Pool Deck Pavers vs Travertine
Choosing the best material for your pool deck can be challenging, especially if you are new to paving. Most homeowners struggle to get a pool deck paving material that lasts longer and is slip-resistant.
Luckily, I have been in the paving industry serving the San Diego area for over five years and know how each works. I want to share my knowledge of the differences, similarities, pros, and cons of pool deck pavers vs travertine. This way, you will choose one that suits your area and preference.
Pool Deck Pavers vs Travertine Overview
Pavers and travertine are great materials used on pathways, walkways, driveways, pool decks, and patios. They are easy to install and come in different shapes, sizes, and colors, making it easy for homeowners to choose one that suits their preferences.
However, if you are a new homeowner and want to build a pool deck, you must do due diligence before purchasing any paving material. The pool deck is a delicate area that requires proper attention due to its slippery nature.
Therefore, you need a professional from a reputable company to do the job for you. Aviara Pavers uses paving materials designated for specific areas, such as pool decks. We also adhere to ICPI guidelines for proper installation, including patios, entry ways, and driveways.
Pool Deck Pavers
These are regular types of pavers specifically used to construct an outdoor poolside area. They come from concrete, bricks, and stones, which provide a solid compact, making them last longer. The materials used to make them can also withstand the effects of chlorinated or saltwater pools.
Poolside pavers also come in various shapes, colors, and patterns, making it easy to choose one that suits your preference. They are also slip-resistant, making them ideal to be used around the pool.
When you settle on concrete pavers, ensure they are correctly sealed. This is because concrete pavers are always porous. Their pigments are known to look dull with time due to exposure to UV lights and excessive water damage.
Pros
They are made of strong materials, such as concrete, bricks, and stones. This ensures durability.
They are easy to maintain. All you need to do is clean it regularly and apply a sealer (if using a concrete paver) to protect them from UV lights that can cause fading.
Cons
They are made of concrete materials that can fade if not sealed.
They are prone to chipping and breaking if not well-maintained.
Travertine
Travertine is another excellent paving material that comes from limestone deposits. It is a popular building material for poolside areas due to its lightweight and strength. Travertine also has thermal and acoustic insulating properties that protect it from UV lights.
Travertines come in different textures, shapes, and sizes. They also come in different colors, making creating a unique style for any color palate easy. Some popular colors include silver, ivory, tan, white, and cream.
Pros
Travertine has a non-slip surface, making it suitable for use around poolside and other wet areas.
They are durable and can last a lifetime when maintained properly. This durability is due to its thickness, making it easy to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Travertine is cooler than pavers and its porosity makes it able to resist most of the heat. This is because its porosity acts as an air conduit that reflects the UV lights and transfers the cool temperatures under travertine.
Cons
The commercial-grade type of travertine is prone to cracking if mishandled. This can lead to extra costs.
They are expensive compared to other paving materials, such as bricks, concrete, and stones.
Comparing Pool Deck Pavers and Travertine
While pool deck pavers and travertine pavers share durability and aesthetics, they diverge in versatility and elegance. Pool deck pavers offer flexibility, while travertine pavers exude timeless charm, catering to distinct design preferences.
As we delve deeper into their unique characteristics and benefits, you'll gain valuable insights to help you decide which option aligns best with your pool deck vision.
Similarities
Both come in different colors, shapes, and sizes, allowing users to choose one they like.
Both are designed to offer slip-resistant surfaces to ensure safety around the poolside areas.
Both can be installed in different patterns to enhance aesthetics.
Both can be replaced easily if one cracks or breaks.
Differences
Pavers are made from bricks, stones, and concrete, while travertine comes from natural limestone deposits.
Pavers can absorb and retain more light, unlike travertine, which can reflect UV light.
Travertine has a natural slip-resistance surface with square edges, while pavers must be customized to have a rough surface.
Concrete pavers are relatively cheap compared to travertine.
Major Distinguishing Factor
The primary distinguishing factor between the two is that travertine has a natural, non-slip texture that ensures safety for the users. Concrete pavers, on the other hand, must be customized to have these features.
When to Use Pool Deck Pavers
The best time to use these pavers is when you want a material that withstands the effects of chlorinated or saltwater pools. Most of these pavers are designed to ensure they resist corrosion brought about by salty waters.
When to Use Travertine
The best time to use travertine is when you want a natural paving material that reflects light naturally without applying a sealant. Travertine has thermal and acoustic insulating properties that protect it from UV lights. This helps curb fading, which could lead to costly repairs.
Which Pool Deck Paving Material Is Better?
The better option is pavers because they can be found easily. Pavers are man-made, and the materials used to make them are readily available, making them easy to find in the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Special About Travertine?
The remarkable thing is that an unpolished travertine has a natural non-slip texture. This feature makes travertine an ideal paving material for pools, bathrooms, and other wet areas. It is also tough and durable, reducing unnecessary repair costs.
Is Travertine Cheaper Than Pavers?
No, travertine is not cheaper than pavers. Instead, they are more expensive compared to pavers because they are rare. Travertine is a natural stone that must be mined, an activity that increases its price.
Do Travertine Pavers Crack Easily?
Travertine pavers do not crack easily since they are the most durable items in your backyard. They only crack when they are not properly maintained. The best way to ensure travertine lasts longer is to install it properly and replace cracked or broken ones.
Conclusion
Pool decks and travertine pavers are excellent materials you can use to ensure your poolside and the entire backyard look beautiful. However, before settling on one, you need to understand the pros and cons of each to make an informed decision. This way, you will install pavers that last longer.