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Swimming pool decking is what often makes pools the special treat that they are. Not only do swimming pool decks provide a safe and designated area for summer fun, but they also emphasize a pool’s natural beauty — consequently making the best deck of course both functional and aesthetic. This page introduces some pool deck design basics, uses, construction, and decking material choices.
Basic Design and Uses
Every swimming pool deck consists of footing, vertical supports, horizontal supports, joists, and railings and/or steps. How these items are positioned depends on the deck’s overall design, but you’ll find all of these elements in any arrangement.
This is why planning is so important. Since a deck’s design can influence the position of its elements, you’ll want to consider how the swimming pool decking will be used (partying, barbecues, relaxing, etc.), where it will be located within the landscape of your property, what kind of view you want to provide, and safety issues.
Construction
The latter issue above brings us to our next point: restrictions. Before building a deck, you’ll need to design it around existing utility or drainage lines and then consult your local building commission for permits and additional rules. With your plans, materials list, and estimated costs in hand, you may face limits on the size or height of your deck.
Decking Material Choices
In fact, your community may even limit your choice of materials. These limitations don’t exist without due cause however — they really save lives. In essence, swimming pool decks must be built with durable materials that are resistant to moisture, decay, and insects. Redwood and Cedar make excellent choices since they’re naturally resistant to these things. Just don’t be surprised if you have to readjust your strategy.
Maintenance
The work required for maintaining a deck can influence your design decisions as well. For example, you might want to add small rocks and gravel below the deck to discourage weed growth. Or you might decide that maintaining a wooden deck is too much work and that a different material — like cement — would better accommodate your limited schedule.
At the design stage, it’s important to remember that you’re only throwing ideas around and that you haven’t committed to anything. This gives you the unique opportunity to ask some important “What if” questions that could prompt you to think of ideas you might not have considered before.
