Your Guide to Pool Deck Surfaces & The Best Pool Deck Materials in the Capital Region

When it comes to pool design and installation in the Capital Region, what you choose matters.

Whether you're dreaming of a pool patio in your Saratoga Springs home or a private, inground pool in your Clifton Park getaway, the types of pool decking you decide on make a huge difference in the look and the longevity of your pool deck.

Not sure where to start when it comes to picking the perfect pool deck surfaces? That's where we come in. Dive into (pun intended) our guide here on pool patio materials, pool deck options, and pool patio tips so you can choose the right pool path forward.

Jump To:

• What is Pool Decking?
• The Most Popular Materials for Pool Decks
  
  
  • Natural Stone
  • Stamped Concrete
  • Pavers
  • Composite Decking
  • Tile / Porcelain
• What to Consider When Picking Your Pool Deck Surface
• Working with a Pool Deck Pro

What is Pool Decking & Why Does the Material Matter?

Pool decking is exactly as it sounds – it's the surface that surrounds your pool. Sometimes referred to as the inground pool patio, this is the spot where you’ll lounge, entertain, and walk barefoot in the summer sun.

For many, the choice for pool decking revolves solely around how it looks with the pool, the house, and the general design of their property. But choosing the right decking around your pool is about so much more than aesthetics.

The right surface needs to consider:

• Maintenance (how much time and effort it takes to keep it beautiful)
• Comfort (heat resistance on bare feet)
• Safety (slip resistance)
• Durability (how long it lasts in freeze-thaw cycles)
• Cost (short versus long-term investments)
• Climate (regional factors depending on where you live)
• Looks (how it elevates your property)

That’s why homeowners throughout the Capital Region – from Albany to Saratoga Springs – need to carefully consider their pool patio materials. Not sure what your pool deck options are? We've got you covered – keep reading!

The Most Popular Materials for Pool Decks

We'll level with you – there's no single best pool deck material out there. The perfect-fit decking around your pool will have to do with your specific landscape, your needs, your budget, your goals, and the pool aesthetics you're chasing.

That said, we do have several pool decking options we think you should consider. Take a peek at a few of our favorite pool decking options here.

Natural Stone

If you’re looking for a timeless, upscale finish for your inground pool patio, natural stone is hard to beat. From bluestone to travertine, stone offers unmatched character and elegance.

The Pros:

• Luxurious, high-end aesthetic
• Extremely durable and long-lasting
• Variety of textures, shapes, and colors for a custom look
• Naturally slip-resistant when textured

The Cons:

• Higher upfront cost than other options
• Some stones (like darker colors) can get hot in direct sunlight
• Professional installation is a must (only a con if you're DIY-decided)

Ideal Use Case:

Perfect for homeowners in Saratoga Springs or Albany who want to invest in a resort-style backyard retreat that feels timeless and built to last.

Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete is one of the most versatile pool deck surfaces, offering the ability to mimic the look of stone, brick, or wood without the higher price tag.

The Pros:

• Wide range of customizable patterns, textures, and colors
• Seamless appearance with fewer joints
• More affordable than natural stone or pavers

The Cons:

• Prone to cracking in freeze-thaw climates without proper installation
• Requires resealing every few years to maintain appearance
• Can become slippery if not textured or treated correctly

Ideal Use Case:

Great for those looking for a stylish, budget-friendly pool patio material that offers design flexibility without sacrificing aesthetics.

Pavers

Pavers are a classic option for decking around pools, combining durability with design versatility. As an engineered product, pavers don’t carry the same price tag (or aesthetic) as natural stone products. They’re installed piece by piece, which makes repairs relatively simple and cost-effective.

The Pros:

• Highly customizable in layout, color, shape, and size
• Naturally slip-resistant
• Easy to repair, replace individual pavers instead of the whole deck
• Performs well in freeze-thaw climates

The Cons:

• Installation can be more labor-intensive
• Weeds or moss may grow between pavers without proper sealing
• Uneven settling over time if not installed on a solid base

Ideal Use Case:

Best for homeowners who want a durable, attractive, and customizable inground pool decking solution that stands up to Capital Region weather while remaining easy to maintain.

Composite Decking

Composite decking is a modern option that’s grown popular thanks to its low-maintenance appeal. Made from a mix of recycled wood fibers and plastics, it’s built to withstand the elements with minimal upkeep.

The Pros:

• Low maintenance - no staining, sealing, or resurfacing required
• Resistant to rot, splintering, and insects
• Consistent color and texture
• Eco-friendly options available

The Cons:

• Higher upfront cost than concrete or pavers
• Can become warm under direct sun
• Limited in design compared to stone or pavers

Ideal Use Case:

A great fit for homeowners who want sleek, low-maintenance decking around their pool - blending well with modern homes or busy families who don’t want the hassle of upkeep.

Tile / Porcelain

Tile, especially outdoor-grade porcelain, can create an elegant, high-end look that blurs the line between indoor and outdoor living. When installed properly, it’s both beautiful and functional.

The Pros:

• Luxurious, polished aesthetic
• Wide range of colors, styles, and finishes
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Can mimic the look of natural stone or wood

The Cons:

• Can be slippery if not textured or rated for outdoor use
• Requires expert installation, especially in freeze-thaw climates like the Capital Region
• Less common than other materials for pool decks in this area

Ideal Use Case:

For homeowners aiming for a sleek, modern pool patio design with a high-end feel, this option works excellently - provided installation is done by an experienced professional familiar with proper install techniques and regional climate challenges.

What to Consider When Picking Your Pool Deck Surfaces

You're now a little more familiar with some of the pool deck surface options out there. But now what? When it comes to choosing the right pool patio material, every option has its benefits and trade-offs.

If you're not sure which material makes the most sense for your Capital Region pool or landscape, we've got a quick checklist of considerations you (and your pool decking professional) can run through. These questions should help you choose the right deck for you.

What Kind of Maintenance is Best for My Pool Patio?

When it comes to maintenance, the question is two-fold:

1. What does maintenance mean from a cost perspective?
2. What does maintenance mean from a DIY or professional perspective?  

Sometimes, adding in low-maintenance options means paying more upfront – but it can save you in the long run. The inverse is true, too. Sometimes, a lower-cost option might require more maintenance, cost, and hands-on work to keep it looking nice.

Think about maintenance holistically. Do you want a surface that will require extra attention or resealing, like stamped concrete? Or do you prioritize a more low-maintenance option, like composite decking?

Why Working with a Pool Deck Pro is a Must

At the end of the day, your inground pool patio isn’t just about picking a material; it’s about choosing a surface that’s installed correctly, looks stunning, and lasts for decades. In a region like the Capital District, professional expertise is essential to make sure your pool deck surfaces stand up to the freeze-thaw cycles, drainage needs, and design goals unique to your property.

That’s where Gallivan comes in. With decades of experience in pool design and installation in Saratoga Springs, Albany, Clifton Park, and across the Capital Region, our team knows what it takes to bring beauty, safety, and durability together.

From helping you select the best pool deck material to ensuring every stone, paver, or slab is perfectly placed, we’re here to transform your backyard into a retreat you’ll love for years to come.

Contact Gallivan today to request your consultation, and let’s create an outdoor space that feels like a personal resort, right at home.

Image Sources: composite pool deck