Why Composite Decking is Better for Pool Decks

Homeowners who are considering building a pool in their backyards have more choices than ever before now that composite decking materials have advanced in appearance, durability and strength. Today, homeowners no longer have to choose between the high cost of building a concrete or masonry platform around their pool and the high maintenance required to keep a deck made of traditional lumber safe and attractive. For many of the same reasons that people are installing hot tubs on their new composite decks, pool installers are now also recommending their clients consider composite decking around their pools, too.

Here are few reasons why composite decking is delivering a terrific combination of value and performance for homeowners considering adding a pool to their outdoor living space.

Built-in moisture resistance – Where there’s a pool, there’s apt to be water – a lot of it. Made in Maine, DuraLife’s unique polypropylene and hardwood composite decking material features a co-extruded, capped surface that allows water to easily drain from its surface. This provides a safer, drier surface caused by rain and splash over from the pool and also greatly reduces off-season damage caused by expansion and contraction due to moisture absorption and temperature variation. Unlike traditional lumber that must be regularly stained and painted to protect it from water damage and mold growth, composite decking such as DuraLife’s Siesta and MVP are made from a polypropylene composite material and a polypropylene cap stock that are inert and naturally repel water.

Safer underfoot – Another unintended hazard that can occur poolside includes splinters and cuts from uneven, unstable or weathered surfaces. Unlike traditional lumber decking, using composite decking around pools can provide a smooth, clean surface for many years with little to no maintenance. Some composites, including DuraLife decking also contain material ingredients that deliver ultraviolet (UV) ray resistance, reducing the damage of prolonged exposure to the sun. This allows composites to retain their smooth, splinter free surface much longer than traditional wood.

Cooler to the touch - While its widely knows that darker colors both absorb and retain heat energy longer than lighter colors, certain types of materials are also more prone to heat absorption than others. For example, composite decking made with polypropylene, including DuraLife polypro decking, will generally maintain a surface temperature that is cooler underfoot than other decking products made with polyethylene composite or PVC materials.

Composite Pool Decks: The “Look and Feel” of Wood, Only Better - Another recent development that homeowners who are considering whether or not to build a composite pool deck should consider is the introduction of new composites that deliver many of the same characteristics as real wood. Not only are composite decking makers now able to more accurately mix colors to mimic the look of hardwoods such as teak, mahogany, walnut and cherry, some manufacturers such as DuraLife are using specially designed equipment to add a deeply embossed (non-repeating) wood grain that delivers excellent traction, even when wet.

No Additional Framing Required - Unlike previous generations of composite decking that required additional framing, building a composite pool deck uses essentially the same type and quantity of pressure (PT) joists and posts. For example, Duralife Siesta profile decking is manufactured in Maine to standard lengths of 12’, 16’ and 20’ and can be installed over traditionally spaced 20" O.C. (on-center) or 16" O.C. joists for angled decking patterns.

Advanced Fastening Systems & Slip-Resistant Surfaces Are Foot-Friendly - Another reason why composites are quickly becoming the best deck choice for pools is because of how the decking is attached to the frame. Advanced fastening systems such as the Fastenator and revolutionary StepClip™ system deliver a deck surface that is free of any visible screws or nails. This not only makes the deck exceptionally attractive, it also reduces the risk of injury caused from exposed nails, screws or splinters.

For many years, builders and homeowners have known that composite decks are an excellent choice for creating an outdoor living space that looks great and lasts longer than one made with traditional lumber. Not only are new composite decking materials stronger and easier to clean, they are also safer because they won’t splinter, crack or rot. Now, new developments in composite decking manufacturing are delivering additional benefits, such as UV protection and slip-resistant surfaces that make composites the best deck for pools, too!

Get Samples shipped to your home or contact DuraLife now to learn more.

This article is made possible by DuraLife. DuraLife’s unique polypropylene and hardwood composite decking materials simply outperform all other wood and composite decking products. More solid and safe under foot, DuraLife decking is backed by a 25-year warranty. It is stain and fade resistant, mold and mildew resistant, and is available in the colors and deck railing options you want. Get Samples, try our Composite Deck & Railing Visualizer, or contact DuraLife now to learn more.

Photo and deck by Designer Outdoors WA.