If we were to ask the Aussies to imagine a perfect summery day, many would picture themselves in chic summer clothes, drink in hand and chilling by the poolside. Let’s face it: during the summer season, the pool area becomes the most habitable space for your family be it the kids, adults or the elderly. It won’t be entirely wrong to say that having a pool has become a must-have rather than a good-to-have. And why shouldn’t it be? It’s hard to find someone who hates the idea of having a functional swimming pool that reflects their true style. Speaking of functional pools, a lot of elements go into making them. One such key element that is often overlooked is Pool Coping.
The correct pool coping material can make your pool area functional while also enhancing its look to the T. So, whether you are working on a new project or thinking of renovating your existing pool, this read is going to help you.
Whether you are familiar with Pool Coping Standards in Australia or just starting, this blog will guide you through the selection process, leaving you with all the answers you need.
Having said that, let’s start with learning what coping is all about!
What is Pool Coping?
The edging that surrounds the pool borders is referred to as its coping. It is crucial as it provides a finished look to the pool while also adding functionality to it. Speaking of the material, these are available in a variety of options in the market such as natural stone, concrete, porcelain and more.
Types of Pool Copings You Can Commonly Find in Australia
Here are two of the most commonly used Pool Copings in Australia:
- Bullnose: Has a rounded edge.
- Drop edge/ Drop Face: Has an L-shaped edge that drops into your swimming pool.
Now that we know about the common types of coping for your pool, let’s have a look at some of the benefits.
5 Benefits of Using Coping for Your Swimming Pool
Here’s a quick glance at the advantages of having swimming Pool Coping:
- Gives a finished look
- Enhances the aesthetics
- Makes the pool area safe (with its anti-slip property)
- Saves the pool’s shell & walls from damage caused by water
- Stops debris from coming inside the pool
Now that we have covered the benefits too, let’s move on to understanding the Australian Pool Coping Standards. So, let’s get into it!
Pool Coping Standards in Australia You Must Know Of
When talking about coping for swimming pools in Australia, there are certain standards that one needs to meet. Such standards make sure that the coping materials do not compromise on safety and durability. So, have a read:
- Safety Standards: Safety is of the essence when we talk about any pool design. Naturally, the same is given key importance in the coping standards in Australia. These include:
- Non-Slip Surface: Your coping material must provide appropriate slip resistance, especially in conditions that are wet. Did you know? Australian standards have ratings for slip-resistance for different surfaces like p3 (for dry areas) and p4 (for areas that are wet like Pool Coping).
- Depth & Height: To avoid accidents such as tripping, the coping's overhang shouldn't extend too much.
- Rounded Edges: The edges of the coping material must be round or bullnosed to prevent accidents or injuries.
- Material Standards: Whatever material you choose for coping your pool area, the same must meet Australian standards. This involves UV-ray exposure, saltwater and chlorine-treated water. You may select from materials such as:
- Natural stones: Coping tiles made of natural stones like Travertine, Limestone and Marble are known to be aesthetic, naturally anti-slip and durable. To add, they are also celebrated for their timeless appeal.
- Concrete: This option is known to be an affordable and durable one but isn’t as aesthetic as natural stones.
- Porcelain: Though porcelain copings are durable and mimic natural stones, these won’t offer you a great return on investment as compared to natural stones.
- Dimensional Standards: It’s crucial for your Pool Coping to meet the dimensional standards too. The same is relevant from a safety, thickness and width point of view.
- Installation Standards: It is to be noted that appropriate pool coping installation is of key importance to maintain Australian standards. The guidelines for installation are as follows:
- Preparing the surface: Make sure that the substrate isn’t dirty, levelled and waterproof (before you install your coping).
- Grouts & adhesives: Ensure to choose top-quality grout and adhesives that can withstand temperature fluctuations and the harsh pool environment when installing your coping.
- Drip Groove: To stop the water from seeping back into the pool structure, use a drip groove beneath the overhang.
- Alignment: Make sure that the spacing is appropriate and consistent between the coping tiles.
Note: You can choose any coping material. However, as we said, it must be resistant to the UV rays, chlorine and the changing climate of Australia. To add, the same should comply with the standards for slip resistance in Australia.
Adherence To Pool Safety Laws in Australia
Not just materials and design standards, your coping should also adhere to the pool safety laws in Australia. Pool construction and maintenance are governed by the National Construction Code (NCC) and state-specific regulations. These include:
- Fencing: Coping for your swimming pool should not result in climbing hazards close to pool fences.
- Accessibility: The coping should facilitate easy entry and exit points for anyone swimming, especially for pools that have steps or ladders.
If one fails to abide by these regulations, it could turn out to be problematic. After all, no one would want costly modifications or fines.
To Sum It Up
A pool area is one of the most amazing places of a home and Pool Coping is an important part of its design. The same makes your pool area more aesthetic and functional. From giving a finished look to your pool to making sure that the debris doesn't come within the same, you now know why coping is important. Having said that ensuring that you meet Australian Pool Coping Standards is crucial so that your pool is compliant, enduring and stands to be safe for a very long time. Whether you choose natural stones, concrete, porcelain or any other material, just make sure that the same is at par with the standards mentioned above and you will be good to go. Remember, the correct coping material will make your pool area amazing and functional and a true masterpiece of your home.
FAQs
Q: How to pick pool coping?
Picking the right coping material can be tricky for a lot of people. However, everything becomes simple if you follow the Australian standards discussed above while also considering your unique project needs. To add, you can check for the following too:
- Aesthetic appeal
- Durability
- Anti-slip quality
- Longevity
- Value proposition
Q: What are the different types of copings for pools?
The Australian market is full of a variety of coping materials that you can select from such as natural stone pool copings, copings made of concrete, porcelain and more.
Q: What is the difference between bullnose and drop face coping?
Both are quite different! Where bullnose copings have a round edge, drop edge or drop face copings have an edge that is in the shape of the letter L that drops into the pool.
Q: Can you install pool coping yourself?
Yes! With the right process, materials and techniques, you can install coping for your pool all by yourself. However, it is totally okay to ask for professional help if you are stuck and do not want to do it on your own.
