How Much Does a Pool Deck or Coping Cost?

Pool Deck Costs

On average, building a pool deck costs around $5,000. Most homeowners pay between $3,000 and $12,000 for this project.

Where you fall on that range depends on the materials you choose, the size of the patio, and the difficulty of the terrain. A simple wood deck for an above-ground pool may only need a $3,000 budget. A custom stamped concrete surround can go as high as $12,000.

Average Cost to Build a Pool Deck

Above-Ground Pool Deck Cost

Cost factors include the size and type of above-ground deck as well as the quality of materials. A set of stairs adds up to $400 to your budget.

This project is most similar to the cost of building a patio anywhere else on your property, which ranges from $4,000 to $10,000.

Inground Pool Deck Costs Per Square Foot

For an inground pool, a patio area ranges between $3 and $40 per square foot. That wide range depends largely on the materials you use to build the space.

Pool Deck Pavers Costs

Pavers are the most cost-effective option at $3 to $7 per square foot, not including labor. They're pre-fabricated blocks that can be cut to size and set in your property.

Compared to poured concrete, which costs between $6 and $15 per square foot, pavers are easier to install. But they're more difficult to customize and will not last as long (or keep weeds away) as more custom poured and stamped alternatives that match the exact shape, size, and seamless look you want.

Stamped Concrete Pool Deck Price

Stamped or textured concrete is a customized version of poured concrete, with a price between $12 and $20 per square foot including labor. While the poured substance is still wet, the builder will stamp it to look like stones, brick, or a range of other materials. The more you customize in color and design, the more expensive the project will be.

Precast Concrete

Precast decking costs $5 to $12 per square foot, without installation. Consider this a compromise between pavers and poured concrete. The builder will pour and cure fresh materials into an existing mold. This results in a more stable construction than pavers but less customizability than custom-poured patios.

Coral Stone

Coral stone pavers range between $15 and $40 per square foot not including labor. For that price, you get a durable and elegant look. The natural veins and unevenness of the stone allow for a stunning look and natural slip resistance. Coral also withstands the elements and needs little to no maintenance.

Wood

A wooden pool surround typically ranges between $3 and $15 per square foot for materials alone. This material requires regular maintenance and can rot or peel. Composite alternatives are more durable and cost between $8 and $35 per square foot.

Brick

Brick decks range between $20 and $35 per square foot installed. They may not be your best alternative around a pool because moisture exposure can cause them to grow moss. They also become hot on your feet during sunny days.

Tile

Outdoor ceramic or porcelain tiles cost between $3 and $35 per square foot for the tile alone. They tend to be slip resistant and look beautiful. But they will need extensive maintenance to avoid cracking with changing temperatures and soil levels.

Rubber

Rubber deck mats range between $9 and $20 per square foot, not including labor. They create a more comfortable, forgiving surface than the other materials above.

Pool Coping Costs

Expect to pay between $30 and $50 per linear foot to install pool coping. This is the ledge around the edge of an in-ground pool, often in stone or concrete. It's designed to complement the deck but cannot replace its function as a lounge space. It also holds and hides your automated pool cover if you have one.

Pool Coping Installation Cost Calculator

Build your budget for materials and labor around the linear feet your inground pool encompasses:

Cost to Replace Pool Coping

Expect to add between $300 and $1,000 to your project budget if your contractor has to take off existing coping. The exact cost depends on the material and size of the space.

Average Cost to Build a Pool Deck

The work to build your pool deck can range from $1,000 all the way to $12,000. A simple installation for a small patio will not be a major cost. A large project that includes hardscaping or grading your property will be much more expensive.

Pool Deck Replacement Cost

Removing your existing patio adds between $5 and $15 per square foot to your price, which raises the overall labor budget to $2,500 to $25,000. That includes the actual removal, disposal of old materials, and prep work for the new space.

Cost Factors

Most contractors individually quote pool deck labor because every property is different. How much you pay might depend on:

• The patio materials you choose

• The size of your pool

• The size of your deck

• The current state of your property

• Access to your property

• The slope of the area around the pool

• Any hardscaping around the patio

• And more.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Building a pool deck requires expertise in the materials you use, as well as hardscaping. One misstep could mean damaging your property or lead to problems like cracks in the concrete.

If you want to take it on as a DIY project, you need extensive planning and some existing knowledge of deck building. Otherwise, it pays to work with a local pool deck contractor who knows exactly what to do to build a safe, beautiful, and usable patio for your summer lounging.

FAQs

What is the best material for building a deck around a pool?

The best decking material depends on your needs. For an above-ground pool, composite tends to be ideal. In-ground alternatives may work best with concrete, stone, or wood. Make your choice based on your budget, aesthetic preference, and maintenance needs.

Which material requires the least maintenance?

Concrete, stone, and composite are all low-maintenance materials that work well on any patio. But they may also become slippery if not installed correctly or without the right coating.

How do I calculate what pool deck size I need?

An easy calculation for your patio size is to add 8 feet to the length and width of your pool. That gives you about 4 feet of space on each side, enough for lounge chairs, tables, and more. Calculate total square footage in three steps:

1. Total pool area

   1. Ex: for a 10x20 product, 10 times 20 = 200 square feet.

2. Total pool area plus deck (including 4 feet to each side)

   1. Ex: for a 10x20 product, 18 times 28 = 504 square feet.

3. Total area minus pool square footage

   1. 504 - 200 = 304 square feet.

This is your patio's surface area.

What is coping?

Coping is the surround on the edge of your pool that gives it a finished look. It's usually around 12 inches wide, and made of the same material as your pool deck. It also adds functionality as a seating area on the edge as well as a natural space to hide your pool cover. It's not a replacement for your patio but can add to its look and function.

How much does pool deck resurfacing cost?

The cost to resurface concrete like your surround is between $2,250 to $3,750. It adds a coating that makes your patio more water-resistant. Some coatings also add slip and heat resistance to make the surface more comfortable.

Should I resurface my pool and deck at the same time?

You don't have to resurface your pool and deck at the same time. Both need it most when the wear and tear openly show. That will not always happen at the same time.

If both are ready for a facelift, hire a contractor to take care of both can help you save up to 10% of the resurfacing price. Combining both projects into one can save on labor and materials costs.