Install Pool Coping, Retaining Wall, and Steps
At 0:07 in
From the quarry to the backyard.
What happens here
After the main base is prepared, install the natural stone pool coping. Each coping piece, likely 'full nose' as seen in the video, should be set on a fresh bed of mortar directly on the pool's bond beam or a prepared concrete cantilever. Ensure a consistent overhang into the pool and a slight slope away from the pool for drainage. Use a rubber mallet to firmly set each piece and a level to check for proper alignment and pitch. For the natural stone retaining wall and steps, dig shallow trenches for their foundations and pour concrete footings if required by local codes or for structural stability. Build the retaining wall and steps by laying natural stone blocks in courses, securing them with a strong mortar mix. Ensure each stone is level and plumb, maintaining consistent joint widths. Cut stones as necessary using an angle grinder with a diamond blade for precise fits.
Goal: Integrate key natural stone hardscape features around the pool.
Tools and materials
- Angle Grinder with Diamond Blade DeWalt — Cutting natural stone for precise fits
- Level Stabila — Checking horizontal and vertical alignment
- Mortar Mix Type S or N — Setting coping, retaining wall blocks, and steps
- Natural Stone Blocks Various — Building retaining walls and steps
- Natural Stone Coping — Edging the pool perimeter
- Rubber Mallet Various — Tapping stones into place and ensuring level seating
- Safety Glasses 3M — Eye protection when cutting stone and mixing mortar
- Trowel Marshalltown — Applying and shaping mortar
- Work Gloves Mechanix Wear — Hand protection