A beautiful swimming pool creates endless opportunities for summer fun and entertainment. Whether you're looking to renovate an existing in-ground pool on your property or are interested in building a new pool, there are many considerations to keep in mind. From sizing and placement to materials and accessories, the decisions you make regarding your swimming pool will greatly affect the finished product.
At Connecticut Stone, we carry the natural stone and other quality materials you need to create an inviting backyard oasis that you can enjoy for years to come. Explore some of our tile and stone options below, along with their most popular pool applications, to help create your dream swimming pool design! And remember, our experienced and knowledgeable team at Connecticut Stone is always here to answer any questions you may have along the way.
Many in-ground pools incorporate some sort of tiling into the design. Some common examples of areas where you may often find tile include negative edge pools, tanning ledges, and spas or spa spillways. Furthermore, many clients tile their swimming pool water lines, which typically run about 6" along the entire perimeter of the pool.
Because of our unique climate here in New England, it is important to choose durable materials for this application. Specifically, your pool tiles need to be able to withstand the area's harsh climate and annual freeze/thaw cycle.
So, which tile is the best option for your pool? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the overall style and design of the pool. Here are a few types of tile that we commonly use at Connecticut Stone:
Glass tiles have become increasingly popular for use in pools because they pair beautifully with transparent water. Our glass tiles are available in various colors, sizes, patterns, and finishes - lending themselves to seemingly endless design opportunities. No matter which glass tile you choose, it is important to select something that is specifically rated for exterior swimming pools here in New England.
Sizing is an important factor, too; for example, tiles that are too large could crack due to thermal shock. This is why many clients choose small mosaic tile formats, as the smaller size is less prone to cracking and also easier to apply over curved surfaces. For more recommendations on glass tile types suitable for use in swimming pools, reach out to one of our Connecticut Stone team members.
No matter which glass tile you select, it is important to work with a qualified pool installer who will follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper setting and installation.
Like glass, porcelain is available in a variety of colors, finishes and sizes. This type of tile is great for use in pools because it is durable, naturally stain and scratch resistant. Meanwhile, porcelain is often more budget-friendly than glass tile.
While porcelain is relatively versatile, selecting a porcelain tile that is suitable for use in swimming pools is vital to ensuring longevity. Likewise, working with an experienced pool professional who knows how to install the tile correctly will result in a beautiful and long-lasting finish.
Looking for a classic and elegant choice for your swimming pool liner? Consider natural stone tiles. Specifically, slate and granite are two popular options that clients love to use in their pools. Some people like to use stone tiles to match the pool's waterline and coping. This can help to create a crisp and seamless look. We have even seen clients and pool contractors use complimentary stones on infinity edge pools, matching the coping and decking for a truly unique and eye-catching look.
Some other popular options of stone tile to consider (depending on the exact look you're going for) include slate and Black Absolute Granite.
In addition to using stone tiles along pool liners, many clients also opt to use pool coping, which refers to the exposed edge of the pool. These measurements are typically between 1"-3" inches in thickness, 12"-14" wide and anywhere from 18" to 96" long.
Several stone options can be suitable for use in pool coping.
Bluestone treads are a beautiful and versatile option for pool coping. Not only is bluestone dense and durable, but it comes in a wide range of sizes and thicknesses.
Incorporate natural elements from the sea into your pool design with limestone coping. Limestone is a sedimentary stone formed at the basin of the sea, containing fragments of shell and sea life. It is also available in a wide range of colors and styles, including:
Achieve a truly luxurious look in your pool design with granite coping, which will stand up to even the harsh temperature extremes here in New England. As one of the densest stones available, this material is as durable as it is beautiful. Whether you want a modern look with our Hispania granite or something lighter like our Phoenicia Buff, you have plenty of options to choose from with Connecticut Stone.
Natural stone coping is an excellent option for irregular shaped swimming pools. That's because this stone option tends to be smaller in size and is thus versatile enough to be installed around curved edges and other areas that may prove challenging for traditional bluestone or granite treads. Mosaic coping is available in a number of colors and styles to suit your taste.
Concrete pavings stones are a durable and affordable option for pool coping. Available in a variety of size, style and color options, concrete paving stones are barefoot friendly in the hot summer months.
Using natural stone or concrete pavers for your pool decking is a great choice, especially if you're looking to create a sense of continuity from your pool to the surrounding area. We recommend exploring some of the stone options below to get started.
In addition to offering traditional styling and beauty, bluestone is a practical choice for pool decking due to its non-slip characteristics. This stone is available in multiple colors, sizes, patterns and finishes.
Available in a variety of colors, mosaic flagging provides an organic, free-form look that is more natural and casual. This type of stone can be complex to work with, so it is important to hire a qualified stone mason for this material.
Another pool decking option to consider is granite pavers, which offer a range of color and textural options. These pavers are typically around 1.25" thick and vary in size from 12"x12" up to 24"x24", depending on the look you're going for. Popular finishes here include Flamed or Sandblasted, both of which offer a slip-resistant surface.
Consider limestone as an option for your swimming pool decking for its ability to stay cool to the touch, even after being exposed to the sun's UV rays all day long. Keep in mind that not all limestone is suitable for use in exterior applications here in New England. Some examples of limestones that will hold up to the freeze/thaw cycle include our popular Jerusalem Grey, which comes in a dual finish including Sandblasted or Sandblasted and Brushed. These limestones measure 1.25" thick and vary in size from 12"x12" up to 24"x36" to suit your needs.
Connecticut Stone is also proud to carry Valders Limestone, which is extremely durable and suitable for pool decking. Because of its sophisticated look, durability, and quality, experts love working with Valders Limestone to get a high-end style.
Available in a variety of colors, styles, sizes and patterns, concrete paving stones are a durable and affordable option for pool decking.
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