Can you use our Terrazzo pavers and copings for a salt water pool?

/ Giacon Terrazzo Ltd/

The short answer is yes, of course you can. Saltwater pools are a great choice these days for people who want less chemicals in their lifestyle. There are a few considerations that you need to be aware of when going down this road.

Are Terrazzo & Concrete pavers suitable for salt water?

Concrete and Terrazzo pavers have salt-resistant properties. However we still recommend that you use the right type of sealer to protect them. Our terrazzo usually incorporates natural marble or other aggregates- like the Nuance sample we used in the pool pictured below..

Pool using Nuance pavers and copings at the Randall residence in Auckland

Pool using Nuance pavers and copings at the Randall residence in Auckland

With pools you need to ensure you have the right finish, so it is not a slippery hazard.

We recommend three finishers for exterior use.

1. Fine diamond finish

2. Honed finish.

3. Brushed- exposed aggregate

All of them are non-slip for exterior and suitable around pools.

Close up of our Nuance Paver

Close up of our Nuance Paver

USE THE RIGHT SEALER

Even salt-resistant paver materials are damaged by saltwater over time. To extend the life of your pavers, apply a salt-resistant sealant. The sealant not only prevents the salt in your pool water from damaging the pavers but also stabilizes the sand between your paver joints and stops splashed water from washing it into the pool. Apply sealant to all pavers within at 2 meters of the edge of your pool. You can apply several coats of sealer, if you wish.

We recommend that you discuss this with your tile layer, so that they are sure of your requirements. Ensure that you use a penetrating sealer that will not affect the slip resistance of the pavers. The sealer should be applied in dry weather to dry pavers. Do not use a sealer that leaves a surface coat on the pavers

An example of a sealer available in New Zealand that meets this standard is Dry Treat STAIN-PROOF Original™ It is an impregnating, invisible and breathable sealer that protects natural stone, tiles, pavers, concrete and grout from damage caused by water, salts and oil-based stains. It is easier to clean the pavers and keep them looking great if they have been sealed with a great sealer. More information on this product is here

Any of our range can be used for pavers, we recommend nothing too white because of sun glare, or too dark beneath the feet. Call or email us to discuss your options.