If you’re in the middle of a pool design, you may be asking, “What is pool coping?” The term will come up soon in your design process, if it hasn’t already. When it does, we’d like you to know exactly what your designer is talking about and what your options are!

What is pool coping exactly?

Swimming pool coping is essential to the structure of the pool and adds a touch of class and beauty to the pool itself, but what is coping? Coping is the material that is used to cap the pool shell; it is always placed directly over the wall of the pool. When it comes to coping, there are many options that you have to consider. While a common type of coping is a basic plastic form, this is not always the best style option and can cheapen the look of your pool. Here is a quick rundown of some of the most popular coping styles right now.

Cantilever

A style that has made somewhat of a comeback, the cantilever edge is simply a poured concrete that forms a square edge all around the pool. This is a very common coping in commercial pools found in recreation centers and hotels.

Brick

Brick is a very popular building material and it has become an even more popular pool coping option. Just like a brick home, brick coping offer many different colors and shapes. This type of coping can be placed around the edges of your pool and worked seamlessly into the concrete to form a smooth surface.

Natural Stone

Natural stone has become the go to option for many modern pool lovers. This material offers earthy colors and really has an ability to blend your pool paradise with your surroundings. Natural stone coping can be made from limestone, granite, or even fieldstone, so the stone that you use is up to you.

Coping is essential to any pool. It adds strength to the structure and it helps bring the total look of the pool together. Be sure to spend some time considering the type of coping that would best fit your home and the vision that you have for your backyard pool escape.