How to Choose the Right Coping & Tile for Your Pool
When you’re building a pool, one of the most important design elements to think about is the coping and tile. These finishing touches not only impact how your pool looks, but also how it feels and functions. Whether you want something modern and sleek or natural and organic, the right choices can make your pool feel like a true backyard oasis.
What Is Pool Coping?
Coping is the material that caps the edge of the pool shell. It sits right on top of the bond beam and creates a clean border between the pool and the surrounding deck. More than just a finishing detail, coping helps protect the pool structure and provides a smooth, safe edge to sit on or grip.
Coping can be straight or curved (which we call “radius coping”). If your pool design includes soft, rounded shapes, the coping will follow those same curves.
Popular Pool Shapes
For residential pools, the most popular shape right now is the classic rectangle, usually around 18×36 feet or 20×40 feet. We also build freeform pools—sometimes called “bean-shaped” pools—which have natural curves and a more organic feel.
Types of In-Ground Pools
There are three main types of in-ground pools:
- Vinyl liner
- Fiberglass
- Gunite (concrete)
We specialize in gunite pools because they allow for full customization. You can design exactly what you want, from shape to depth to finishes. Vinyl and fiberglass options are more limited. Vinyl liner pools are budget-friendly but standard. Fiberglass pools come pre-molded in specific shapes and are usually only available in a few colors (mostly shades of blue).
Gunite pools, on the other hand, offer endless flexibility. That includes your choice of tile, coping, depth layout, and even interior finishes like plaster colors.
Sport Pools vs. Traditional Deep Ends
There are two common depth layouts for pools:
- Traditional: One side starts shallow (around 3 feet) and gradually slopes down to a deep end (usually around 5 feet).
- Sport Pool: Both ends are shallow (3 feet), and the middle is slightly deeper (around 5 feet). This setup is great for games and socializing.
Why Gunite Pools Stand Out
Gunite pools offer a few unique advantages:
- Custom shapes and features
- More design freedom
- Durable construction
- A natural, organic look
- Better finish options
With gunite, you can choose from a wide range of plaster colors and textures. It doesn’t feel like a plastic tub in the ground—it feels like a part of your landscape. That aesthetic appeal is what draws many homeowners toward gunite.
Gunite pools are also less likely to float or shift over time compared to fiberglass or vinyl options, as long as they’re properly installed.
Choosing a Pool Contractor
Choosing the right contractor makes all the difference. Here are some key things to look for:
- Experience with in-ground pool construction (especially gunite)
- Knowledge of terrain and elevation issues
- A track record of customizing pools to client needs
Every backyard is different. A good contractor will know how to adjust for slope, soil, and layout. Even if you and your neighbor both install a 20×40 pool, the builds might look very different depending on the ground.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One issue we’ve seen is the use of fiberglass rebar instead of steel rebar in some areas. Steel rebar is stronger and more reliable as part of a concrete structure. Some cities have moved away from allowing fiberglass rebar for this reason.
What Drives the Cost of a Pool?
The most expensive parts of a pool build are usually:
- The gunite itself
- Equipment (like pumps and filters)
- Upgrades (tile, coping, water features, etc.)
Think of it like buying a car. A base model gets you from point A to B, but if you want leather seats, upgraded tech, and premium finishes, the price goes up. Pools work the same way. You can start with a basic setup, then upgrade things like plaster finish, tile selection, lighting, and smart controls.
Popular finish brands include QuartzScapes, SunStone, and PebbleTec—with PebbleTec being the most premium (and most expensive).
Best Time to Build a Pool
If you’re in our region, the ideal time to start a pool build is late February or early March. That gives enough lead time to get work done before the busy summer season.
We try to get as many pools in the ground before the holidays (Thanksgiving to Christmas), then pick up again in January and February, depending on weather.
By planning ahead, you can enjoy your new pool by the time warm weather rolls around.
Ready to build your dream pool? Whether you want a sleek modern retreat or a natural oasis, we can help bring your vision to life. Let’s talk about your ideas and get a plan in motion.
