Sunsets the color of chile peppers, a vibrant Balloon Fiesta, and the mighty Sandia Mountains rising in the distance – Albuquerque, Duke City for a reason, offers a unique blend of beauty, culture, and outdoor living. But with a sizzling summer sun and surprising winter chills, choosing the perfect pool deck material can feel like navigating the Rio Grande at high water.
Fret no more, amigos! This guide will help you decide between pavers or concrete for the pool area you‘ve been dreaming of in Albuquerque.
Albuquerque has a high desert climate. It sits high and dry in the Rio Grande Valley with plenty of sunshine - 310 days per year. The temperature in summer averages around 93°F, but the winters are surprisingly cold and sometimes dip below freezing. This temperature shift, known as the freeze-thaw cycle, can cause problems.
That’s why it is important that you choose a material that can manage the desert climate.
The main draw of Albuquerque is its sunny weather - and we love staying active outdoors. But we have to admit that the hot weather can be uncomfortable. That's where your pool area comes in. With the pool to cool you down and the deck, an extension of your living space, you get to enjoy The Duke City on a different level.
Imagine having a place for poolside siestas and or an entertainment space for neighborhood Fiestas! Or maybe have a relaxing night as you gaze at the thousands of stars in the New Mexico night sky. Unlike the city, we have minimal light pollution here (if there’s even any), so you’ll definitely appreciate having a nice deck for a star-filled night show.
The problem is the scorching sun can turn your deck into a sizzling hot plate! That may be yummy when talking about food. But it’s terrible when we’re talking about your feet that’ll get roasted as soon as you step on that hot deck. Likewise, winter's icy grip can cause pool decks to have cracks if they aren't freeze-thaw resistant.
Now, you have a better understanding of how the high desert climate and the freeze-thaw cycles affect pool decks. But there’s more to it than that. Let’s now talk about other issues you need to consider before choosing between the two. When choosing material and design, the city’s topography and soil conditions are important factors.
- Drainage: The high desert climate means little rainfall, but when it does rain, it’s intense. Because of this, pool deck materials in Albuquerque must have rapid drainage. Both materials can do a good job at it. However, they need to be installed properly with some technique considerations in mind. For example, to lead water away from the pool, concrete pool decks in Albuquerque can be designed with a slight slope. Meanwhile, a permeable base can be used between paver units to allow for better water drainage. This can prevent pooling and minimize the risk of damage and is especially beneficial during freeze-thaw cycles.
- Slope and Elevation: Albuquerque sits at a high elevation with a varied topography that includes slopes and hills. This can impact the installation process for both materials. Concrete might require more extensive groundwork to ensure a level surface on a slope, potentially increasing costs. Pavers can be more adaptable to uneven terrain, but proper leveling and foundation preparation are still crucial for both materials.
- Evaporation: Albuquerque's arid climate fastens evaporation rates. If you are considering concrete, this is an important factor to consider. How so? Well, this material is porous. It can absorb some pool water and increase evaporation. Though it’s not a major concern, it's something to keep in mind when preserving pool water. Pavers is a winner in this. Since they have tight joints and non-porous surfaces, you can prevent more pool water from evaporating.
Affordable, low-maintenance – concrete is a popular option in Albuquerque. And with good reason! You can customize it with stamped finishes that mimic the look of stone or pavers, creating a unique look that complements your home's Adobe architecture – a true New Mexico staple.
Advantages:
- Budget-friendly: It is generally less expensive. But keep in mind that you have to reseal your pool area every 3 to 5 years.
- Low-Maintenance: Just hose it down occasionally and enjoy!
- Customization Options: Stamped concrete typically lets you get creative with textures and patterns.
Disadvantages:
- Crack City: Freeze-thaw cycles can cause cracks in concrete if not properly installed.
- Limited Design: Concrete has gone a long way in terms of design flexibility. However, compared to pavers, it still offers fewer color and texture options.
- Sunburnt Toes: Albuquerque’s temperature during summer can reach 93°F. Using lighter-colored materials is beneficial because they are better at reflecting heat. Since it is naturally darker in color, it can absorb a lot of heat. This makes it uncomfortable to walk barefoot on the flooring.
Stone and concrete pavers offer a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and patterns. Because of these features, you can create a pool area that reflects YOU. You want a turquoise one to remind you of the captivating waters of the Rio Grande? It is possible. Perhaps a design that complements the vibrant colors of a local Zia sun symbol? Done! What’s more, since they have lighter colors, they are efficient in reflecting heat. This means your pool area is cooler underfoot and safe even at the height of summer.
Pros:
- Design Versatility: Pavers come in a wide range of colors, shapes, and textures, letting you create customized paver decks.
- Cooler by the Pool: Lighter-colored paving materials reflect heat. With it, your pool area is more comfortable to walk on in all seasons.
- Patch it Up: If a paver gets damaged, you only need to replace the unit that’s been compromised. You don’t have to redo the entire deck.
Cons:
- Price Tag: They can be more expensive upfront.
- Maintenance Musings: They require additional re-sanding between the joints. Don’t worry, it's a relatively simple DIY project.
The Caliche Factor: Albuquerque has a surprise hidden beneath the surface – caliche, a hardpan soil layer. While it adds stability to our buildings, it can be a pain when installing a pool deck. The good news? Pavers often require less caliche excavation, potentially saving you money on installation.
The Cultural Touch: Albuquerque, like the rest of New Mexico, has a rich cultural heritage. If you want this strong Southwestern culture reflected on your pool deck, pavers are a good option. Their warm earth tones and intricate patterns can beautifully complement the vibe and architecture of the city. You can use them to create a culturally inspired outdoor space extension of your adobe home.
There's no one-size-fits-all answer in Albuquerque. When it comes to choosing between pavers and concrete, it’s not just about climate and topography. You also have to factor in personal considerations. You have to think of your budget, design that fits your personality, and lifestyle preferences.
- Budget: Concrete is generally the more budget-friendly option upfront. However, factor in maintenance costs for regular sealing. On top of that, if the surface and structural integrity become compromised, you might need to repair or replace the entire slab.
Travertine pavers and other stones are more expensive and might require occasional re-sanding. But when there’s a need for repair, you only have to replace individual paver units. This makes repairs and replacements easier and less expensive.
- Design Dreams: Are you more into classic and low-maintenance concrete patios? Or, are you drawn to the design versatility of pavers? Consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve for your pool area. Think about how the pool area will complement your home’s architecture, landscaping, and the surrounding environment.
- Lifestyle Considerations: How will you use your pool area? Do you have young children or pets around? They’ll most likely spend a lot of time playing around the deck and splashing in the pool. If yes, both are good choices for areas around the pool as they are slip-resistant. But pavers, which are cooler to the touch, might be a better choice.
Also, consider how much time you're willing to spend cleaning and maintaining the pool area. Both materials are relatively low-maintenance. Keep in mind though, pavers might require slightly more upkeep with occasional re-sanding and weeding. For expert guidance and top-notch installation, contact the best concrete contractors in Albuquerque, NM, today and transform your pool area into a stunning, low-maintenance oasis!
