Pool Decking - What's Best For You

It's an exciting time when you are planning to have a swimming pool built in your backyard. There are lots of options to consider; size, heated or not, enclosed or open etc. People are often so excited (granted, with good reason) that they neglect to give any thought to what happens when the contractors leave. Chances are the garden will need a complete re-landscape job and of course there is the question of pool decking.

When deciding on a deck to finish off your new swimming pool remember your decking is not there just as a means of entering and leaving your swimming pool. It will be a place to relax on a lounger or to entertain guests while you watch the kids playing in the 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

For above ground pools, good old timber is still the favorite type of deck. Pressure treated softwood will not last as long as hardwood when it is constantly being subjected to splashing water so I always suggest hardwood if the client is adamant he requires the pool decking in timber. Above ground pools can be decked all the way around if space and budget allows, or can be simply decked at one end with access via a stairway.

Other Pool Decking Materials

Other choices are now becoming available when it comes to pool decking. Aluminum, vinyl and plastic are all recent newcomers on the block. A deck built around your pool in one of these materials requires no maintenance, won't ever rot or get bothered by insects attracted by the dampness of a wooden deck.

While these types of deck are a long way from replacing wood in the typical patio deck, when it comes to pool decking these type of decks have distinct advantages which are hard to ignore when it comes to pool decking. A wash down every now and then with the hose is about all you will ever have to do to this type of deck.

Do It Yourself Decking

You can save yourself a a small fortune by building your own deck or patio area. If you are competent with a tape measure, saw and drill you may wish to give the option some serious thought. Before the shovel hits the ground though, find out if there are any building regulations you are rquired to abide by in your town.

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