image displayed if flash reader not installed
UK Builder  Home Improvement  Planning Permission  Product Reviews  Building Directory  Building Contract  Resources  Contact

Pool Decking - Construct a decking around your swimming pool

 
    More and more people are now having a swimming pool built in the garden. The excitement of planning the pool often means people fall into the trap of not giving the landscaping and pool decking area enough thought.

    Don't think of pool decking as simply a way to get in and out of your pool. Think of it as a means of connecting your indoor living space with your outdoor space. Your new pool will be a great place to have summer parties and BBQ's or to just sit by and relax while watching others in your pool.


    If the swimming pool is in ground the decking area tends to be built at the same time as the pool. If the pool and deck is to be in concrete it is often poured at the same time so that the deck is actually a part of the pools structure. It is then either left as is or can be tiled or have pavers laid on it and can incorporate a patio area for relaxing. You should choose a paver or tile that won't get slippery once it gets soaked. You can get composite swimming pool decking that is none slip and won't rot due to continual exposure to water. The decking for above ground pools is added after the pool is constructed.

    A Traditional Wooden Deck

    Wooden decking is still a favorite for above ground pools due to its natural look and feel. If you decide on a wooden deck it may be best to go for a hardwood. The initial cost is more but it will last a lot longer compared to a pressure treated softwood constantly getting wet. The deck can either just be on one side of your above ground pool or can surround the entire pool. Entrance onto the deck would be via a stairway built into the deck.

    Options To Timber Decks

    There are now other materials on the market competing with timber which include aluminum, plastic and vinyl. There are distinct advantages to all these materials over their timber counterpart. There is no danger of constantly getting wet causing these to rot and they require no maintenance.

    It will still be a while before these alternative decks become more popular than traditional wood when it comes to a normal deck build but around pools it may only be a matter of time. A wipe down with a cloth every now and then and they come up new. You can even buy them with a timber look imprinted into them so you get the best of both worlds.

    Do It Yourself Decking

    If you are handy with a saw, tape measure and the odd power tool then a self build will certainly keep the bank balance looking a lot sweeter. As with any large do it yourself project, check with your local building control officer to find out what specific building regulations apply to your area. Here can find details about building your own decking.