Mastering How to Choose the Perfect Natural Stone Coping

What makes the external decor make a statement in terms of style?

A lovely, long-lasting water feature. Yes, nothing makes an outdoor space more extravagant than the addition of a swimming pool.

However, have you overheard your gardener or pool provider discussing “coping” while building a pool? Are you unsure about what coping is or why it matters?

The edging that surrounds the perimeter of a swimming pool is called pool coping, and it serves to complement the deck and pool construction while also giving the frame a polished, smooth appearance. It discreetly enhances a pool deck’s safety features while also giving it an appealing, polished appearance. There are various building suppliers like pavers, concrete or natural stone that are used to make pool coping pavers. They are decorative as well as utilitarian.

Out of the lot, we recommend using natural stones. From dropedge to bullnose pool coping, there are many options in the market.

Let’s check out which one would be a better choice for you!

• DropEdge Pool Coping Pavers
Pavers with a dropedge are a common option for pool coping. Named so because the front drop edge of the stone or paver appears far thicker than its true thickness.

A standard drop face paver could have a front drop edge of 70mm, yet the stone is only 30 mm in size. A porcelain drop face may actually be made from two pieces linked together with a 45° mitre; most drop face pavers are made of one piece. But when it comes to natural stones, they are a single piece of stone carved in that way. Because they are a high-end product, they provide the appearance that every pool surrounds is the same thickness as the drop edge.

Unlike counterparts like Bullnose pool coping (which we will know more about in the next subhead), dropedge pavers offer a more aesthetically pleasing surface, making them a popular option for pools. They are significantly more expensive than conventional square- or even round-edged pavers due to the way they are manufactured.

• Bullnose Pool Coping Pavers
The edge of a bullnose coping is entirely rounded. Compared to a square edge, it gives a pool a slightly softer appearance. When the owner wishes for a more conventional, classic style, they typically utilise it for gardens and pools.

Since bullnose pool coping pavers and tiles are rounded, they are excellent when it comes to swimmer safety. The rounded edges significantly lower the risk of injury. Bullnose pool coping tiles and pavers provide the pool with a gentle appearance and a secure surface on which to rest. You can choose them in light colours to complement the pavers used for pool surrounds or decks.

• Square Edge Coping Pavers
Square edge coping is pretty common because it’s one of the most affordable options for many pool owners.

Unlike bullnose pool coping, square edge eliminates the need to alter the pavers by allowing you to utilise them just as they are. ‘Tumbled’ stone pavers are typically the finest fit for this kind of coping. To lessen the possibility of any sharp edges, these pavers’ edges have been somewhat smoothed during the tumble process.

Also Read: Travertine Bullnose or Travertine Drop Edge: Which One to Go For?

How Might One Choose a Natural Stone For The Pool’s Coping?

Whether you are choosing dropedge, square edge or bullnose pool coping pavers for your pool, knowing which material to get them in can be challenging. Here are some quick things that you must consider when choosing the pool coping material:

• Should Have Sturdiness
Look for a pool coping stone that is resistant to fading and discolouration from the environment. Natural stone options that are durable and resilient are Bluestone and Limestone. Out of all the edges, these two natural stone materials are mostly found in the bullnose pool coping style.

• Should Be Resistance to Slips
A non-slip surface on pool coping is necessary to keep people from sliding and falling. Look for a stone with some texture or roughness to help you grip it better.

• Should Feel Cool When Touched
You may still feel the coolness of some natural stones, such as Bluestone and Sandstone, even on the warmest of days. If you live somewhere warmer, this is a great addition to the pool area.

• Check For Colour and Style
Make sure the stone, be it dropedge or bullnose pool coping, you choose the one that complements the rest of the design. With the wide range of colours and patterns that materials like Travertine and Bluestone offer, you might find a natural stone alternative that appeals to your aesthetic tastes.

• Should be Easy To Maintain
Consider how frequently you’ll need to clean different types of stone. Granite and Bluestone bullnose pool coping pavers require less maintenance than other stone varieties.

At The End

Selecting the right pool coping is essential for both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Dropedge, square edge or bullnose pool coping pavers each offer unique benefits, from safety to style. Choosing natural stone, such as Bluestone or Limestone, ensures durability, slip resistance and a cool touch underfoot.

Additionally, matching the stone’s colour and style to your pool’s design enhances the overall look. For premium-grade materials and expert advice, Stone Depot is one of the best wholesalers. Their stone specialists will help you choose between dropedge, square edge or bullnose pool coping, ensuring you achieve the perfect finish for your pool.