
Guide · Materials and Surfaces
Porcelain Pavers vs Travertine for Pool Decks
Two popular pool deck materials, compared on heat, grip, stain resistance, look and care.
Call us today615-209-7643Two popular pool deck materials, compared on heat, grip, stain resistance, look and care.
Travertine: natural and cool
Travertine is a natural stone known for staying relatively cool underfoot and for its warm, creamy tones. Honed and tumbled finishes give good grip around water.
It is porous, so it benefits from sealing and care, and it can stain if spills are left.
Porcelain: dense and low-upkeep
Outdoor porcelain pavers are dense, colorfast and resistant to stains and salt. They come in stone, wood and concrete looks in crisp, large formats and can be installed on pedestals or a base.
Dark colors can warm in strong sun, so lighter shades are a good match for pools.
Grip, safety and edges
Whatever the material, choose a textured finish for wet areas and use a coping that gives a firm, comfortable edge. Plan drainage so water leaves the deck instead of pooling.
Which should you choose?
Choose travertine if you love natural character and a warm look, and porcelain if you prefer a clean, modern style with very little upkeep. We bring samples to the pool so you can compare in the sun.
In This Guide
Outdoor Living Styles Mentioned
FamiliesRelax and Play
Pool Decks and Cabanas
A cool, non-slip deck with room to lounge, shade to rest in and an easy flow from house to water.
More Guides
Keep Reading
Materials and SurfacesPavers vs Stamped Concrete vs Natural Stone
Each patio surface has strengths. Here is a plain comparison of look, repair, comfort and upkeep to help you choose.
Read the guide
Materials and SurfacesChoosing the Right Patio Surface for Sun and Shade
Dark surfaces get hot in the sun, and light surfaces can glare. Here is how color, texture and material change how a patio feels underfoot.
Read the guide
Materials and SurfacesHow Pavers Are Installed, Step by Step
A paver patio looks simple on top, but the real work is underneath. Here is how a patio is built from bare ground to finished surface.
Read the guideTalk to a real person
Ready to start? Call us.
Request a Consultation
Start a Conversation
Tell us about your yard, what you would like to build and when you would like to begin. We reply promptly and treat every inquiry with care. Prefer to talk? Call 615-209-7643.
Request a Consultation

TN Patio designs and builds patios, outdoor kitchens, fire features, pergolas, walls and complete outdoor living spaces for homes across Tennessee, from first sketches and 3D plans to the first evening outside.
- 615-209-7643
- Patios, outdoor kitchens and outdoor living
- Serving homeowners across Tennessee
Company
Service Categories
Popular Services
- Paver Patio Installation
- Outdoor Kitchen Design and Construction
- Fire Pits and Fire Tables
- Pergolas and Arbors
- Covered Patios and Porches
- Pool Decks and Surrounds
- Natural Stone and Flagstone Patios
- Retaining Walls
- Patio and Landscape Lighting
- Patio Design and 3D Renderings
- Drainage for Patios and Yards
- Permits and HOA Approvals
