What Decking Materials Are Best for Poolside Decks in Los Angeles?

Building a poolside deck in Los Angeles isn’t just about looks, it’s about choosing materials that can handle sun, water, and wear without constant upkeep. At LA Decks, we’ve installed poolside decks across LA’s diverse neighborhoods, from Malibu to Pasadena, and we’ve seen which materials hold up and which ones fall short.

This guide breaks down the best decking materials for poolside decks in Los Angeles, based on real-world experience and what performs best in Southern California’s climate.

Ipe: A Top Choice for Luxury Poolside Decks

Ipe is one of the most durable and water-resistant hardwoods available, making it a top-tier option for poolside decks in LA. This Brazilian hardwood is extremely dense (one of the densest in the world), naturally slip-resistant, and highly resistant to rot, insects, and moisture. 

In neighborhoods like Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and Pacific Palisades, Ipe is often the material of choice for high-end pool decks. Its deep brown tones complement modern and traditional homes alike, and with proper installation, it can last decades with minimal maintenance. Something to keep in mind; because ipe is extremely dense, installation is more difficult than average American softwoods. 

Cumaru: Tropical Strength with Warm Tones

Cumaru is another excellent hardwood used for poolside decks in Los Angeles. Similar to Ipe in strength and density, Cumaru offers a warmer color palette with golden and reddish hues that work well with Spanish-style and Mediterranean homes found in areas like Glendale or Encino. Cumaru is a great budget-friendly alternative to Ipe, with similar qualities at a lower price point.

Cumaru performs well in wet environments and holds its shape under LA’s intense sun. It’s a great choice for homeowners who want tropical durability without the darker look of Ipe.

Garapa: A Light and Budget-Friendly Hardwood

For the most budget-conscious hardwood option, Garapa offers good water resistance and a lighter, honey-gold color. It’s not as hard as Ipe or Cumaru, but still suitable for poolside decks when properly sealed and maintained.

Garapa is often used in backyard decks throughout Burbank, Studio City, and Sherman Oaks. It’s a smart pick if you want the natural look of wood at a more accessible price point and with a lighter color aesthetic.

Composite Decking: Easy Maintenance for Busy Homeowners

Composite decking is one of the most popular materials for poolside decks in Los Angeles. Brands like TimberTech, Trex, and Deckorators manufacture boards that mimic the look of wood while offering serious resistance to water, fading, and mold.

Here’s why homeowners across Los Angeles are choosing composite:

• No splinters or warping
• Wide range of colors and textures
• Low maintenance, just rinse it off with soap and water
• Slip-resistant surfaces ideal for wet feet

Deckorators’ mineral-based composite holds up especially well in coastal areas. TimberTech and Trex are excellent for family-friendly homes where the deck sees frequent use.

PVC Decking: Maximum Water Resistance for Pool Areas

PVC decking is fully synthetic, which means it absorbs virtually no moisture. That makes it a top performer for poolside decks exposed to regular splashing or high humidity.

If you’re building a pool deck near the beach, such as in Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, or near a saltwater pool, PVC is worth considering. Brands like TimberTech-Azek offer premium PVC boards that come in stylish finishes and stay cooler underfoot in direct sun.

PVC is easy to clean and doesn’t support mold growth, making it one of the most durable and low-maintenance options available.

How to Choose the Right Decking for Your Poolside Space

Before choosing a material, think about how your space will be used and what conditions it will face. Here are a few tips:

• Heat resistance matters in areas prone to more extreme temperatures in the summer
• Moisture resistance is key if your pool is saltwater or used frequently
• UV protection helps your deck retain color in full-sun environments
• Style matters too: darker hardwoods give a modern look, while lighter woods feel more classic

At LA Decks, we help homeowners choose materials that fit both function and style, making sure your deck holds up season after season.

Get a Custom Poolside Deck Built for Los Angeles Living

Your poolside deck should be more than just beautiful, it should be built to last in the LA climate. At LA Decks, we design and build custom poolside decks using premium materials, expert craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of what works in Southern California.

We install Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa, composite, and PVC decks throughout Los Angeles and nearby cities. Whether you’re in West LA, Calabasas, or the South Bay, we offer free consultations to help bring your vision to life.

Contact LA Decks today to schedule your on-site estimate and get started on your dream poolside deck.