New Enhance your above ground pool deck

When you have an in-ground pool the deck is right there and you rarely have to think about it, but with an above ground pool, there is rarely a deck -- sometimes the pool is just sitting in the middle of the yard with only a ladder to get in and out or a small deck area.

A great way to make your pool blend into the natural landscape of your backyard and become a more welcome fixture is by building a deck. A deck for your above ground pool will enhance the pool experience, make it more easily accessible and add to the ambiance of your backyard.

With a deck wrapped around your above ground pool you can disguise the walls of the pool itself and that will help it blend into the landscape. A deck is a practical additional because it allows swimmers to relax and lounge around the pool area and you could even install one that is large enough to accommodate an outdoor kitchen area for entertaining.

There are some above ground pool contractors that offer decking systems but these are usually pre-fabricated aluminum systems that won't enhance your backyard landscape. Many pool owners opt to have their decks custom built.

Even if you decide not to spend the money to install a deck at the same time you construct the pool, you still might want to sketch out where it would go and what it would look like so when you do construct it, it will seem like it was planned from the get-go.

Some things to take into consideration are the height of the deck – if you're raised up to pool side level, how much will your neighbors see? If you have a low fence between your yards and a high deck, you want to see if you, sitting on your deck, will be the focal point of the neighbor's view. Also you need to decide what function your deck will serve – will you use it just get in and out of the pool or will you want it to double as an area for entertaining friends and family.

 

It would be cheaper to construct the deck yourself but a good builder or designer can help you brainstorm ideas that will really accentuate both your deck and your pool. You might consider a tiered deck system with exotic wood, built in benches and planters or even a gazebo area.

 

While wood is the most popular – and obvious – choice for your pool deck there are some practical reasons it might not be the best choice because the constant splashes of water treated with pool chemicals could take its toll on the wood – even cedar and redwood, which are popular deck choices. If you have your heart set on a wood deck make certain it is pressure treated and then painted or stained and keep in mind, it will need to be re-treated regularly.

 

Alternative choices for your pool deck could be plastic or a composite lumber mix. Both of these materials can withstand chemical treated water, can blend in with the landscape and look great for the long term.