Best Swimming Pool Coping Ideas, According to Pool Builders

Pool coping is an essential element of a swimming pool, enhancing both safety and aesthetic appeal. With various materials and swimming pool coping ideas available, homeowners can choose the perfect option to suit their outdoor living space.

What is Pool Coping?

Pool coping runs along the edge of the pool. It protects the pool shell and prevents water damage while improving visual appeal and safety.

Why is Pool Coping Important?

• Visually appealing, adding finesse to any backyard pool design
• Enhances safety, with many slip-resistant pool coping options available
• Protects the pool's structure, particularly the pool shell, from water damage
• Helps direct the flow of outside water away from the pool and toward proper drainage systems
• Provides a secure area for swimmers to hold on to the edge of the pool

Top Ideas for Pool Coping

Choose the Right Type of Pool Coping

There are different types of coping. Which one is best depends on the look and feel you want.

Popular options include:

• Cantilevered coping that goes over the edge of the pool.
• Bullnose coping that has a rounded edge, creating a safe, appealing pool edge.
• Square-edge coping that, as the name suggests, has a crisp square edge to create a modern look.
• Top-mount coping, or half-round coping, offers a rounded edge that extends slightly over the pool. It's typically made of aluminum with a weather-proof finish.
• Beveled coping, which creates a sloped edge along the pool.

Choose the Right Pool Coping Materials

The materials make the pool. Perhaps your most important consideration for a pool coping project is what materials you will use.

Natural Stone Coping

Natural stone materials, including sandstone, flagstone, bluestone, and travertine pool coping, are popular choices with non-slip properties. They work well with free-form pool designs, provide a natural look, offer visual appeal, and enhance safety.

Concrete Coping

Precast concrete pool coping is a common choice for in-ground pool coping due to its affordability and availability in various colors and finishes.

Paver & Brick Coping

Brick coping is a great option for creating a decorative border around the pool, while pavers can offer a low-maintenance solution. Both options provide a classic look that works well with in-ground pools.

Porcelain Coping

Porcelain coping is an option for those wanting a high-end modern pool. It pairs well with other water features like a waterfall, swim spa, and elevated outdoor kitchen area to create an air of total elegance.

Mix and Match Textures

Let functionality and style meet by mixing and matching textures. For example, you can use a variety of natural stone materials to create a mosaic border that adds personality to your space.

Incorporate Other Water Features

Incorporate your pool area with other water features like waterfalls or swim spas for a truly elevated look.

Swimming Pool Coping FAQs

What are the best coping options for pools?

The "best" coping option depends entirely on what you value matter most:

• Best for budget: Cantilevered concrete
• Best low maintenance: Poured concrete
• Best for heat resistance: Light-colored natural stone like limestone and travertine
• Best for slip resistance: Travertine and granite
• Most durable: Natural stone like granite and limestone

What can be used as pool coping?

Popular options for creating pool coping include:

• Concrete
• Brick
• Natural stone
• Composite materials

How much should pool coping cost?

Pool coping is priced per linear foot, and can range from $10 to $60 per linear foot.

The exact price of pool coping depends on factors like:

• Location
• Size of the pool area
• Materials
• If professional pool builders install the coping

What do you put between pool coping and concrete?

For optimal performance, a layer of weather-resistant sealant known as pool mastic ("pool caulk") should go between pool coping and concrete, along with other potential heat expansion joints.

How do I put coping around a pool?

Installing pool coping can be time-consuming and labor-intensive work, especially when done right. Improper installation can mean your pool's structure, longevity, and safety are at risk.

It's not an easy DIY pool project for homeowners.

For delicate projects like installing pool coping, or even finding out which swimming pool coping ideas are feasible for your outdoor space, hiring expert pool builders can be the right choice.