Best Decking Options for Poolside Areas

In Perth, isn't there something about having a pool that makes it feel like summer? However, if you choose your poolside decking incorrectly, it could lead to a severe problem. Literally.

Fixing warps, burns, and slips within a season or two can transform a deck into one that appears damaged.

I’ve been building decks around pools for years, and I’ve seen it all. I have seen the good, the bad, and the truly dangerous.

So let’s discuss here what really works when you’re thinking about the best pool deck material for our climate!

Why Your Pool Deck Choice Actually Matters

Look, I get it. When you’re designing a pool, the decking may be an afterthought. You’re excited about the pool itself, maybe some landscaping, possibly a fantastic outdoor kitchen. However, I assure you that you should not compromise on the quality of your deck.

Your deck by the pool needs to work hard. It is also constantly exposed to water, chlorine splashes, harsh UV radiation, and, in the case of Perth, extreme heat. And then there’s the whole safety thing, which we’re about to look at in glorious detail.

Are you using the wrong material? You’ll struggle with maintenance headaches and possible injuries and likely have to renovate waaay sooner than you’d like to think about.

The Big Three: What Your Pool Deck Actually Needs To Do

But before we go there, let’s discuss what actually matters. Don’t even think of skipping these three things; if you do, you’ll be sorry.

How Effectively Do They Counter a Slip? (Nobody Wants a Trip to Emergency)

This one's non-negotiable. Children jostling with wet feet, adults holding drinks—your deck must be nonslip. But comfortable pool deck surfaces aren’t all about texture. Some materials begin as excellent but, once exposed to algae or chemicals, become slippery.

Engineers rated the AS 4586—Wet Pendulum Classification P standard for use on pool surrounds, ensuring safety when the surface is wet. That is what you are aiming for.

You want a surface that provides traction when wet but is not so rough that it causes injury to feet.

Resistant to Heat (Perth has Killer Summers)

On a day with 40 degrees, would you want to walk on pavers? The surface temperature in Perth is extremely high. Tough grey pavers were hot in the summer, according to Perth studies that measured urban landscape features.

Some materials have a surface temperature of over 60°C in full sunlight. That’s hot enough to scorch bare feet in seconds.

Extreme heat also leads to expansion, warping and deterioration at a faster rate. Your pool decking at your Perth home needs to take the summer heat and not turn into a hotplate.

Chlorine and Chemical Resistance

Pool water is essentially a chemical bath. Your deck will take some splashes, drips and maybe the occasional soaking from a cannonball.

The best pool deckings in Australia are those that respond to the conditions they’re under with a little maintenance now and then but… Nothing should be getting in your face every day!

Timber Decking: The Classic Choice (When Done Right)

Timber, after all, is the OG deck-building material, for good reason. It looks excellent, feels natural underfoot, and when properly selected and maintained, can be quite effective around swimming pools.

Timber decks have a classic look, which many homeowners still favour today.

The Good Stuff

When wood is good around pools, it’s great.

Here's what you get:

Wood doesn’t get nearly as hot as stone or concrete when it’s in direct sunlight—you can actually walk on it with your bare feet.
Naturally non-skid, with a suitable finish and appearance.
It has that classic, natural look, and it’s just impossible to beat aesthetically.
It is a beautiful combination with landscaping and warm space.
Adds real value to your house by making it a place to entertain.

That tactile warmth and feel is difficult to reproduce in any other way.

What You Need To Know

All wood is not created equal when it comes to deck material for pool decking. Species matter. A lot. You want something that can withstand moisture without rotting or warping.

High-quality wood types, such as Accoya, are made to be resistant to water using a non-toxic, ecologically friendly treatment process that ensures their durability.

Treatment and sealing will be part of your life with timber. Some require annual maintenance, while you may be able to wait longer with others. But you can’t simply set it and forget it; that’s a surefire way to disaster.

The grain and texture matter as well, in terms of slip resistance, and so does correct installation with spacing for drainage.

Composite Decking: The Modern Alternative

And this is where things get intriguing. Composite decking has significantly evolved since its initial introduction, altering various aspects of how we enjoy the outdoors.

