Thin options for a pool area

[anawanahuanana]

Hi all. Back in December I had approx 45 sq metres of concrete laid at the end of our pool area. Currently this "patio" is still bare concrete but I really have to do something with it soon. Because of one thing and another, I want to keep the height of any covering as low as possible, which lead me to originally decide to go for stenciling. However, as time has gone by, I'm not so sure how it will hold up in the longer term, and if subsequent cracking in the slab will leave it looking poor.

So then I thought about pavers, but these tend to be 40mm thick, which is a bit much height gain for me, especially when you add on whatever is underneath them. Finally I guess I could use outdoor tiles, but I'm not sure how slippery these would be for people with wet feet.

I guess I'm just looking for peoples opinions. Is polishing the slab an option, or does that require prior planning as to the type of aggregate used in the concrete? Are there any other options for coverings? Cost is obviously a big consideration too. Paving/tiling I could do myself, but not stenciling obviously.

Tell me, what would you do?! :2tsup:

Thanks in advance.

[cherub65]

Can use a stone tile and glue to slab, height would be approx. 15-20 mm higher.
Recently used a Himalayan sandstone tile around a saltwater pool looks great and very hard wearing.
Cut expansion joints in slab if not already done to control cracking in slab and tiles.

[anawanahuanana]

Thanks Cherub65. I've had a quick look online and I really like the look of the Himalayan Sandstone tiles. Some places have them on special for around the $30-35 mark per sq metre, for 400x400x15 tiles. Does this sound reasonable in your opinion?

In my mind sandstone is quite a soft material. Is this not the case? I'm easily mislead! You said they were hardwearing, and I assume they must be sealed every year or 2 to stop them getting stained.

The slab already has expansion joints cut into it. Thanks for your help.

[cherub65]

Price is good. The stone is very dense unlike local sandstone. Seal once after you lay, then grout (makes cleaning up easier) Use good quality sealer which allows the stone to breathe.

[anawanahuanana]

Thanks again. I'll get right on it!