Podcast Recap: What to Know About Landscaping Around Your Pool
On this episode of the Aloha Deep Dive Podcast, recorded live at an expo, hosts John Watts and Brad Cook talked with Craig Petermeyer, owner of Outdoor Creations, about how landscaping and hardscaping choices can make or break the look and function of a backyard pool.
What is travertine, and how much more does it cost than concrete?
Travertine is a natural stone, often mined in Turkey or Mexico, known for staying about 60 to 65 percent cooler than concrete in direct sun. Craig explained that while concrete typically runs $12.50 to $15 per square foot, travertine on a rock base can run closer to $35 per square foot, and higher, around $45 to $50, if it needs a concrete base underneath. Standard pavers tend to fall in between, generally two and a half to three times the cost of plain concrete.
Pavers vs. porcelain tile vs. travertine: what’s the difference?
According to Craig, pavers offer the best overall value since they don’t require pouring concrete and hold up well over time. Porcelain tile sits at an even higher price point and takes significantly more labor to cut and install, in Craig’s experience, one large porcelain job used six diamond blades instead of the usual one for a similar-sized paver job. Travertine lands in the middle, prized for its natural look and cool touch, especially popular for pool decks and coping.
Do retaining walls and drainage matter around a pool?
Yes, and Craig cautioned against DIY retaining walls in particular. These structures follow engineered specifications for a reason, and a wall that’s built incorrectly can fail and create a safety hazard. Drainage came up too, especially for pools installed near a home’s foundation, where French drains or dry creek beds (sometimes lined with rubber for hidden function) can redirect water while still looking intentional.
What role does landscaping play in pool remodels?
Craig’s team frequently works on refurbishing older pool landscaping, cutting out damaged or buckled concrete and blending in pavers so the transition looks planned rather than patched. He also touched on smaller details that come up during remodels, like raising pool coping, adjusting skimmers, or working around rusted water slide anchors.
What should you plant (or not plant) around a pool?
Craig’s advice? Keep it simple. Flowering plants and trees like crepe myrtles tend to drop petals and debris into the pool, creating extra cleanup. Most of his pool clients opt for rock beds and a few small perennials instead, saving privacy landscaping for the outer edges of the yard.
Why this matters for pool owners
A pool is only part of the full backyard picture. Thoughtful hardscaping, proper drainage, and low-maintenance plant choices all affect how much a pool area gets used and enjoyed long after installation day.
Listen to the full episode
Curious about pool deck materials, drainage solutions, or general landscaping for your new pool? Catch the full episode on our podcast page or YouTube channel. Ready to start planning your own backyard project? Reach out to an Aloha sales rep today.
