Precast Concrete Pool Coping: 6 Great Benefits!

Is Precast Concrete Pool Coping Good?

Precast concrete pool coping is a pretty good choice as it offers excellent value for money. In addition it has the advantages of high durability, ease of installation and low maintenance needs.

Pool coping may not get much attention but it is a very important part of your pool and deck. You will need to make a decision on the material and type of pool coping whenever you install a new pool and deck or even if you are upgrading the pool area.

Precast concrete pool coping is a great choice, especially for families with young kids, as it is slip-resistant, even when wet.

If you are looking at upgrading your old pool and deck, precast concrete pool coping can save you a lot of installation time too! As the name suggests, the concrete coping has already been cast, cured and finished. Installation is a piece of cake!

However, before you make the decision it is worth reading this article so that you can be completely sure that precast concrete pool coping is the perfect choice for you and your pool. 

Factors such as budget, aesthetic preferences, usage pattern and climatic conditions vary from person to person and pool to pool. Based on your specific needs, you may want to consider other materials too.

What Is Precast Concrete Pool Coping?

Coping, as you know, is a crucial component of a pool. It creates a smooth and level transition from the pool to the deck or patio. Many types of materials, such as natural stone, brick or concrete can be used to make the pool coping. 

Concrete coping could be cast in place, but it could also be precast. Precast concrete pool coping is cast in blocks, finished and cured in a factory. Block shape, finishing and quality can be better controlled as precise molds and the right mix of concrete is used.

The precast concrete pool coping blocks are designed to mesh with each other, much like lego blocks. The precast coping can be delivered to the job site and installed on top of the pool wall.

The installation time becomes very short because of the modular design. You can have a beautifully finished pool area in maybe just a couple of days.

Moreover, there are a variety of coping profiles, such as, straight edge, bullnose, etc.to choose from. So, precast concrete pool coping can enhance the visual appeal of your pool area in the exact way you want.

Advantages of Precast Concrete Pool Coping

Precast concrete pool coping comes with numerous advantages. Some of the important ones are:

1. Durable and Long-lasting: 

Precast concrete pool coping is extremely durable and can withstand a wide range of weather conditions, including harsh sunlight, heavy rain, and freezing temperatures. It is also highly resistant to damage from pool chemicals and water, making it an ideal choice for long-term use.

Usually precast concrete performs better than cast in place concrete as it is cast and cured in the controlled conditions of a factory. The manufacturer can also ensure that only the best quality of cement and other additives are used in the production process.

2. Ease of Installation:

The modular design of the precast concrete pool coping blocks makes their installation a lot simpler than other materials. The coping blocks are already cured, so you can save the 4 weeks of concrete curing time. 

This is fantastic if you decide to upgrade your pool in or just before the pool season. Who wants to miss 4 weeks of swimming?

3. Low Maintenance: 

Precast concrete pool coping requires minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and the occasional sealing is all you need to do to ensure the coping’s longevity and appearance.

4. Versatile Design Options: 

Precast concrete pool coping comes in a wide range of styles, shapes and colors. You can always find a design that complements your pool, deck and surrounding landscape.

By the way, you can also purchase other matching precast concrete landscaping applications, such as garden paths, retaining walls, and outdoor fireplaces.

5. Slip-resistant Surface: 

Precast concrete pool coping usually provides a slip-resistant surface. Of course there are several finish options to choose from.

For a family with young children, a somewhat rough texture may be better as it will be more slip-resistant. This will help prevent slips, falls, and injuries and make it a safer option.

6. Value for Money: 

Precast concrete pool coping is an affordable option, especially when compared to natural stone or other premium materials. Its durability and low maintenance needs also make it great value for money in the long run.

All these advantages make precast concrete pool coping a really good choice!

Disadvantages of Precast Concrete Pool Coping

While precast concrete pool coping is a great choice because of the above advantages, you must be aware that it has a few disadvantages too!

Below are some of those:

Prone to Cracking: 

Concrete always cracks. It is intrinsic to the process of concrete curing. For the most part, and especially in precast concrete, these are shrinkage cracks and purely cosmetic in nature. They do not affect the strength or durability of concrete.

However, concrete surfaces must always be sealed to ensure that water, especially pool water that has chemicals, does not penetrate. This will ensure that cracks do not grow and the concrete is long lasting.

Limited Customization: 

Though precast concrete pool coping comes in a range of styles and colors, the customization options will ultimately be limited to availability in your area. If you are looking for a highly customized design or unique texture, precast concrete may not be the best option. You are better off with cas in place pool coping.

Requires Professional Installation: 

If you are a skilled and experienced handyman you could install the precast concrete pool coping yourself.  However, for the majority of pool owners, using professional services is highly recommended.

This will add to the overall cost of the project but then improper installation can lead to even costlier repair issues. 

Concrete gets Stained Easily: 

Concrete is a porous material. Unless sealed properly, it will readily absorb liquid spills and accumulate stains over a period of time. 

Some pool chemicals are corrosive or have oxidizing properties. If they come into contact with the concrete, they may leave permanent stains or discolor the concrete. Ensuring the concrete coping is adequately sealed is your only defense.

Can be Uncomfortable: 

Concrete is a hard and uncomfortable surface to sit or lay on for extended periods. It can also get unbearably hot under the sun. 

Bottom Line

Precast concrete pool coping is an option certainly worth considering. In my opinion the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Ultimately it is your decision!

Thank you very much for reading the post. I do hope you found it informative and helpful.