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Coping – A Guide

“Coping” – the word seems more apt in a blog post about psychology, than it does in a post about pools. But, did you know that many home fibreglass swimming pools need coping?

In this article, we discuss in depth what “coping” really is, why you need it, types of coping and how to choose one. So, let’s dive right in.

What is Coping in home swimming pools?

Fibreglass swimming pools Brisbane for the house come in two distinct kinds – above-ground pools and in-ground pools. If you have an above-ground pool, you don’t have to worry about coping. But, if you have an in-ground pool, or plan to get one, keep reading.

In-ground pools that are made in concrete flooring, will need a special edging called “coping”. This edging is needed to prevent debris, dirt, pests and other contaminants from settling between the fibreglass layer and the concrete sides.

The external shell of the fibreglass swimming pool is surrounded by and protected by the coping, reducing any vulnerability that your pool may have towards getting damaged or bent out of shape. Also, the coping acts as a way to hold the water inside your fibreglass pool. Without a solid and durable coping, your in-ground pool may start to leak water over time and you’ll spend hundreds of dollars refilling your pool more often than you should in a month.

In addition to the practicality and functionality of coping, there is also an aesthetic element. These days, home fibreglass pool installation companies can design really elegant looking coping for your new home swimming pool. This coping can make your pool look chic and inviting, increasing the beauty and sale value of your home at the same time.

But what exactly is coping – have I seen it before?

Yes, it is very likely that you would have seen coping in other swimming pools – whether they’re at a friend’s home or a public pool.

Remember that feature that runs around the edges of the swimming pool and juts outward? The part which you grab onto when trying to climb out of the pool (especially when the ladder or steps aren’t nearby)? Or perhaps you’ve hung onto the top edge of the pool to rest between laps?

The part of the swimming pool you hold onto in these instances – well, that’s the coping.

Types of coping to choose from

When we talk of the types of coping, we’re basically talking about the different materials that you can use to install coping at your home pool. So, which materials should you use for your pool coping?

Well, some swimming pool coping options include –

  • Concrete

That’s right, you can use concrete coping for your in-ground pool, built within the concrete ground. Concrete is very affordable and quick drying. You can install it in a matter of hours and start using your new pool within a day or two.

  • Tiles

Ceramic tiles are another type of coping material. These are more expensive than concrete but give a better finish. You can actually purchase tiles that match or contrast with the colour of your swimming pool, to give your pool a beautiful look.

  • Natural stone

Natural stones like marble and granite, amongst others, are sometimes used as coping. These stones can be particularly expensive. But, for the money you pay, you get the most elegant-looking pools, perfect for your penthouse suite or mansion.

If you do want to use natural stone for your swimming pool coping, but don’t want to break the bank, then Flagstone is a great choice. Flagstones make a very aesthetically pleasing coping because they add natural air to your pool. In particular, if you are getting an in-ground home pool installed, which looks like a natural pond, then flagstones will fit in perfectly with the aesthetic.

Within the selection of natural stones, Travertine, a type of natural limestone, is particularly popular with pool coping. It is anti-slipping and is very safe for homes with young kids or aged pool users. Plus, Travertine stays cool during the summer and you won’t burn your feet on your way to the pool.

  • Pavers

That’s right! The pavers that you use in the driveway, patio and walkway, can also be used as coping for your new home swimming pool. The great thing about pavers is that you get them in a variety of shapes, sizes, colours and textures. So, if you want to create a kid-friendly or pet-friendly pool, then you can handpick the type of paver you want, which will make the young ones super happy and also keep them safe.

  • Brick

Brick can also work as an excellent material for coping. While brick is generally quite durable and also extremely affordable, it can crack due to rough use or if you drop something heavy on it. In that case, even a single cracked or loose brick can destabilise your entire brick pool coping and you may need to call in the experts to take a look and repair or reinstall your coping.

Styles of coping available

So, what type of coping style should you choose for your pool? Well, there are three styles to select from –

  • Top mount

Here, a C-shaped aluminium edge is installed on the outside edge of the pool. This aluminium is coated with a material that is all-weather-proof.

  • Cantilever edge

Here, concrete is poured over the edge of the ground, so that the coping reaches a few inches above the waterline of the pool. This gives a sort-of-rounded edge to the pool.

  • Bullnose

Bullnose coping refers to any rounded coping edge. Here, any material used for coping will be rounded completely to avoid there being sharp edges that can hurt children and pets.

In Conclusion

We are a reputed home fibreglass swimming pool installation service provider based out of Australia. We have installed pool coping for hundreds of home swimming pools. Our team has an extensive collection of coping options and styles for you to choose from. Take a look at our past work and select the best coping for your pool.

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