How to Build a Wood Deck Around an Inground Pool

Do you have a pool in your backyard? If so, do you want to know how to build a wood deck around it? You can use these steps as a guide for building a side or rear yard deck.

The ground must slope down from the house towards the pool and at least one foot of clearance under all beams. This will help prevent any rainwater from running into the house during heavy storms. Read on for more information about this project! 

How to Build a Wood Deck Around an Inground Pool

This post will break down everything you need to know about constructing an exterior deck around an inground swimming pool. So, this article is for you. You will learn how to build a wood deck around an inground pool with just one simple trick!

Step to Follow on How to Build a Wood Deck Around an Inground Pool 

Step One: Mark Out Your Pool

Before you begin to build your deck, you’re going to need to draw out where it will sit to ensure that everything is properly lined up. While the pool’s position will determine most measurements for this step, some aspects entirely depend on preference or style.

For instance, if you want extra seating space around the pool for guests, additional planters, or extended decking sections, mark those out now. Likewise, if you want to use the existing stairs to access the pool, you’ll need to measure them and build around them accordingly.

Once you have everything marked out where you’d like it to go, be sure to write down all the measurements so you can use them when laying out your deck boards.

Step Two: Excavate for Your Deck

Depending on your backyard and the amount of digging required, this process may take a long time. If you have to go through a fair bit of dirt or pavement, consider renting a power auger from your local home improvement store to make the job easier.

Before you remove any dirt, be sure to mark out your deck’s measurements with spray paint. This way, there is no confusion when placing the frame into place once you begin digging.

Excavating for  Pool Deck

When digging, be sure to keep the frame safely on the ground so as not to cause any structural instability. In addition, it’s recommended to place scrap pieces of wood under each corner or brace to reduce the risk of it falling over while digging is taking place.

Step Three: Install Your Deck Frame

Once you’re satisfied with your frame’s position and the dirt has been removed, it’s time to set the frame into place. For this step to be as simple as possible, make sure everything is level.

For those of you who have a basement underneath where your new deck will sit, you’ll want to make sure there is enough clearance for the frame. In most cases, it’s recommended to dig a few inches below where your deck will sit to ensure there are no obstructions.

To Set the Frame Into Place, Make Sure Everything Is Level.

Once everything is level, and you’re satisfied with the position of your frame, brace each corner with 2x4s. This way, you can be sure it won’t shift during the next step.

Step Four: LayOut deck Boards

Once the frame is set in place, it’s time to layout your deck boards. If you have a specific pattern or style you want them to lay in, consider marking each board with paint or chalk, so they line up perfectly when installed.

A popular choice for decking material is composite decking. This type is both low-maintenance and affordable, making it an ideal choice for pool decks. Once you have laid out each board how you’d like them to look when installed, begin by attaching the boards around the frame with screws or nails.

Stagger Board Pattern for Deck

Depending on your deck material, you may need to drill pilot holes to prevent the decking from splitting while being installed. In the case of composite decking, you’ll likely want to use a countersink bit. This way, there are no rough or sharp edges that might cut bare feet while strolling along the deck.

Step Five: Cut Out for Your Deck Handles

If possible, try to do this step before laying out your deck boards. This way, you can ensure your deck handle is perfectly aligned with the rest of the deck boards. In order to install a deck handle, it’s necessary to cut out an opening into which it will sit.

Simply measure where you’d like the handle and use a circular saw or reciprocating saw to cut the hole. Once completed, place the handle into its hole and use wood filler to seal around it.

Once the handle is set into place, fill in any gaps or holes with wood filler. Once dry, you can begin laying out your deck boards and staining them if you choose. This will help in how to build a wood deck around an inground pool.

Step Six: Stain Your Deck Boards

Since this is often the final step of the decking process, you’ll want to ensure it’s done somewhere where you won’t get any staining on your grass or plants. An excellent place to do this would be in your driveway or garage.

Since this project can get a little messy, be sure to lay down cardboard or drop cloths so as not to stain your garage floor. In addition, consider purchasing stain-blocking gloves to keep your hands clean during the process.

The boards must be completely dry before applying a second coat for your staining to look its best. This can be done by covering your deck boards with heavy plastic and allowing them to dry for several days before staining again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Put a Wood Deck Around an Inground Pool?

You can put a wood deck around an in-ground pool, but you need to take care of some things before you start.

  • You will need to ensure that the wood is pressure treated. Otherwise, it could rot and become hazardous for people and pets.
  • The wood needs to be installed on top of concrete or another solid surface because if it’s not, then water from the pool will seep through and cause the wood to swell and warp, which will require replacement at a higher cost.
  • The deck should be waterproofed so that water doesn’t get inside during rain or snowstorms or when you are swimming in your pool and create a hazard for yourself as well as others who may come into contact with the wet area near the deck.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Deck Around a Pool?

It will cost you about $2,200 to build a deck around a pool.

Let’s Break Down the Expenses of Building a Deck Around a Pool :

  • Building materials like lumber and screws for the frame of the deck would cost about $600.
  • The labor would cost about $900 due to time spent on site and constructing the frame.
  • Cost of electricity is estimated at $350-400/month or $360-$420/year based on usage per month or year (based on 12 hours per day).

How Large Should a Deck Be Around a Pool?

The size of a deck around a pool depends on the shape and size of the pool. The best way to determine how large your deck should be is by calculating the total surface area of your pool.

If you have an above-ground pool, then multiply its length by its width to get the total surface area in square feet. If you have an inground pool, then measure its length times its depth to get the total surface area in square feet.

Once you know how many square feet of decking is needed, you can calculate how much wood will be needed based on a rough estimate of how many square feet each piece of lumber will cover. To determine how many pieces of lumber will be required for your project, divide the number of square feet by 12 inches (the standard width for most 2×4 boards).

What Is the Cheapest Pool Decking?

The cheapest pool decking is often concrete, metal, or plastic. If you are looking for the cheapest pool decking option, then you should consider using recycled materials such as wood and old pallets.

Are Pavers or Concrete Better for Pool Decking?

Paver decking is one of the most popular and widely used pool decking materials. It is relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and can withstand much wear and tear.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are some things you can do to make sure that your decking project goes smoothly. A deck is a large investment, and it’s important to take the time upfront to plan it out carefully. You don’t want any surprises later on!

For more information on how to build a wood deck around an inground pool, check out our blog post here. And as always, if you have comments or questions, please leave them below in the comment section of this page to help answer for you!

Learn more about: Effective Methods for Cleaning your Home’s Pool

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