Swimming pools – we love them, and they’re an attractive feature in Aussie backyards given our warm and sunny climate. But to get the most out of your pool, the pool itself and the space around it has to be well built and designed, so that you can use your pool with minimal hassle and maximal safety. And along with all the other choices you’ll have to make when installing a pool, you’ll also need to consider your choice of flooring material to surround the pool.
Your pool surrounds are just as important as the pool itself, and will affect the look and function of your pool enormously. The surrounding area should act as a seamless transition between the pool and the rest of the landscape, and will get a lot of use from swimmers who will sit on it, lean against it or relax on it. The pool surrounds make the pool’s edge functional, welcoming and comfortable, and increase the enjoyment of anyone using the pool.
Swimming pools are traditionally surrounded by timber decking, concrete or pavers made from stone, concrete or porcelain. And while all these materials will do the job adequately, there’s a more modern, safer and more environmentally conscious option that’s even better.
It’s called porous paving.
What exactly is porous paving?
Porous paving is a type of permeable pavement that allows water to drain through the surface. Porous pavements work to passively manage water run-off and infiltration in a sustainable way, reducing water run-off and promoting infiltration into the ground where it’s needed. It’s an extremely effective alternative to traditional impermeable pavement surfaces such as concrete or stone tiles, which prevent water from penetrating into the ground. And obviously, the management of water around a pool is of the utmost importance. Pool surrounds need to be able to cope with frequent splashes, surges, puddles and often waves of water emerging from the pool. The problem with traditional pool surround materials is that they can become slippery and hard to walk on when they get wet – which happens more often than not when the kids are cannonballing into the pool, or having splash fights or swimming races, or the dog decides to jump in and then shake himself all over the deck. A wet surface is a given around a pool – and traditional materials just aren’t designed to cope effectively with that.
That’s where porous paving comes in.
The benefits of porous paving around pools
Porous paving is the ideal draining surface for outdoor areas such as swimming pools (it’s also useful for courtyards, terraces, decks and pedestrian walkways and driveways). Unlike traditional concrete pavers, stone or timber, a porous pavement allows water from the pool to quickly drain through the surface and into the ground below. Not only does this reduce the number of puddles surrounding the pool, it will also reduce the number of falls, slips and accidents that are likely to occur. The surface is grippy and non-slip and prevents puddles from forming, and is smooth and pleasant to walk on, even if you’re barefoot. And it’s cooler to the touch than concrete and tile alternatives, too.
Less water lying around on the pool deck doesn’t just mean fewer falls. It also means less algae is likely to grow (and need cleaning off) and fewer mosquitoes are likely to find prime breeding areas around your pool.
And you’re not sacrificing looks for safety, either. Porous paving comes in a variety of colours and styles, allowing you to customise your look to suit the décor of your home and outdoor area. And did we mention this type of pavement is also extremely low maintenance? The very porosity of the surface means it’s unlikely to come loose over time, so it won’t need replacing often. It won’t lose its colour with prolonged UV exposure either. You won’t need to seal it like concrete tiles, or repair it as you may need to with stone or concrete, which can get worn or damaged over time.
Porous paving will last a long time too, as it’s not adversely affected by long-term exposure to chlorine or salt water. It won’t look run down and worn either, but will stay looking good for many years to come without a problem. It’s a hardwearing pool surrounds choice that also has huge benefits for the environment.
The environmental benefits of porous paving
Impermeable pavement surfaces prevent stormwater from being absorbed into the ground. This becomes a problem, as the water is diverted away from where it’s needed as it can’t penetrate into the ground. This increases water build-up and surface runoff, as water gets diverted into local waterways. And these waterways can quickly become overburdened with excess water influxes, leading to flooding and the loss of valuable water. What actually needs to happen is for the stormwater to be absorbed back into the ground to recharge local groundwater tables – and traditional impermeable surfaces prevent this from happening as it should.
As well, when you use traditional pool surrounding material, pollutants will quickly build up on the surface during dry weather. When it rains, all these toxic pollutants (pesticides, fertilisers, detergents, hydrocarbons etc.) are washed into the water system where they damage natural habitats and wildlife.
Porous paving prevents these problems from occurring, by allowing rainwater to seep through the pavement and be absorbed directly into the ground, instead of pooling on top of impenetrable pavers and then running away.
Where can I buy porous paving?
Heritage Tree Care supplies the latest in porous paving technology, made from the highest quality materials and designed to meet the specific needs of your project. Have a look here: https://www.heritagetreecare.com.au/what-we-do/porous-paving/
And if you already have a pool surrounded by a traditional surfacing material, you still have choices. Porous paving can be used to resurface old pool sides and convert them to a more modern, safe and friendly area that far more useable. Get in contact to discuss your porous paving options – we’re happy to help: https://heritageporouspaving.com.au/contact-us/
Porous paving: the ground cover of choice for the eco-conscious