All About Pool Decks

Summer 2018 is shaping up to be hotter than normal throughout much of the U.S., according to The Old Farmer's Almanac Summer Weather Forecast. As the days get longer and hotter, adding a backyard pool and pool deck provides a fun and relaxing way to stay cool through the sweltering summer.

To create your own poolside oasis, you have two general options - an above ground pool deck or a deck surrounding an in-ground pool.

Above Ground Pool, Or In-Ground?

The choice of adding an above ground pool or one built into the ground comes down to personal preference and budget. Here's how the two pool types stack up on costs, depending on whether you do it as a DIY project or hire a pro for the job:

	DIY	Contractor installed
Above ground pool	$800 - $3,000	$4,000 - $8,000
In-ground pool	$5,000 - $8,000	$30,000 - $50,000

Source: In the Swim blog

Adding A Pool Deck

A big part of the enjoyment of owning a pool is having a pool deck to relax on after your time in the water. To ensure your swimming pool deck will remain safe and strong for years to come, it's important to choose decking that can withstand the high moisture exposure of splash and wet swim suits. With wood fibers fully encapsulated in plastic, MoistureShield composite decking is protected to the core and is durable enough to be installed on the ground, in the ground or under water - making it an ideal option for decks around pools.

Above Ground Pool Deck Ideas

As with installation of your pool, you can build your above ground pool deck as a DIY project, or you can hire a contractor to do the job. Fortunately, decking around pools is no more difficult to build than other free-standing decks. For a simple-to-build option, check out "How to Build a Backyard Pool Deck" by Popular Mechanics. The Decks.com article "How do I Build an Above Ground Pool Deck," also offers building tips and access to free pool deck plans.

As these articles show, decks around pools can be as simple as a rectangle, or as visually unique as a round or hexagonal deck. With many above ground pool deck ideas available online or from your local deck builder, you're sure to find a swimming pool deck that will be the envy of your neighborhood.

Just as an above ground pool deck must be moisture-resistant, so too must decks around in-ground pools. These pool surrounds often are made of stone or tile, but composite decking also works well if you prefer the look of a decked surface. Whichever surfacing option you choose, to help fire up your imagination, check out these "60 Ultra-Luxurious Pools and Decks" from the DIY Network.

Get Ready For Summer

With plans for your pool deck underway, it's time to get ready for all the fun you'll be having this summer. Whether it's some "me time" to work on your suntan, or a get-together with family and friends, your swimming pool deck provides the ideal spot to enjoy the summer.

For more information about installing composite decking for pool applications, visit our Pools page.