Deck resurfacing

As with coping, stone decks will wear over time. Color change is common, as is minor cracking. During seasonal change, decks will expand and contract causing stones to become loose and even settle in some instances. The joints will often change color as well. These are all signs that your deck may need resurfacing.

Bluestone

Bluestone is the most common stone used around pools in this area. It has a blue/grey color and can be purchased at a moderate price. Bluestone coping should be kept to a consistent blue/grey color. Bluestone decking material (flagging) can range in color from dark blues to light greys. Bluestone does have its downfalls in that it tends to be a little hotter on your feet, and over time, the colors my change.

Granite

Granite is a denser stone than bluestone. This means granite is stronger and will last longer than bluestone. It has a slightly rougher feel, but it does not get quite as hot to the touch. It usually comes in colors such as tan and beige, but there is some granite that may have red or other colors present. Usually, granite stones are a bit more expensive than bluestone.

Cool Deck

There are many different brand names for this form of decking. Essentially it is a 4" thick steel-reinforced concrete slab with a special finished coating. This coating remains cool in high temperatures and has a slip-resistant finish. This decking comes in many different colors and patterns and it is the most cost-effective. We still strongly recommend using a natural stone for the coping with this form of "poured" decking.

Wet-Set Deck

A wet-set deck consists of natural stones set upon a steel-reinforced concrete slab. This is the more expensive approach because it combines the deck into one structure. When movement occurs in the winter, the deck will expand and contract as one. Though this is considered a much more quality method, maintenance on a wet-set deck can sometimes be costly.

Dry-Set Deck

A dry-set deck consists of natural stones set upon a 4" thick gravel base in a sand and cement mix. If the ground beneath the gravel is not prepared properly, settling may occur down the line. One of the benefits of a dry-set deck is maintenance is easier and less costly. The settled stones can easily be lifted, and the base can be adjusted with additional sand, cement, and sometimes even gravel.