Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Retained (deficit) earnings (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) [Abstract]
Cumulative share repurchases	$ 586.8
Cumulative dividends declared	$ 210.9

Cumulative Share Repurchases since inception of repurchase programs

No definition available.

Name:	pool_CumulativeShareRepurchases
Namespace Prefix:	pool_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant