The cost of having a deck built around an above-ground pool varies greatly depending on a variety of factors, such as the size and type of material you would like to use. On average, a basic deck for a 24-foot round above-ground pool (inclusive of pressure-treated lumber, hardware, and railings) will usually cost around $8,000 to $10,000, depending on the amount of custom work needed.
A more complex deck, using additional materials such as stone or metal accents, might cost closer to $15,000 or higher. Additionally, labor costs will depend on the local market rate and the complexity of the design.
In total, expect to spend at least $10,000 on deck construction but possibly more depending on the complexity of the design and the cost of materials.
Is decking around a pool a good idea?
Yes, decking around a pool can be a great idea! Decking can add a beautiful aesthetic component to the pool and make it a much more inviting space. It can also help protect the pool from debris, insects and animals.
Decking provides a convenient walkway around the pool and can be used to hold furniture or other decor. Additionally, it can provide an area to relax and lounge by the pool. Pool decking can add a professional touch to the pool area, boost the value of your home, and even provide safety features such as slip-resistant surfaces.
Installing pool decking is an investment that’s worth considering for its many benefits.
Can you build a deck that touches the ground?
Yes, you can build a deck that touches the ground. Typically, this type of deck is referred to as a ground-level deck. With a ground-level deck, you can build a deck directly on the ground without any supports.
To do this, you need to clear away any sod or vegetation from the area, level the ground, and then add a base of gravel and sand. You may need to account for frost heave if you live in a cold climate.
After the foundation is in place, you can begin constructing the deck frame, posts, joists, and other deck elements. Finally, you can finish the deck by adding a surface material, such as wood decking or composite decking material.
Ground-level decks can be a great addition to any outdoor living space and they are relatively easy to build with the right DIY experience.
Do pool decks need footings?
Yes, pool decks must have footings. Footings are an important structural component of the pool deck that supports the weight of the deck structure, including the pavers, railings, stairs, and anything else that may be incorporated into the deck.
Proper footings also provide stability to the pool deck, preventing it from shifting or sinking. Footings are typically constructed from material that is resistant to moisture, weathering, and chemical exposure.
The footing should be at least 8 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep, and should be placed against the outside edge of the pool wall. Other specifications about the size, shape and material used for the footings will vary depending on the manufacturer and the structure of the deck, which means that the standards you should follow will depend on the pool deck material you are using.
Additionally, the footings should be reinforced with steel rebar rods and poured concrete to ensure extra strength and stability.
What is to put around pool deck?
When it comes to putting around a pool deck, there are many options. The most common option is to use pavers or stone, although concrete or even pool decking can be used. Paving can be used to create a nice look and also provide a way to control the water runoff.
Stone can also be used to provide a more natural look to a swimming pool area. Concrete is often favored because it is durable, easy to maintain, and relatively inexpensive. Pool decking is an option which many people use, as it creates a more modern look and has different options and colors.
Lastly, deck sealant can be applied to all options to help weatherproof and protect the surface from water and weather damage.
What is the coolest material for pool deck?
The coolest material for pool decks is often either concrete or stamped concrete. Concrete is a low-cost yet durable option that can be easily stained and customized to fit any homeowner’s design preferences.
Stamped concrete is an equally attractive and low-cost option that also resists discoloration, fading, cracking, and other weathering, making it extremely durable and long-lasting. The patterns and designs can range from a simple ashlar slate to a more intricate multicolored paver, offering variety, style, even appearing to have a natural terrain such as flagstone or cobblestone.
The other option for pool decks is pavers. Pavers offer a more upscale and stylish look compared to concrete and can often be more colorful and vibrant. Pavers are more expensive than concrete but can last for decades with little maintenance.
Pavers are also very customizable with patterns and colors, and can further be enhanced with lighting, water features, and fire pits.
Is concrete good as pool decking?
Concrete is often used as a pool decking material, and can be a good option in certain circumstances. Concrete offers a durable and relatively low-cost solution that can adapt to a variety of shapes and forms.
