When it comes to designing pool decks, one of the most common questions we get is, “How does flagstone compare to travertine?” People want to know which material is best for around their in-ground pool, so people often ask which is the most durable, heat-resistant, and overall best-looking.
Here at Dutchies, we love to build flagstone pool decks, but we understand when our customers have further questions. That’s why we’ve put together this post of some other common FAQs (frequently asked questions), so you have a chance to hear the answers directly from the experts! Keep reading to learn more and get the answers to your own in-ground pool deck questions.
Q: Is flagstone the most common material for pool decks?
A: The simple answer is yes; flagstone is the most typical material for pool decks. But it’s also important to note that this can vary from region to region. For example, flagstone is popular in Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas because it’s the region’s highest quality stone. Yet if you look at pool decks in a hotter, sunnier climate like Arizona, the standard material may very well be travertine or concrete.
Q: How do flagstone pool decks compare to travertine?
A: There are many pros and cons when comparing flagstone and travertine, but there’s a reason we mostly use flagstone when building pool decks here at Dutchies. For example, flagstone actually has a much longer life span because it’s far less porous than most other materials. With a lower porosity, that means water can’t penetrate the flagstone as it can with travertine, which will break down over time. Also, because we’re in a colder climate, water seeping into pours means freezing can happen in the winter, which can cause the tile to blow apart from rapid shrinking and expansion of water.
Q: What are some of the most significant advantages of flagstone over travertine?
As we mentioned above, one of the biggest advantages of flagstone is that it lasts longer than travertine and most other materials. You may be paying for more upfront, but flagstone’s durability will make up for any repair costs you likely won’t have down the road. Flagstone will also stay looking brand new for longer with all of the proper maintenance—plus, every patio or pool deck will look completely different due to the various natural stone patterns.
While this type of decking can get hot depending on the color (stick to lighter shades for pool decks), it is definitely one of the most skid and slip-resistant materials on the market.
Q: Should I repair or replace my current pool deck?
Depending on the material of your current pool deck or patio, it may be more cost-effective to replace it entirely. Our experts here at Dutchies can help you determine what’s best, but most of our jobs tend to be installing new pool decks, especially because we include them in our outdoor living space packages! Just ask us about the package for more details.
Q: What’s the best time of year for installation?
It probably won’t come as a surprise, but extreme weather is not the best for installing flagstone pool decks. If it’s too cold or too hot, the bonding and curing that happens in the mortar between the stones won’t solidify. But if the temperatures are milder—like in fall or spring—the mortar will bond much better and make for a better, stronger overall pool deck.
Q: Is flagstone still the best material compared to concrete, brick, stamped concrete, pavers, etc.?
Unlike other materials, one of the most significant selling points of flagstone pool decking is that it maintains its color and won’t fade over time. Even with chlorine from your pool washing over it regularly or the sun beating down on it in the summer, flagstone is our favorite because it will always look so timeless and beautiful!
Ready for Your Own Flagstone Pool Deck?
Even if it’s not the right time of year for installing a deck, you can talk to us at any time. We can make all of the plans for your new pool deck over the colder months and be ready to go by spring! Our experts here at Dutchies are always pleased to work on a new project, and we’ll happily answer any questions you may have about flagstone or other natural stone products.