5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Deck for an Above Ground Pool
Above-ground pools have been on the rise since the 1950s and 1960s when they became popular among people who lived in apartments or smaller homes.
Above-ground pools with decks, however, are still not as popular as their in-ground counterparts, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t turn your above-ground pool into an attractive focal point of your backyard décor! With some creative planning, grading, and decking, Can be truly stunning and inviting.
1) Consider the Shape of Your Above Ground Pool
Above ground, pools come in a variety of shapes. You may have many options when it comes to shape, but it’s important that you consider which design would be most aesthetically pleasing for your home and family.
If you already have an above-ground pool, consider whether or not you are happy with its current appearance before deciding on any changes.
2) Choose Solid Wood Over Composite Decks
There are two main types of decks you can choose from composite and wood. Composite decks are made from materials such as recycled plastic, and some might say they look almost identical to wood in terms of coloring and texture.
The big difference lies in the price. Composite decks typically cost much less than their wooden counterparts, but over time that savings may not be worth it if your deck is falling apart due to shoddy craftsmanship.
3) Choose a Simple Design
A deck can be built on top of an above-ground pool in one of two ways. The simplest is to create a platform that rests on top of or against a wall, overhanging lip, or whatever else holds up your above-ground pool.
This will allow you plenty of space for decking and may be sufficient depending on how much you want to incorporate into your design.
If you’re looking for something more extravagant, however, it may be best to sink some posts into your yard and build over them instead. Although they’ll take up more space than flat decks do, they’ll also support virtually any structure and allow you great flexibility in terms of what goes where and how it looks overall.
4) Leave Room For Seating
When you’re designing your above-ground pool deck, don’t forget about seating! An uncomfortable seat will discourage you from enjoying time with family and friends.
So choose a cushioned chair or lounger made of strong materials that are built to last. Also, make sure there is plenty of room on either side of your seats so you can easily get in and out.
And if space allows, consider adding a table so you can set down drinks or snacks when entertaining guests. If possible, position it near a power outlet so you can plug in cell phones or other devices as well.
Above-ground pools with decks need not be boring and they certainly shouldn’t be uncomfortable!
5) Add Stairs Or Steps To Access The Water
One of the most common complaints about above-ground pools is that there is no easy way to get in and out of them.
By adding stairs or steps, you open up your pool space and keep it looking tidy at all times.
If you don’t want to clutter your deck with stairs, consider building a single flight of steps directly into a retaining wall next to your pool. This will make getting in and out less labor-intensive and more enjoyable.
5 Tips to Make Your Above Ground Pool Deck Look Great
If you don’t have the space or budget to install an inground pool, you can still enjoy all the benefits of owning one with an above-ground pool.
However, above-ground pools can be slightly less attractive than inground pools due to their exposed nature and tendency to be placed closer to your home’s main structure.
If you want to look at some examples of stunning above-ground pools that feature decks and other aesthetic touches, read on! You’ll find 5 tips below that will help you make your own deck look great, no matter what type of pool it’s attached to.
Level it Out
It may seem simple, but it’s one of the most important things you can do when trying to build an above-ground pool deck. If your grade is too steep, water will flow into your house every time you turn on your filter.
It’s a hassle and an expensive mistake that can be avoided by leveling out your site. Start by going up and down each side of your yard with a shovel or posthole digger.
Pick the Right Size
Bigger is not always better. Many homeowners opt for an above-ground pool that’s too large for their yard or their family’s needs, which ultimately leads to disappointment.
If you want your above-ground pool deck to look great and be functional, pick a size that will make all of your outdoor space work well together.
Choose the Perfect Materials
Above-ground pools with decks can be made out of a variety of materials, including wood and synthetic boards. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose wisely when you’re planning your above-ground pool deck.
The first thing you should consider is whether or not you want your deck to reflect how much time and money you spent on the pool itself.
If that’s important, then an all-wood deck may be more appropriate; if your focus is on making sure your pool is fully functional with minimal maintenance, then synthetics like plastic or vinyl could serve you better.
Grade it Properly
Before you get your above-ground pool deck installed, have a professional company-grade your yard. The proper grading will help create a natural slope into which you can pour your concrete.
Without it, you’ll either have to settle for an ugly hill or pour more concrete than is necessary. Both of these options are expensive and time-consuming and they may not even work! For example, if you try to pour extra concrete around your above-ground pool deck, it could end up looking like a bowl that has been filled with water.
That’s not exactly what most people are going for when they install their own above-ground pools. If you want yours to look good, have someone professionally grade your yard before installation begins.
Build a Custom Deck
Because above-ground pools are smaller than inground ones, their decks don’t need to be as long or tall. With that in mind, you should have no problem building a deck from pressure-treated wood using simple tools.
By using pressure-treated wood, you’ll also be creating a low-maintenance deck: The chemicals used to treat it will make it last for decades with little upkeep.
Just be sure not to get it too close to your pool’s walls; extra pressure on a damp or wet deck can damage it over time.
