Composite Decking for Swimming Pools: How to Choose?

Choosing the right composite decking involves evaluating several factors tailored to your specific needs and environment. Below are the main considerations:

1. Material Composition and Quality

Composite decking boards are typically made from a mixture of wood fibers and recycled plastics. However, the ratio, type of materials used, and manufacturing process can vary widely, affecting the board’s quality and performance.

• Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC): This common type combines wood fibers with polyethylene or polypropylene plastic. WPC boards tend to have a natural wood-like texture and appearance.

• PVC Composite: Made primarily from polyvinyl chloride, these boards are 100% plastic, making them more resistant to moisture but sometimes less natural in look and feel.

• Capped Composite Boards: These have a protective outer shell or cap made of a polymer material, which enhances durability, stain resistance, and UV protection.

For swimming pools, selecting a composite decking board with a high-quality cap or enhanced surface layer is advisable. This cap protects against fading, staining from pool chemicals, and moisture penetration, extending the lifespan of your decking.

Considerations:

• Check the density and weight of the boards—heavier boards often indicate higher material quality.

• Ensure the decking is non-toxic and safe for barefoot traffic.

• Verify the product’s resistance to mold, mildew, and algae.

• Confirm that the decking complies with fire safety standards relevant to your location.

2. Slip Resistance and Safety

Wet pool decks can be hazardous. Selecting composite decking with a slip-resistant surface is critical for safety.

• Look for decking with a textured or grooved surface that provides traction.

• Some manufacturers incorporate anti-slip additives in the cap layer or surface texture.

• Avoid decking boards with overly smooth or glossy finishes that become slippery when wet.

Tip: If safety is a priority, ask about the decking’s coefficient of friction (COF) rating, which measures slip resistance. A higher COF value means better traction.

3. Color and Finish Options

Composite decking comes in a wide range of colors and finishes to match your pool design and surrounding landscape. Choosing the right color can enhance your outdoor aesthetics and complement the pool’s water tone, paving, and greenery.

• Light Colors: White, beige, and light gray tones reflect sunlight and tend to stay cooler underfoot, making them ideal for hot climates.

• Medium Tones: Earthy browns and tans offer a natural wood look and blend well with garden settings.

• Dark Colors: Deep browns, charcoal, and black composite decking add sophistication but may absorb more heat.

Considerations:

• Darker colors can get hot in direct sunlight, so think about your climate and comfort.

• Some composite decking products feature color variegation or wood grain patterns for a more natural appearance.

• UV protection in the coating or cap layer prevents color fading over time.

4. Board Size, Shape, and Installation Style

Composite decking boards vary in length, width, thickness, and edge profile. These dimensions affect both the deck’s appearance and installation process.

• Length: Longer boards reduce the number of seams but may be heavier and harder to handle.

• Width: Wider boards cover more surface area but might be prone to slight warping if low quality.

• Thickness: Thicker boards typically provide better strength and durability.

• Edge Profile: Some boards have square edges, others have rounded or beveled edges. Edge style can influence the deck’s final look.

Installation styles:

• Face-screw: Traditional installation with screws visible on the top surface.

• Hidden fasteners: Clips that secure boards from beneath, creating a clean surface with no visible screws.

• Grooved edges: Allow use of specialized clips for hidden fastening.

Choosing the right size and fastening style can simplify installation and improve the deck’s aesthetics.

5. Environmental and Sustainability Considerations

Many composite decking products use recycled materials, making them an environmentally friendly choice. When selecting composite decking for your pool:

• Look for products certified by environmental standards such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or GREENGUARD certification for low chemical emissions.

• Consider boards with high recycled content.

• Check if the manufacturer offers a take-back program or recycling options for end-of-life decking.

Sustainable decking reduces environmental impact without sacrificing performance.

6. Cost and Warranty

Budget often plays a role in material selection. Composite decking is generally more expensive upfront than traditional wood but offers savings over time through reduced maintenance.

• Compare costs per square foot, including fasteners and installation.

• Factor in long-term savings due to durability and low upkeep.

• Review warranty terms carefully — top-quality composite decking usually offers warranties ranging from 10 to 25 years, covering fading, staining, and structural integrity.

Choosing decking with a strong warranty signals confidence from the manufacturer in their product’s durability.

7. Maintenance Requirements

One of the primary advantages of composite decking is low maintenance, but requirements vary by product.

• Some composite boards need only routine cleaning with soap and water.

• Others may require periodic power washing or specialized cleaners to remove stains or algae.

• Avoid decking that requires sealing, sanding, or painting.

Check the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines and ensure they align with your lifestyle and willingness to care for the deck.

8. Climate Compatibility

Your local climate heavily influences decking performance.

• In hot, sunny regions, UV protection and heat resistance are critical.

• In humid or rainy climates, boards must resist moisture absorption and mold growth.

• In cold regions, freeze-thaw cycles can impact decking durability; choose products tested for these conditions.

• Coastal environments demand materials resistant to salt corrosion and high moisture.

Selecting composite decking designed or tested for your climate ensures longer-lasting results.

9. Aesthetic Compatibility with Pool Surroundings

Your decking should harmonize with the pool design, landscaping, and outdoor furniture.

• Coordinate decking color and finish with pool tile, coping stones, or pavers.

• Consider complementary textures, such as wood grain, to blend with natural elements.

• For modern pool designs, sleek and uniform colors work well.

• Rustic or traditional pools pair nicely with warm, wood-like finishes.

Visual harmony enhances the overall appeal and value of your outdoor space.

10. Supplier Selection and Support

Choosing a reliable composite decking supplier is essential to ensure quality, availability, and customer service.

Key factors when evaluating suppliers:

• Product Range: Wide variety of decking profiles, colors, and accessories.

• Quality Assurance: Certifications, testing reports, and quality control processes.

• Technical Support: Assistance with product selection, installation guidelines, and troubleshooting.

• Lead Time and Availability: Ability to deliver on schedule.

• Warranty and After-Sales Service: Clear warranty policies and responsive customer care.

• Sustainability Commitment: Suppliers that prioritize eco-friendly practices.

When dealing with suppliers, request samples to assess product quality firsthand and verify product specifications.