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Prefab Decks For Above Ground Pools

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Above Ground Pool Landscaping + Patio Ideas

Part 4 Above Ground Pool Deck Construction

Dont want to build a deck for your above ground pool? Want a more natural, organic look in your backyard? Instead of opting for a deck, consider enhancing the area around your above ground pool with a patio or . Above ground pool patios and landscaping differ from decks in that they are ground-level with all walls of the pool exposed. Here are the five main types of above ground pool patios:

  • Gravels and Rocks
  • Concrete and Pavers
  • What is the best thing to put around an above ground pool? Lets analyze each option to determine which one is right for your outdoor living space.

    Prefab Or Pre Made Above Ground Pool Decks

    It’s getting close to pool season once again for much of the country. Many of us are readying our pools for the warm summer months ahead while others are considering getting an above ground swimming pool for the first time. But one topic that comes up more now than in years past is above ground pool decks. We have covered the pre built decks in the past, but their popularity is growing and we should cover this topic once again. Pre Made above ground pools decks are simply deck systems that have been engineered for use around an above ground swimming pool. Their generic nature allows them to be adapted to most any brand above ground pool. They are assembled and slid up next to the pool for a tidy fit. And thanks to their flexibility, these pre made pool decks work with practically any size above ground pool.

    Are Prefab Pool Decks Safe?

    These decks are well made and can support many people on them at one time. All deck models are heavy duty and are constructed with a steel framework capable of supporting up to 1400lbs. on the larger models. Also all pre fab pool deck systems include both sets of steps. These are from ground to deck and from deck to water. They use steps not ladders for entering and exiting the pool water safely and easily, while the outside step incorporates a self closing latching gate for safety. Stylish handrail fencing around the entire deck and deck flooring is made from vinyl for superior weather resistance and great looks.

    Above Ground Pool With Wooden Deck And Safety Fence

    Although this pattern makes me a wee bit dizzy, this above ground pool deck design is quite nicely done. Pre-assembled wall panels go up quickly and provide some pool privacy and safety.

    This design allows the pool to be built on-grade, while having a walk-out or walk-up pool. Be sure to design safety into the pool deck and install a sturdy fence gates with self-closing hinges and self-locking latches.

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    What Is The Best Material For An Above Ground Or Semi

    The decking material you choose for your above ground or semi-inground pool deck will impact the look and feel of your backyard as well as maintenance costs over time. Now that youve seen some of the different styles of decking, lets dive into the different types of decking materials to find one that works for your backyard.

  • Aluminum Decking
  • Install The Deck Framing

    Resin Decking For Above Ground Pools  Decks Ideas
  • 1Install 2″ x 6″ treated deck supports around the perimeter of the pool.
  • The deck supports should be screwed into the side of each interior pier that faces the pool.
  • Screw the supports to the interior piers using 2-1/2 inch deck screws.
  • Use a level to make sure that the supports are level. Also, use a square at the corners to make sure that the supports are square.
  • 2Install another set of 2″ x 6″ deck supports to mark the outside perimeter of the deck.
  • Screw the supports to the outer side of the exterior piers using 2-1/2 inch deck screws.
  • Confirm the supports are level and square, and make adjustments as needed.
  • 3Toenail joist hangers vertically to the interior of the supports using 3-1/2 inch 16d galvanized nails. Hang one joist hanger every 16 inches on the insides of both deck supports so that the joists will be perpendicular to the supports. The midpoint of each joist hanger should be 16 inches on center. This means the middle of the 2″ x 6″ joist board is on the 16 inch mark.XResearch source
  • 4Place 2″ x 6″ treated wood deck floor joists into the joist hangers. Toenail the hangers to the joists using 10d galvanized nails.XResearch source
  • 5Install 2″ x 4″ diagonal braces between the piers if the deck is more than 30 inches high. The braces should run between the piers from interior to exterior as well as parallel to the sides of the pool.
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    Bracing Between Posts And Beams

    Free standing decks will require bracing between posts and from posts to beams. This eliminates any sway and creates a finished structure that is rock solid.

    You can see from this photo showing the underside of the deck framing how the beam is braced to opposing support posts and then each post along adjacent beams is braced in the alternating direction. This deck will never move and that is critically important given that an above ground pool is in close proximity to the decking.

    Above Ground Pool With Ipa Wood Deck

    When you have a view like this, the pool has to be special. Hunter Pools of Australia perched this pool just perfectly, and then wrapped it with fine hardwoods like Ipa wood, which has outstanding resistance to rot and weather.

    Another safety feature is the railing. This is required for suspended decks to keep your guests and pets safe. A complete deck like this also allows pool owners to install a safety pool cover for off-season use.

    You May Like: How To Diy An Inground Pool

    Brian Is Probably No Different Then You

    Brian just wanted to have a nice attractive, solid deck to compliment their above ground pool and he wanted to do it on his own in order to save a few dollars.

