How to Install a Pool Deck With Pavers [+ Design Ideas You’ll Love]

Whether you’re building a brand-new pool deck making the switch from wood to pavers, we’re here to explain how to install your dream deck, step-by-step.  

We’ll share key factors to consider when choosing pool pavers, unique design ideas and our most popular concrete pavers at Unilock, perfect for pool patios. 

Looking for top-quality pavers? Explore our selection at Unilock

Considerations When Choosing Pavers for Your Pool Deck 

When selecting pavers for your pool patio, it’s important to consider appearance, texture and several other factors to ensure that your patio is both aesthetically pleasing and safe.

1. Appearance

Pool pavers come in a wide range of colors, textures and styles, and the appearance of your pavers should complement the overall design and style of your outdoor area. 

For example, if your outdoor area is designed with timeless materials such as brick, wood and natural stone, you might opt for natural stone pavers like Hollandstone™ to provide a classic look. 

For a minimalist design, you could use concrete pavers such as the Umbriano™ in Winter Marvel or Midnight Sky to help evoke a granite-like appearance. 

Equipped with our EasyClean™ technology, the Umbriano makes cleanup a breeze, while preventing stains from unexpected spills. 

Unilock tip: Check out our blog about patio paver patterns for more style ideas!

2. Durability

Pool patio pavers need to withstand exposure to water, sunlight and pool chemicals, such as chlorine and bromine, without cracking or fading. 

At Unilock, we offer a wide range of durable concrete pavers and slabs for your pool patio project, complete with innovative technologies that improve color and protect their appearance over time. 

3. Texture

When choosing pavers for your pool deck, opt for pavers with a non-slip finish to help prevent accidents. 

Thanks to our ColorFusion™ Technology, which diffuses rich color and granite particles to achieve a natural, non-slip texture, we offer a selection of non-slip pavers including Umbriano™, Arcana™ and Series™. 

4. Sealing

Sealing your pool pavers can help protect them from damage caused by pool chemicals and environmental factors, such as UV rays and freeze-thaw cycles.    

Sealing frequency differs depending on the pool patio paver you choose. 

For example, flagstone pavers require sealing every three to four years, while concrete pavers require sealing every three to five years. 

At Unilock, our pavers are designed for optimal durability, with or without a sealer. 

5. Heat Resistance

Pool pavers that are heat-resistant (like our Beacon Hill™ Flagstone) provide a more comfortable surface to walk on. 

Choosing pavers that are heat-resistant can also help prevent your pavers from expanding and contracting, which can lead to chipping or cracking over time. 

6. Budget

Pool pavers come in a wide range of prices. For example, concrete pavers are less expensive than bricks, costing between $2 and $4 per square foot, requiring sealing every three to five years. 

On the other hand, bluestone pavers are more expensive upfront, but require less maintenance, with sealing recommended every five to eight years. 

Tools You’ll Need to Install a Pool Deck With Pavers 

Here are some must-have tools to keep nearby when installing pool patio pavers: 

• Tiller: A tool used to remove grass. 
• Plate compactor: Equipment that is used to compact soil, gravel or sand. It consists of a heavy steel plate that vibrates to compress and flatten material. 
• Paver saw: A power tool used to cut through pavers, bricks and other masonry materials. It consists of a motorized saw blade mounted on a sliding table, which can be adjusted to make precise cuts. 
• Angle grinder: A portable power tool used for grinding and polishing. It consists of a motorized head with a rotating disc or wheel that can be adjusted. 
• Paver sealer: A liquid solution used to protect the surface of pavers from damage caused by exposure to weather, UV rays, stains, and general wear and tear, while enhancing color and appearance. 
• Stiff broom: A type of broom used to remove tough stains and debris. 
• Nap roller: A tool used to roll on thick paver sealants. 
• Sprayer with an adjustable nozzle head: A tool used to spray on thick paver sealants. 

How to Install a Pool Deck With Pavers 

Installing a pool deck with pavers is a great way to improve the look of your pool area, while making it safe with a non-slip surface and adding your unique style to your backyard oasis. 

Here’s how to install pool patio pavers in eight steps: 

1. Prepare the Area

First, prepare the area where you’ll be installing the pavers. Using a tiller to remove existing grass, plants and debris from the area. 

Then, level the ground to create a smooth and even surface on which to install your pavers.

2. Lay the Base

Next, put down a base layer of crushed stone or gravel. This layer helps drain water faster and provides a stable base for the pavers. 

Using a plate compactor, spread the base layer evenly. 

