Wire Mesh vs. Rebar Under Pool Deck Concrete: Which is Better for Structural Support?
When constructing a swimming pool deck, one crucial aspect of ensuring the longevity and structural stability of the concrete is the reinforcement placed underneath. At Super Pools, we often get asked about the difference between using wire mesh and rebar under pool deck concrete, and which is more effective. In this blog, we’ll break down the purpose of each, explain why we use wire mesh over rebar, and talk about the added value of our crushed rock backing.
What Does Wire Mesh and Rebar Do for Pool Decks?
Both wire mesh and rebar serve a similar purpose—reinforcing concrete. Concrete alone is strong in compression but weak in tension, meaning it can crack or break under certain stresses. Adding reinforcement like wire mesh or rebar helps distribute the loads evenly, preventing cracks and ensuring the structural integrity of the deck over time.
Wire Mesh: Wire mesh, typically made of steel, comes in a grid format and is used primarily to help control cracks caused by shrinkage and temperature changes. It provides tensile strength, allowing the concrete to "flex" under stress, which is important for a surface that will experience temperature fluctuations and potential settling.
Rebar: Rebar, or reinforcing steel bars, is a heavier-duty reinforcement option, often used in areas that will experience heavy loads—such as driveways, parking lots, or structural foundations. It provides superior tensile strength compared to wire mesh, making it ideal for load-bearing applications.
Why Pool Decks Don’t Need the Same Reinforcement as Driveways
One key reason we use wire mesh over rebar for pool decks is that pool decks don’t experience the same kinds of stress as other concrete surfaces like driveways. Unlike a driveway, a pool deck doesn’t see frequent heavy loads like cars or trucks. The primary concern with pool decks is foot traffic, which is significantly lighter.
Given that pool decks mainly endure minor loads and are primarily exposed to environmental stressors like temperature changes and ground settling, wire mesh is sufficient to provide the necessary support. Rebar would be over-engineering in this case, offering more tensile strength than required for a non-load-bearing area like a pool deck.
The Super Pools Advantage: Crushed Rock Backing
Another factor that sets Super Pools apart is our use of crushed rock backing instead of sand beneath the pool deck. Crushed rock is far superior in terms of providing a stable, solid foundation. It allows for better water drainage and compacts more effectively, reducing the likelihood of future settling and cracking.
By using crushed rock, we minimize the chances of the soil shifting over time, which is often a culprit behind cracks in concrete surfaces. In contrast, sand can shift more easily under the weight of the deck and in response to water movement, making the deck more prone to cracking.
Cost Considerations: Wire Mesh vs. Rebar
Cost is another important factor to consider when deciding between wire mesh and rebar. Generally, wire mesh is more cost-effective than rebar, especially for large areas like pool decks. Rebar is thicker, requires more labor to install, and can significantly increase the project’s cost without providing substantial benefits for non-load-bearing applications like pool decks. Wire mesh, on the other hand, is easier to install, more than adequate for pool deck reinforcement, and helps keep overall costs down while ensuring durability.
Why Super Pools Uses Wire Mesh
At Super Pools, we carefully consider the needs of our clients and the function of each part of the pool area. By using wire mesh over rebar, we ensure that your pool deck is structurally sound without adding unnecessary costs. Our wire mesh installations, combined with the superior stability provided by crushed rock backing, deliver a reliable, long-lasting solution for your pool deck that will stand up to the elements and resist cracking over time.
When choosing between wire mesh and rebar for pool deck construction, wire mesh is the clear choice for most projects due to its cost-effectiveness and suitability for the lighter loads of a pool deck. At Super Pools, we combine the use of wire mesh with crushed rock backing to create a durable, stable pool deck that will last for years to come.
If you have any questions about your pool deck or are considering a pool installation, contact us today to learn more about why our methods provide the best results.