    But just as importantly, Brain wanted to know that the deck would stand the test of time and be stable around the pool. And, that is exactly what he got.

    A big bonus was that Brian didn’t need to break his back digging holes and he avoided the cost and mess of using cement. And best of all it took less than an hour to have all six footings in the ground and he was ready to build.

    Combination Decks For Above Ground Pools

    Pool deck for above ground intex pool

    Looking for something with a little more pizzazz than the full-surround or side deck? Combine styles for a custom look. Combination decks are limited only by your imagination. Some ideas are multi-level terraced decks or using a bridge to connect expansive areas!

    Here are some of our favorite combination decks:

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    About Above Ground Pool Decks

    Instead of spending $20,000 to install an in-ground pool, an above ground pool with deck is often a better option.Budget aside, building an in-ground pool sometimes isnt always option when you factor in soil conditions, terrain issues, and zoning restrictions.If you already own an above-ground pool, you may be looking to upgrade the appearance of your backyard without spending a fortune.You cannot enjoy your above-ground pool to the fullest until its surrounded by a wood deck.Imagine having a fun-in-the-sun place for kids, family, and friends to swim, sunbathe, dine, or just hang out.

    Installing The Posts And Piers

  • 1Install the precast concrete pier footings on the top of the ground. To support your deck, purchase precast concrete piers with sockets that accept 4″ x 4″ treated wood posts. Most places in the U.S. allow this type of construction, but verify with a local inspector that this is acceptable. Set them up as follows:XResearch source
  • Place the piers at the exact locations you marked for your posts.
  • Check two sides of the pier with a level. Keep adjusting the ground until the footing is level in both directions.
  • 2Set a 4″ x 4″ post into the opening in the top of the concrete piers. Lay a 4-foot level across the top of the pool cap and use the level to mark a line on each of the 4″ x 4″ posts.XResearch source
  • 3Remove the posts from the piers.
  • Below the line that you just drew, measure and draw another line. The distance between the 2 lines should equal the sum of the width of the pool cap plus 1-1/2inches for the 2″ x 6″ decking, 5-1/2 inches for the 2″ x 6″ floor frame, and an additional 1/2 inch for expansion.
  • Cut the posts to the length given by the second line that you marked.
  • Place the posts back inside the piers.
  • Also Check: What Pools Are Open In San Antonio

    Should You Hire A Professional Deck Builder Or Diy

    The first, and biggest, decision you have to make is whether you want to try your hand at building an above-ground pool deck yourself, or if it makes more sense to hire a contractor. Consider your construction skill level, the amount of time you have to complete the project, and your budget. No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of tutorials and resources online, such as our . You can also easily find a contractor near you.

    Above Ground Pool Decks

    Prefabricated Deck Kits For Above Ground Pool

    This is a topic that we get a lot of calls about so I am going to tell your options and elaborate a little bit on each. There are pre-fab pool decks and there are custom built pool decks with pros and cons to both types, so hopefully this will clear up some questions that you may have. Let me first say we dont sell or build any decks for backyards or swimming pools but we do put together pre-fab decks kits if someone needs one assembled. If you want a custom deck built we typically can send you to a reputable company that can do this for you.

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    A Project Like This Is Within Your Reach

    We feature real customers that placed their confidence in us and used the Deck Foot Anchor and took the time to reach out and contact us to tell us about their experience. Hopefully this case study has helped you out.

    It’s alright to feel excited. You should be. This kind of a project is within your reach. Now go build that deck!

    Everything you ever wanted to know about the deck foot anchor…

    I’m A Believer

    I built a deck for my son earlier this summer in Columbus, Ohio using your Deck Foot product. I LOVE the Titan Deck Footers. And they were every bit as easy to install as your videos indicate, and the deck is perfectly level and solid. I’m a believer!

    Rusty Allen, Columbus, OH

    Would Take an F5 Tornado…

    I wanted to let you know that we received the shipment of Titan Deck Footings and have begun construction on our deck. Thus far I am VERY pleased with your product. I think it would take an F5 tornado to rip up what Ive built so far. 🙂 Seriously, I cant thank you enough. Your deck footings have saved me countless hours and effort.

    Eric Tucker – MA

    Definitely Use Them Again

    Easy installation into clay. 20 min for 3 deck foot anchors. Besure to remove sod and add gravel to LEVEL ground. After that wascomplete it was simple to drill down the post part and then ratchet thenut tight.

    I was using them on a small 10’x8′ deck. I used a small post 21″ to hold a beam for the joist.

    It is solid and secure.

    Chris Collins – Waterloo, ON

    Very Slick Idea

    How Much Pool Deck Do You Want

    A common size for a pool deck is a three-section fan deck that covers enough room for several people to use. On a round pool, it would follow the contour of your pools top rails for as many rails as you want to cover.

