Natural stone pool coping: the ultimate guide for homeowners

Written by

25 March 2025

•

3 min read

Upgrade your poolside with affordable, slip-resistant stone coping from Natural Stone Imports, whether you're building new or retrofitting.

As a timeless and versatile material, stone is used in many parts of design and construction. For pools, it offers many qualities including aesthetic design, durability and low maintenance – not only elevating the aesthetic appeal of your pool but also delivering practical benefits.

The benefits of stone pool coping

Durable

“Natural Stone pool coping is an extremely strong and durable material suitable for use around pools,” says Marnie Dobson, Director at Natural Stone Imports.

Designed to withstand the harsh conditions around pools – think constant water exposure, chlorine, and foot traffic – one of the primary advantages of natural stone pool coping is that it is cut from solid pieces, ensuring longevity. “Drop Face coping is cut from a solid piece of stone, so there is no risk of the face dropping off, unlike man-made products that are glued together.”

Affordable and low-maintenance

A common misconception is that natural stone is costly and high-maintenance. In reality, it’s often more affordable than many synthetic options. “Then, once sealed, a gentle water blast when required will return the stone to its original state, and sealing only needs to be repeated every 5-10 years,” says Marnie.

Plenty of design options

Natural Stone Imports stocks eight stone types, with additional varieties available by special order, alongside three profile edges – Drop Face, Bullnose, and Square/Arrised Edge – in various sizes. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or organic appearance, there’s an option to match your vision. This versatility extends to both new pool installations and retrofits.

Drop Face pool coping

Drop Face is an L-shaped coping stone that drops into the edge of the pool giving the appearance of a thicker piece of stone.

Bullnose pool coping

Bullnose is a traditional rounded edge coping used to cap the shell wall of the swimming pool. It is available with a flamed, tumbled, or flamed and brushed finish.

Square Edge pool coping

Square edge is a modern arrissed edge coping used to cap the shell wall of the swimming pool. It is available in the same colours as Drop Face and Bullnose coping.

Drop Face, Bullnose and Square Edge pool coping are all available in White Quartzite, Aspen Granite, Grey Granite, Black Granite, Classic Travertine, Silver Travertine, Chambolle Limestone, and Seagrass Limestone. Other stone types and colours are available for custom order, including Bluestone, Atlantic Stone, Black Basalt, Limestone Blue, and Fantasy Granite.

There are three profiles to choose from, and a variety of colours to suit all projects.

For new and old

All products can be used for new pools and retrofits.

For new pools, homeowners can coordinate coping size with elements like a bondbeam or pair it with backing pavers for a cohesive surround.

When retrofitting an existing pool, you can replace old coping. “You will need to take into consideration the existing coping thickness if you’re ripping it up and replacing it,” says Marnie. “There is also the option to install over the top of existing coping with a Drop Face profile if the existing coping/edging is stable enough.”

The material is durable, low-maintenance and affordable.

Finding the right pool coping for your project

Whether you’re a designer, landscaper, builder, or homeowner, Natural Stone Imports simplifies the process of selecting the right pool coping. Tailored advice can be offered, factoring in considerations such as climate, lifestyle, colour preferences and budget. Quotes off the plan can also be provided.

Ticking the boxes for durability, practicality and style, natural stone pool coping is a great way to enhance your poolside. Whether you’re building new or refreshing an existing pool, Natural Stone Imports can help find the right option for you. Get in touch with the team and explore more of their products on ArchiPro.