I would definitely talk to more than one company about replacing the decking. I do think it's a good idea to go into those conversations with a good idea of what you want, then talk to the experts about what's possible.

What you have is a specialized textured decking which is slip resistant for pool areas. It also does not heat up like stone. It is a big job to replace it. $6k would not seem unreasonable to me, but it really depends on material and labour costs in your area. Like the others have suggested, you need to speak with several professional pool landscapers. First, Google the Internet and search your options. You will then have some basic knowledge when you talk with local trades.

Stamped concrete can be applied over pool decking as a less expensive alternative. In my area it runs around $3.50 a sq. ft.

mapeggy is right in that this is a specialized, textured, heat-resistant and slip-resistant covering. They usually use this type of surface at playgrounds or at very large, private swimming pools. I have done some of what was suggested. I googled types of surface possibilities with these results: large stone, various types of concrete applications including an exposed aggregate concrete, stamped or stenciled concrete, etc. For example, I didn't consider slate but I'm sure it's expensive.

I don't have any idea about the cost so, lkimberland, thanks for giving me an approximate cost for stamped concrete. I do plan to contact some pool landscapers but I would like to be very informed when I talk to them. I live in Oklahoma and I think $9,000 might be in the right price range for a big metro area but not such a good price in Oklahoma.

One additional factor-we would like to move within the next year so I would like it to look nice for the new owner.

Where in Oklahoma are you located, I have a good reference for you if you are close to them...

Josh-near okc

They are located in Tulsa, I don't think that's close enough... To help, there are a lot of options you could use, I wouldn't limit yourself, the number on the overlay seems a little high for the square footage, but it's always regional.

When I considered this in Florida the current application had to be totally removed by sandblasting and new surface installed. Costs ran $5. To $7. a square foot. I think $9k is too high, especially since the new material is being applied without any preparation. What is the problem currently? Fading? Cracks? Lifting? If moving you should consider a moderate priced solution, with visual eye appeal. I ended up repairing the cracks, then painting over the entire deck with specialized paint. It looked great when finished and saved myself thousands of dollars. Five years later it was still doing fine.

There is a great forum you can go to called gardenweb.com there is a pool forum with pool poffessionals on there that can answer your question

I have had good results with stamped concrete....

There is a very attractive and durable flooring for this type of application from a company called Lonseal (www.lonseal.com). I've used their product Londeck on an exterior walkable deck here in Michigan with great success. Unfortunately it's not inexpensive....but a very good product. They should be able to connect you with a contractor in your area.

if you go with concrete (stamped or not stamped)there is something they can apply over the top of it to make it heat resistant. i believe it is called Cool Deck or Kool Deck. Our sitters have it and it is wonderful!!! You can't tell it is on there it must be clear, cause it looks just like concrete. In the blistering heat you can walk barefoot on it and feel no heat! Magic!

Thank you everyone for your input. I'm going to look into several different finishes now and I'm learning more about what to ask, etc. Thanks Josh, mapeggy, nikkihunt, Mint Design, Martha and megannmiller.
nikkihunt-thanks for gardenweb.com direction. They have a lot of information about pools and surfaces. I've been reading so much on that site as many people have questions that we have had before but didn't want to ask anyone.

I'm going to look into the different types of concrete finishes and find out the prices.

Thanks again everyone. Great ideas!

Thanks Josh. I'll look into remodel coping too.

Debbie, I'm a designer/builder and we are offering all kind of quality building materials directly from the factory to your project. sometimes more then 50% off the prices in your area.
You'll be amazed how cheap the slate or Granite pavers can be for you, if you can allow 6-8 weeks delivery time. please check www.zapex.co