Do you have an above ground pool in your backyard and are looking for a way to dress it up? Are you thinking about building a deck around your pool with the added bonus of providing additional space for guests or family members to relax and enjoy? Covering an above ground pool with a deck can be a great way to add aesthetics and functional appeal, but doing so requires extra planning.
Maybe it’s been an eyesore for a while – a metal port protruding from the one spot on your lawn that mostly serves as home to dirt and weeds. But rather than get rid of it, why not transform it into something even more beautiful by creating a seamless deck around the outside of it? With this project, you can customize your outdoor oasis! Read on to find out how to cover above ground pool with deck.
What Will You Need?
Before covering the aboveground pool with a deck, you must have the right tools and materials. Here are some of the essentials:
- Pressure treated wood
- Circular saw
- Drill Bit
- Screws
- Leveler or spirit level
- Decking boards (if desired)
- Measuring tape
Once you have all your materials, you can start constructing the deck.
10 Easy Steps on How to Cover Above Ground Pool With Deck
Step 1: Measure Your Pool Area
The first step in covering above ground pool with a deck is getting the measurements for your project. Using a measuring tape, take note of the length and width of your pool so that you can determine how much wood you need to build the frame. Once the measurements are taken, make a sketch of how you plan to set up the frame and how much lumber you need for each part.
Step 2: Cut the Wood
Using your circular saw, cut pressure-treated wood into 8-foot lengths. If necessary, use a leveler or spirit level to ensure that the wood is even before cutting. If desired, it will also be necessary to cut wood for the platform and stairs.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
Now it’s time to assemble the frame! Using screws, attach two 8-foot pieces at a right angle in order to form a corner post for your deck. Create more corner posts as needed until you have formed an entire square or rectangular frame around your pool. Make sure all corners are perfectly aligned using a leveler or spirit level.
Step 4: Attach the Decking Boards
Once the frame is set up, you can start attaching decking boards to cover the above-ground pool with the deck completely. Start at one corner and attach each board, making sure that they are evenly spaced and perfectly aligned. Continue until all the boards have been attached around the entire frame.
Step 5: Secure the Deck
Secure your deck by using screws or nails to attach it directly to your pool’s top rail. Ensure there are no gaps between your deck and pool wall, as this can cause water leakage or other problems in the future. Don’t forget to seal any screws or nails you use.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Once you have securely attached the deck, it’s time to add the finishing touches. You can add a custom railing for added safety and decoration or even a few planters with beautiful flowers around your pool area. Don’t forget to trim off any excess wood and seal the entire structure using a waterproof sealer.
Step 7: Clean Up
Before taking a step back to admire the cover above the ground pool with the deck, ensure all tools are cleaned up properly, and all nails and screws are accounted for. If you find any leftovers, discard them immediately to avoid injury or further damage to your deck. You can also use a broom or vacuum to clean up any debris that may have been scattered during construction.
Step 8: Add Accessories
Now that covering above ground pool with the deck is complete, it’s time to add accessories. Place a few chairs around the area for your family members to relax and enjoy. Add some colorful cushions and umbrellas for added comfort and style. And don’t forget to add a few lights around the area to extend your fun even after dark!
Step 9: Enjoy Your Creation
You’ve done it! Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and admire the covered above ground pool with deck – the perfect outdoor oasis for you and your family. So pull up a chair, pour yourself something cold on those hot summer days, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Step 10: Maintenance and Care
Ensure that the cover of the ground pool with the deck is well-taken care of to ensure its longevity. After each use, make it a point to clean the deck thoroughly. Apply sealer or stain every few years in order to give the wood added protection against moisture and sun exposure.
Following these steps will help you learn how to cover above ground pool with a deck in no time. With the right tools, materials, and a bit of patience, you’ll be able to create your very own outdoor oasis! Good luck with your project!
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Take account of the size of your above ground pool when designing a deck. Make sure it’s large enough to provide adequate support for the cover’s weight and any people standing on it.
- Try to use non-slip materials for your decking surface, such as textured composite or treated wood, to prevent slips or falls when people are getting on or off the pool cover.
- Install a door on the side of the deck near the pool so you can access it easily to check your cover’s security before starting a swim session.
- Make sure there is enough space around the edges of your above ground pool where you will place your deck so that you don’t have anything obstructing its placement.
- Use additional supports like poles to ensure your deck remains stable and secure when the pool cover is installed. This will also help prevent buckling and movement of your deck as people move around.
These tips and tricks will help you make sure that you build a safe, secure deck that can effectively protect your above ground pool while also providing more space for people to enjoy during swimming sessions. With careful planning, the right materials, and these additional tips in mind, you’ll be able to create a great above ground pool covering solution!
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid building a deck too close to the pool. It is important to allow adequate clearance around the pool’s edge so that you can enter and exit safely.
- Avoid using pressure-treated wood for your decking material, as it may contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful if ingested.
- Avoid covering up vents or drains on the side of your pool, as this can prevent proper circulation of water and air in the pool.
- Avoid using nails or screws when attaching materials to your above ground pool as these can create weak points which can become damaged easily over time.
- Avoid placing objects such as furniture, grills, or plants directly onto the deck surface, as they could cause damage to the underlying structure of your deck.
By following these tips, you can build a safe and attractive deck around your above ground pool that will provide years of enjoyment. With the right materials and proper construction techniques, you can easily create a beautiful outdoor oasis where you can entertain family and friends in style!
Can an Above-ground Pool Sit on a Deck?
Yes, an above-ground pool can sit on a deck. However, it is important to consider the size and weight of the pool before doing so. It must be ensured that the deck is strong enough to support the combined weight of the water and people who will be using the pool.
Additionally, you should ensure that no vents or drains are covered by your deck, as these need to remain accessible for proper circulation of water and air in your pool.
Lastly, ensure all materials used for constructing the deck are non-slip and won’t cause any slips or falls when getting on or off the cover.
By following these tips and taking into consideration how much weight your deck can handle, you can safely place your above-ground pool onto it and enjoy the outdoor oasis of your dreams!
Conclusion
Building an above ground pool can feel like a daunting task, but with enough research and resources, you’ll be able to construct a beautiful and functional deck for your pool. Remember the various key considerations when designing your pool decks, such as type of materials, shape, size, and placement. With all these factors covered, you will surely end up with a beautiful and sturdy structure that will last for many years.
Whether you need it for entertaining or just plain enjoyment, an above ground pool remains an excellent option – even if you build it with a deck on top! Take the time and careful consideration needed to tailor it best to suit your specific needs, such as getting advice from experts in the field where necessary.
Hopefully, the article on how to cover above ground pool with deck has been useful in helping you to understand how to approach the task best. Have fun and good luck!