WPC for pool surrounds: advantages, disadvantages and instructions

Pool surrounds: WPC or wood? – Advantages and disadvantages

In many ways, whether you choose WPC or wood as a pool surround is a matter of taste. The great advantage of wood is that it is a natural material and has a homely effect even if many wood species turn grey over the years. It is important to choose the right type of wood, since it can be exposed to many stresses outdoors, especially around the pool. Durability is an important criterion to consider when choosing wood. This is an indication of how weatherproof the wood is and also how resistant it is to mould and insects. Tropical woods especially fall in to this category, but there are several domestic wood species that could be considered for use around pools and on terraces.
 
The wood-plastic composite also has the benefit that it does not splinter and is easy to care for. The planks do not have to be sanded down, impregnated, oiled or waxed. Even chlorine and salt cannot penetrate or damage WPC pool surrounds. Another advantage is that WPC planks are very slip-proof when wet. However, neither wood nor WPC planks should sit constantly in water.

Advantages of wood	Advantages of WPC
Weatherproof Natural and ageless If cared for properly, will not splinter and is resistant to chlorine and saltwater	Weatherproof Natural appearance Easy to maintain, no painting required Does not splinter, resistant to insects Resistant to chlorine and saltwater Ant-slip, also when wet

Ultimately, wood and WPC are both good for pools and terraces. If you prefer a natural look, choose wood, but if easy maintenance is more important, perhaps a WPC pool surround is the best choice.

Installing WPC a pool surround: three-step instructions

WPC planks can be installed around a pool in just three steps. Before you begin, you must know exactly where WPC is to be installed at the pool: only as a pool surround, as a terrace surface or together with other materials such as stone. We always recommend ordering a few more WPC elements than would be necessary according to the sketch so that you are prepared for any mishaps. Usually, unused elements can be returned without any problem or they can be recycled in an environmentally friendly manner.

All WPC pool surrounds also need a substructure. This is best made of steel or aluminium to withstand the moisture around the pool. When the plan and substructure are ready, you can start installing the planks:
 
1. First the clips
First, place and screw the clips on the rail between the planks.
 
2. Then the planks
The planks are attached to the wings of the clips, screwed in place and, if necessary, cut to length with a saw.
 
3. And finally, the pool surround
Close any gaps between a higher WPC pool surround and the edge of the pool with offcuts, brackets and screws.
 
If you would like some more information, we can provide more detailed instructions to install WPC terrace planks. Generally, practised DIYers have no problem working with the WPC system. If you would prefer an expert to install the planks, we recommend one of our specialist partners in your area in Germany.
 
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