When you step onto a pool deck, the surface should feel secure underfoot and pleasantly cool—even at high noon in July. Few materials check those boxes as effortlessly as coral stone. Here’s why builders, designers, and homeowners are switching to this uniquely Floridian limestone for pool surrounds.
1. Built-in Non-Slip Safety
-
High natural porosity gives coral stone a wet-grip coefficient of friction ≥ 0.70, well above the 0.60 guideline many codes recommend for public pool decks.
-
The stone’s tiny cavities act like suction cups, dispersing water so bare feet (and paws) stay stable—even during rambunctious cannon-balls.
-
No need for aftermarket anti-slip coatings that can yellow or peel.
2. Remarkably Low Heat Retention
-
Coral stone’s light color and open cellular structure keep surface temperatures 8-15 °F (4-8 °C) cooler than conventional concrete pavers in identical sun exposure tests.
-
Thermal conductivity is roughly 0.9 W/m·K, far lower than dense granites or porcelains, so heat dissipates before it can build up.
-
Result: you can walk barefoot without “hot-footing” even in 110 °F desert summers.
3. Naturally Resistant & Durable
-
Formed from ancient reef organisms, the stone is – salt-tolerant, making it ideal for coastal pools and salt-water chlorination systems.
-
Compressive strength averages 4,000–5,000 psi—comparable to standard structural concrete—so it stands up to patio furniture, planters, and rolling carts.
-
With minimal silica content, it’s cooler on the eye too; the subtle cream and shell accents complement both modern glass-tile pools and traditional Mediterranean motifs.
-
A high-end natural finish instantly upgrades curb appeal and can boost resale, especially in warm-climate markets where “cool deck” features command a premium.
Ready to Feel the Difference?
Coral Stone USA stocks both tiles and sand-set pavers in 24 × 24, 16 × 24, coping, and custom radial pieces—all backed by preferred trade pricing. Contact us for samples or a quick take-off, and turn your pool deck into a barefoot-friendly oasis that stays cool, safe, and stunning year-round.
Have a technical question or need ASTM test data? Let us know—we’re happy to share the numbers.