Coping is the material that lines the perimeter of a pool and seals the transition between the top of the pool wall and the water. Decking surrounds the poolscape and extends far beyond the water's edge to provide a safe walking and lounging area. In short, coping is the border between the decking and the pool itself.

You can place many materials under a pool to level it, including sand, concrete, solid foam, pavers, or finely crushed gravel. You can also use a tamper or roller to level ground without using a shovel to dig. No matter the material, make sure to level the ground with sand first for a smooth, even surface for the pool to sit on.

Factors affecting pool installation costs include pool size, construction material, special features (like lighting or waterfalls), landscaping, and prevailing site conditions, which might enhance excavation complexity.

Infinity pools do require slightly more maintenance than other pools because you’ll need to constantly monitor the water level. If the water level is out of whack, it won’t correctly flow over the edge, which gives the pool its infinity look. 

That said, the rest of the maintenance is largely dependent on the type of material you choose. Concrete needs a little extra care to prevent algae growth, and you will eventually need to resurface it. Fiberglass and vinyl liners are algae-resistant but they’re not as durable.