Acrylic Vs. Pavers Around a Pool

Acrylic

• Acrylic is a synthetic texture material used to create decking around swimming pools. It is made of Portland cements, or finely powdered stone aggregate materials and liquid resins. The mixture is blended together with water and poured onto a concrete, grass or soil substrate. The acrylic resin binds the mixture together, so that it solidifies and forms a solid decking surface around the swimming pool. Owners also have the option to add pigments to color the acrylic. The resulting surface has a slightly raised texture and is tough and durable.

Pavers

• Pavers are blocks made of Portland cement and crushed stones. Pigment is added to the mixture to color the pavers. Pavers come in all types of shapes; however, brick-size rectangles are the most common. In fact, many people opt for pavers, because they closely resemble bricks. Pavers are laid with sand instead of mortar, which makes them easier than brick to install.

Similarities

• Acrylic decking and pavers are both synthetic products made in factories. They can last for years and, for the most part, are relatively easy to maintain. They provide a sturdy surface for pool areas and blend well with tile work surrounding the border of the swimming pool. Owners can use sealers to seal and protect acrylic and paver surfaces from peeling and chipping. Two coats of an acrylic sealer are typically applied to the surface. The first coat of the sealer reinvigorates the pigment color, and the second coat provides the protective layer. Sealers eliminate the need to paint acrylic surfaces and the need to retain paver surfaces.

Differences

• Pavers are closer to brick in appearance and properties. The paver blocks are laid in a pattern, and sand is swept in between the pavers to lock and bond them together, so they don’t move. Acrylic surfaces, on the other hand, have properties more similar to concrete. The acrylic material is poured onto the pool deck surface area, similar to how concrete is poured. Those who want a more traditional swimming pool deck surface often choose pavers. Acrylic is often used by those that want a more contemporary look around their pool.