear the space by removing any hazards or items that could be obstructive during construction.

Anchoring your pergola to the deck is an important part of the process. Since the structure is elevated, it’s more prone to movement from wind and other elements, so you need to make sure all connections are secure. Using bolts and brackets that are designed specifically for this task will help you achieve the strongest results.

It’s also a good idea to use ACQ-treated wood for the posts. This will resist ongoing damage from the weather, insects and other factors that can weaken the structure over time.

Once the foundation is set, it’s time to start assembling the pergola’s skeleton. Hoisting up the posts and positioning each beam is like drawing the rooftop of your backyard oasis, bringing your vision to life as the pergola’s framework comes together. Once all the beams are in place, you’re ready to add the finishing touches that will make your pergola a true backyard oasis.

One of the easiest ways to enhance your pergola is by adding greenery. Climbing plants like honeysuckle, passion flower, potato vine or grapevine can add both beauty and functionality to your outdoor living space by providing shade and a calming backdrop for lounging and entertaining. A few carefully placed hanging baskets of flowers or potted plants will also do the trick. By adding lighting fixtures, you can elevate your deck’s atmosphere and create a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This will make it even more enjoyable to spend time outdoors. If you’re interested in adding a pergola to your deck, contact Composite Carpentry for expert guidance on design options and materials that will fit your home and lifestyle. We offer a full range of services for all your residential and commercial needs.

Wood decks have long been a popular choice for homeowners seeking a stylish and comfortable outdoor space. But recently, more and more people have been choosing low-maintenance composite decks over traditional wood decks. While composite decking can cost more upfront than wood, it has a lower total cost of ownership than a standard wood deck over its lifetime. It’s important to know how much a composite deck costs before you start building one, however, because there are many factors that can impact the price.

For example, the size of a composite deck can significantly impact its overall cost. Small pool decks tend to be less expensive than larger multi-level designs, which may require a specialized contractor and additional materials to build. The type of framing and support structure also impacts composite deck prices. Pressure-treated wood is typically a good option, but some homeowners choose metal framing for greater durability. These materials can increase the cost of the deck by up to $5 per square foot.

Additionally, the color of the composite deck can affect its price. Lighter colors like greys and browns are usually less expensive than dark shades, which can become extremely hot underfoot on a sunny day. However, it’s critical to choose a colour that you are absolutely sure about, as composite products cannot easily be modified once installed.

Before committing to any particular composite decking brand, it’s essential to compare the options available in your area. Homeowners can contact a local deck installation company or lumberyard to learn more about the brands that are available and discuss which one might be best for their project. It’s also important to limit your search to manufacturers that have a current engineering report, since some building authorities won’t issue a construction permit without these reports.

Composite decking manufacturers have a variety of options available to match any style or budget. For example, low-cost composite decking from Trex comes in a wide range of colours and finishes. Its wood-like grain pattern mimics the look of real wood, and it’s available in multiple sizes to accommodate different railing systems. Its capped polymer planks are impregnated with a protective cap that makes it resistant to mold, rot and insects, while its cellular core prevents sagging or warping. This allows homeowners to enjoy their deck for decades to come while keeping the surface looking new and ensuring that it is safe and comfortable underfoot. This is a great alternative to natural wood, which can splinter and develop cracks over time.