Moreover, it’s typically easy to install and maintain compared to other materials, although it can take on a hot surface in direct sun. Additionally, concrete can be dyed and stamped to give it a decorative finish, and it can sometimes be an environmentally friendly solution since it does not require many resources.
On the downside, concrete is slightly porous, meaning it can absorb water, dirt, and other pollutants which can lead to staining and slipping. Additionally, it can crack if not properly installed or maintained, and if not sealed it can be prone to mold.
The bottom line is that concrete makes a good pool decking option, but it should be properly sealed and maintained to avoid any potential issues.
What can I put around the outside of my pool?
Adding an outdoor pool can be a great way to enjoy the summer months, but it is important to choose the correct materials to put around the outside of your pool. Decorative or functional options might include adding border tiles or pavers around the perimeter of your pool.
Pavers are a great way to provide a finished look and can come in a variety of materials such as cement, brick, stone, or even wood. You can also customize the pattern, color, and texture to customize the area around your pool.
Additionally, porcelain or ceramic tiles can create a unique look and texture around the outside of your pool. This option provides a modern and high-end look. Furthermore, coping, or the edging that helps provide the transition from the pool to the deck, can be implemented in a variety of materials such as stone, concrete, travertine, and others.
All of these materials involve different costs and labor commitments, so it is important to review your budget before choosing which one will work for you. Ultimately, there are a variety of materials you can use to convert your outdoor pool area into a stylish and functional space.
Should I put sand around my above ground pool?
You can consider putting sand around your above ground pool for a number of reasons. Sand provides an additional soft, slip-resistant surface for you and your family to enjoy around the pool and it will absorb the sun’s heat making warmer pool water.
Sand can also help protect the bottom of your pool from the wear and tear of the liner. It provides a layer of protection from liner abuse from things like sharp stones or sticks that may puncture the liner.
Lastly, you can use sand to fill in any low spots around the pool to provide more stability of your pool.
When choosing sand for your pool make sure to use a finer grade of sand such as playground sand as it has been washed and screened to remove any debris like rocks or sticks. Make sure to wear a dust mask when filling the pool with sand and have plenty of water on hand to help settle the sand.
Fill the sand around your pool a few inches deep and tamp down the sand to create an even layer. You can use a buffer to help even it out. Make sure to fill in any gaps or low spots around your pool and tamp down the sand again.
Filling the pool with sand can be a time consuming job, but it will provide extra support and durability for your pool.
Can you surround an above ground pool with dirt?
Yes, it is possible to surround an above ground pool with dirt. However, there are a few things to consider before doing so. First, make sure you choose soil that is dry and well-drained, as waterlogged soil can cause the pool to sink.
It is also important to slope the soil away from the pool to direct any excess water away from the pool. You may also want to consider installing a pool liner to protect the pool from wear and tear, as soil erosion could damage the pool.
Additionally, you should line the base of the dirt to create a barrier between the soil and the pool to prevent chemicals from the soil from entering the pool. Finally, make sure you install a fence around the pool for safety.
Follow these steps and your above ground pool should be nicely surrounded by dirt.
What do you put between above ground pool and concrete?
When installing an above ground pool, it’s important to prepare the site correctly to avoid any damage to the pool and to ensure that the area around the pool is safe. When setting up your pool on concrete, it is necessary to put something between the pool and the concrete to provide a cushion and absorb any moisture and vibration.
The most common option is to use a foam pool pad or mats. These pads are designed to fit around the pool’s base and be secured onto the concrete. The pads are also designed to help create an air gap between the pool and concrete, helping to reduce any accumulated condensation beneath the pool.
Additionally, the foam pads act as a cushion, providing additional protection to the pool’s plastic walls and helping to keep them properly centered and leveled. Other options for cushioning between above ground pools and concrete include sand and gravel, which can act as a leveler.
However, sand and gravel can be difficult and time consuming to install and may require additional labor-intensive effort in order to keep the pool level and chorused. Foam pool pads are considered the simplest and most economical option.