    Another question to ask yourself is: how will you use a pool deck around your pool? Plan out what you want to do on the deck. Will you be using it just to get in and out of the pool? Or will you want to add lounges or a table and chair set? What about large planters, speakers, or maybe an outdoor fire pit?

    Our above ground pool deck kits are prefab resin kits with everything you need to add steps to walk up to the deck and into the pool. We have deck kits in 5 ft x 5 ft square and a 5 ft x 10 ft. Another choice is the 5 x 13.5, 2 section pool deck kit.

    Read Also: How Much Inground Pool Cost

    Connecting Beams To Support Posts And Joists To Beams

    Nice beam to post trick

    To really make the entire deck structure strong, Brian notched a rabbet cut out of each 6×6 post and set the 2×8 beams on the flat cut.

    This transfers all the weight of the deck directly onto the post and it is the right way to build. The ½” carriage bolts and washers are the final piece in the puzzle and then secure the beam to post.

    Since this is a free standing or “floating” deck, the structure should be built to remain stable and rigid and merely rest on the below it.

    stronger than a locomotive!

    Rather than merely “toe-nailing” the joists to the beams, joist to beam clips were used on both sides of the beam as you can see in this photo from underneath the deck.

    Brian may be a developing carpenter but his attention to detail from his automotive and mechanical skills comes through here. He built this above ground pool to last in every way.

    When Installing Your Pool Deck Be Careful

    HOW TO Build the Best Deck for Your Above Ground Pool
    • DONT install the deck in frequently wet areas. Use terra firma dry land.
    • DONT build the deck right on top of your top rail if you use a winter cover.
    • DO take your time with the instructions, and you will build it to last.
    • DONT rest any part of the deck against the pool, as it will weaken the pools integrity.
    • DONT make the deck much taller than the pool. Its hard to find very tall ladders.
    • DO install the deck area on the side closest to the house.
    • DONT block the full view of the pool.

    If you get a wooden pool deck, you have different options of entering the pool. Deck to pool ladders use deck flanges to secure the ladder to the deck. A much better option are resin walk-in steps. These offer a gentler way to enter into the pool, especially for children and the elderly. Our resin pool deck kits include steps on both sides of the water, for easy, safe access. A ladder is a must for pool safety.

    Whichever type of pool deck you choose, check with your local building department to see if there are code requirements involved where you live. Building a wooden deck usually needs a permit and inspection. You can usually find the information by searching your countys or citys .gov website for terms like above ground swimming pool decks.

    Also Check: Do It Yourself Round Above Ground Pool Deck Plans

    How To Design & Build An Above

    So, youve finally decided to break ground for a new above-ground pool. Congratulations! Chances are, if youre installing a new pool, youll likely want a beautiful new deck to accompany your latest backyard acquisition. However, designing a deck for an above-ground pool is a little different than designing a deck that exists off the side of your home or patio.

    Before you cannonball into the deep end of above-ground pool ownership and building a deck, its important to consider some of the hidden costs and plan accordingly. This way, you can set aside an ample budget for your project and head off any future problems at the pass.

    Six Years Later A Durable Long Lasting Post To Deck Connection

    This surface mounted post anchor, the Titan Wood Post Anchor, was a perfect and easy solution for anchoring the railing posts to the decking. No notching the deck boards around each post saved Brain a ton of time and it also means the ends of the deck boards are not cut and therefore compromised to weather conditions.

    A flat 2×8 blocking board was secured in the joist bay below each post and posts spacing came out to around 5′-4″. The manufacturer states 6′ on center is the maximum for residential jobs.

    Read Also: How To Keep Your Pool Clean

    Simple But Classic Looking Aluminum Balusters Caps & Connectors

    If you are trying to achieve a classic look without breaking the bank, do what Brian did.

    Here you see he used 3/4″ diameter black aluminum balusters and black solar post caps. He also used turned 4×4 posts which added a bit more elegance to the final appearance.

    Brain installed these surface mounted posts with the Titan Wood Post Anchor.

    How To Build An Above

    Prefabricated Deck Kits For Above Ground Pool : Above Ground Pool Deck

    New building codes addressing decks around pools should also be considered. The maximum gap between the decking and the pool coping is generally 3/4 inch. Slip resistance, gaps between boards and slope of the deck may also be regulated depending on the local codes. These design requirements should also be considered for any deck adjacent swimming pools or hot tubs, whether in or above ground.

    Ideally, the pool deck should be built directly under the lip of the pool edge. It is best to set a series of segmented beams and footings about 2′ from the edge of the pool to support around the curved sides. It is a good practice to install joist tape over the top of joists to protect from standing water. Installing a self-closing gate may be required to prevent access for unsupervised children. Installing extra blocking will reinforce the frame because of the added activity and variety of uses on pool decks.

    Read Also: Rectangle Pool With Hot Tub

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