Contemporary composite materials, especially when of premium quality, have basically solved many, if not all, the issues that timber demands while still retaining a lot of its qualities.

We use a lot of Trex composite decking, and it’s notable specifically because it’s actually excellent.

Why Composite is the Right Choice for Pool Surfaces

Here are the reasons why it is particularly well-suited for use around pools:

Durable: Composite deck boards resist moisture and warping—never splinter or decay as time goes on.
Chlorine resistant: So it lasts longer without the risk of snags and allies boosting your performance.
Heat dissipation: Both Trex and a quality brand like it will remain much cooler in the sun than cement or other lines.
Slip resistance: Texture gives a sturdy grip even when wet and doesn’t wear down like treatments.
Climate proof in Perth: Engineered for the harsh Australian UV and climate conditions

This is impressive, especially since these materials are also exposed to water and chemicals near a pool. They’re what cause the difference between a deck that stands up year after year and one that turns into a maintenance nightmare.

The Maintenance Angle

This is the place where composite comes into its own. You’re basically looking at a regular clean, and that’s about it. No sanding, no sealing, no treatments.

For busy families who would rather be in the pool than taking care of its surroundings, that’s worth quite a bit. The colour will not fade, even after several years, particularly with Perth’s brutal UV exposure.

Modern Colours and Styles

The aesthetic argument against composite materials is no longer very convincing. The options now include colours and textures that actually look attractive.

Top-end brands like Millboard and Trex offer a wide range of options that cater to all styles of decking.

Making the Choice for Your Space

So, which pool deck is the right one for you in Australia? It depends on what you value most.

If you really like real wood and don’t mind the work involved, good-quality timber decking can also look fantastic. I also love the natural warmth of it.

When it comes to avoiding routine maintenance and ensuring long-term durability, composite materials are unmatched. The initial investment might be pricier, but you’re not devoting weekends to treating and sealing.

In particular, we usually advise most clients to use composites for pool decks. This combination of chemical resistance, heat management, and slip resistance with minimal maintenance is highly beneficial.

But timber isn't ruled out; it's all about what will work best for your needs.

Getting the Installation Right

But here's something I don't think is discussed enough: even if you have the best material, if it's installed incorrectly, it will completely fail. The correct framing of drainage and spacing is crucial.

No matter what you're dealing with, poor drainage around a pool is a nightmare. Installation issues that result in deck problems include sitting water, moisture beneath the deck, and inadequate airflow.

Their skilled installation crews that install poolside decking correctly are a major factor. Building a basic deck outside and away from moisture is not the same as that. Yes, there are a few particular factors at play.

What About Cost?

Let's address the most pressing issue. Indeed, investing in high-quality materials and ensuring proper installation will incur significant costs. But here's the thing: scrimping on your pool deck can cost you more in the long run.

Using cheap materials can lead to needing replacements in a few years, spending countless afternoons on maintenance, and risking injuries from hazardous surfaces. We’re not referring to areas where choosing budget options is appropriate for minor details.

Consider the cost per year of use, not just the purchase price. A correctly installed composite deck may cost more at first but will need almost nothing in 20+ years.

While a more affordable cut of timber might seem like the most cost-efficient option initially, when the wood has to be regularly maintained and treated -- and then replaced sooner rather than later – it’s not so great.

So what's the answer?

The best pool deck material depends on your goals and lifestyle, as well as the design of your outdoor space and home.

Good-quality timber and up-to-date composite are also suitable around a swimming pool. For the majority of Perth residents, its safety and durability combined with minimal upkeep give you a good setup for your poolside. The technology is far along enough that the performance gains outweigh any visual compromises.

But if you are drawn to real timber and ready for the maintenance, that’s an option worth considering as well.

Whatever you decide, work with experienced installers. The contrast between a great pool deck and a not-so-great one can be as simple as installation, rather than material.

You’ll want to create a deck that you actually enjoy spending time at the pool with for years to come.

Ready to make over your poolside space? Contact us today to discuss your preferences and choose the best decking for your Perth home!

Of Note DesignApril 4, 2024