Best Types of Coping for Fiberglass Pools

Pool coping is the material installed at the top of the pool wall that separates the shell of the pool from the surrounding areas. Not only does it enhance the aesthetics of your in-ground pool, but it also helps to prevent moisture from harming the pool.

What is the Purpose of Pool Coping?

If you are uncertain as to what exactly pool coping is and why your pool needs it, coping refers to the material used to cap the edge of the pool or the shell wall. It identifies the space where the patio of the pool meets the edge of the pool. There are many available options in terms of materials that can be used to provide the coping, such as concrete, natural stone pavers, and tile. Coping also creates a barrier between the pool itself and the surrounding dirt so water does not get behind the wall of the pool.

When you have a fiberglass swimming pool, it is important to incorporate that final finish after installation of the pool itself. There are a few options available for fiberglass pools, and each of these options has its own distinct advantages.

What are the Most Popular Coping Options for Fiberglass Pools?

The main approach in coping for fiberglass pools is to simply pour the concrete so that it is even with the top of the pool. This leaves the top of the pool shell exposed. Granted, it sure is an efficient and simple approach, but can you imagine what it might look like from a purely aesthetic point of view? Probably not so great.

As such, we want to simply provide a few coping options for fiberglass pools. No matter what type of coping you choose, it is imperative every fiberglass pool have concrete poured all the way around the outer edge of the pool. What this does is stabilize the pool and keep it in place while also giving the coping a strong foundation upon which to be laid.

Cantilevered Concrete Coping

Concrete edging can provide a stunning finish to your inground backyard fiberglass pool. Because of its beautiful appearance and its less expensive price tag, cantilevered concrete coping tends to be the most popular choice of fiberglass pool owners. Of course, this finish can be difficult to achieve and should be done by an experienced professional.

When installed, cantilevered concrete coping is poured all the way to the water at the edge of the pool and covers the top of the pool, creating an edge with a bull-nosed (rounded, convex) finish.

With a typical price tag of about $6-$10 per linear foot, it is no wonder cantilevered concrete coping stands among one of the most popular pool coping finishes for fiberglass pools.

Paver Coping

Pavers are made of concrete and come with a bull-nosed edge. They are typically manufactured by the same companies that make the pavers for patios. They can be bonded to the shell of the pool or just placed on a mortar bed.

Pavers are laid instead of poured. This allows for more control when it comes to the quality of installation and provides a more predictable look.

Bear in mind paver pool coping is considered an upgraded coping. Expect to spend between $40 and $50 per linear foot.

Travertine

Fiberglass pool owners appreciate this material for its cool-to-the-touch finish and because no “slippery when wet” signs are required. A natural material, travertine is a great way to create a beautiful border around the edge of your pool. Its dense, marble-like appearance makes for an elegant border all around the pool. This type of coping is frequently used in conjunction with travertine pavers to create a cohesive and complementary look with the adjoining patio.

With travertine coping, expect to spend about $45-$55 per linear foot.

Bluestone

The non-slip properties of bluestone make it a popular choice for pool coping. This natural, high-quality material adds a distinct layer of elegance to your fiberglass pool. Far from uniform in presentation, bluestone comes in many shades and varieties of colors, making it a unique material that blends well with other materials used in and around the pool deck area.

Bluestone coping is similar in cost to travertine pool coping.

Final Assessment

Pool coping is the connection between your patio and the pool. Therefore, it is essential to produce a final finish that is not only pleasing to the eyes but also fits within your budget and lifestyle preferences.

If you have any questions or concerns about coping options for your backyard fiberglass pool, consult your local dealer at Leisure Pools. To find your local fiberglass pool dealer, call 855-857-7527 or go to our website at at leisurepoolsusa.com. We are here to help you enjoy your “life of leisure” every day of the year.