3. Add the Sand Layer

Once the base layer is in place, pour one inch of polymeric sand on top, then level and compact it. 

4. Place the Pavers

Next, it’s time to lay the pavers. 

Begin at one corner and work your way outwards, placing each paver in the desired pattern. 

Make sure that each paver is level with the adjacent pavers and that there is a small gap — about 1/8 inch — between each paver to drain water. 

5. Cut the Pavers

When you reach the edge of the pool, you may need to cut the pavers in order to create the perfect fit. You can do this with a paver saw or angle grinder. 

6. Fill the Joints

Once all the pavers are in place, add sand or a sand-and-cement mix in between the joints. 

Use a stiff broom to sweep the sand in between the joints, then use a plate compactor to pack the sand. 

7. Seal the Pavers (Optional)

 While sealing pavers is an optional step, it can help protect your pavers against future weed and mildew growth, as well as damage caused by UV rays. 

If you are using a thin, water-based sealer, opt for a sprayer with an adjustable nozzle head. Apply the sealer in a circular motion. 

If you are using a thick sealer, such as solvent sealers, opt for a nap roller. Apply the sealer with an up and down motion. 

Once you have sealed all the pavers, let them dry for a minimum of 24 hours to prevent your sealer from peeling off. 

Need help with your pool deck? Find a Unilock Authorized Contractor!

Design Ideas for Pavers Around Your Pool 

At Unilock, we’re the hardscape authority when it comes to designing pool patios. Here’s a look at some of our design recommendations for inspiration.  

1. Create an Accent Border

To create an accent border, choose a primary paver and an accent paver. The accent paver should complement the color and style of the primary paver. You can opt for a contrasting color or a paver with a different texture. 

In this photo below, this homeowner opted for our Courtstone® pavers in Basalt to provide an accent border around the pool deck. 

Complementing our Brussels Block® pavers in Sandstone, the dark hues of the accent pavers and the creamy color of the primary pavers create a high-contrast, striking result.

2. Add Movement Using a Unique Pattern

Add dimension to your pool patio by utilizing a zigzag pattern. A zigzag pattern creates a cohesive and engaging design that draws the eye and allows you to show off your unique style. 

To create this design, lay your pavers in a diagonal pattern, starting from one corner and working your way out. 

3. Use Different Textures and Patterns

If you want to create a subtle division between your pool patio and walkway, consider patio pavers with different finishes. 

In the photo below, this homeowner mixed our Copthorne® and Town Hall® pavers to divide the two elements. 

For the pool patio, our Beacon Hill™ Flagstone pavers offer a relaxed look and feel.  

Thanks to our Comfort Step technology, this patio is comfortable to walk on in bare feet (three times better than traditional pavers!) making it the ideal paver for a pool patio on a hot summer day.

Paver Patterns to Use on a Pool Deck   

You can arrange pavers in a variety of patterns to add visual interest to your pool area. Some of the more popular patterns for pool decks include: 

• Stacked Bond Pattern: A simple yet classic design that is accomplished by laying pavers in a straight and stacked pattern. This pattern is often used in contemporary designs to create a clean and elegant look. 
• Running Bond Pattern: A timeless design that is achieved by laying pavers in rows to create a pattern that is reminiscent of brickwork. This pattern is often used in high-traffic areas, such as pool decks and patios. 
• Zigzag Pattern: A distinctive design that is obtained by laying pavers in a diagonal pattern. This pattern adds dimension and movement to a pool deck, walkway or patio. 
• Octagonal Pattern: A unique design that is achieved by laying pavers in an octagonal shape. This type of geometric pattern gives your pool deck a non-traditional look. 
• Herringbone Pattern: A pattern meant to resemble the bones of a herring fish and offer a zig-zag design. This pattern is created by placing each paver at a 45-degree angle to the paver next to it. 

Looking for pool deck ideas? Request a design catalog

Explore Modern Pool Pavers at Unilock  

At Unilock, we have dedicated years to building world-class outdoor spaces across Canada and the United States. 

For over 50 years, we’ve been helping homeowners and DIY enthusiasts design their dream pool decks, along with entertainment patios and wraparound driveways. 

Whether you’re building your pool patio from scratch or upgrading your wooden deck to a paver deck, you can choose from a wide range of colors and sizes, shapes and textures to match your unique style, at Unilock. 

Not sure which pool pavers to use? Our experts can help you find the perfect material and style to match your project needs and budget. 

Elevate your pool deck. Find a Unilock Authorized Contractor