All About Above Ground Pool Decks

With a home-owned pool, it is usually wanted if not needed to have an above ground pool deck. Often it makes the area look better, is a fun place to just relax, and makes it easier to get into the pool. Above ground pool decks also increase the value of your home even though they are very affordable and for most budgets are accommodating.

If you are a potential buyer of above ground pool decking you should realize that these decks come in many different styles. Above ground pool deck plans often include different materials that can be used for a deck such as resin material or pre-cut wood. The main two different types of decks are splash decks and side decks. Splash decks are decks that go all the way around a pool. They are called splash decks because any splash from the pool will land on the deck. These decks look very appealing and add a good look to a pool as they hide the outside of the pool. A side deck also looks great; these are decks that are only on one side of the pool and are usually a raised rectangular area. These are nice because they are often have a bigger area than the splash decks and it is a more open place for people to sit and relax or tan. Splash decks are also often extended to be a hybrid of the two, these are nice because there is now a large area that is not just for the pool, but it looks nice and is an open space to do whatever the owner wishes.

Above ground swimming pool decks do require maintenance for anyone who wishes to keep them looking fresh and well kept. This requires a variety of different tasks. Since many pool decks have ridges where the planks lie amongst one another, they need to be swept since leaves and other organic matter can fall between them and get stuck. Sweeping your deck will keep the wood from rotting or becoming damaged since organic materials often contain moisture that can become trapped between them and the deck. Also, staining needs to come into play at least once a year. This is even more important than sweeping since it is the main regulator of the dependability for wood built decks.

When staining your pool deck there are some things to be aware of, and some things that you need to make sure that you do. The first and most important thing to do is to make sure that you take your time with every detail. This insures that you don’t over stain or leave blotches in any areas. A deck with many blotches or incorrectly stained areas can be almost as bad as a deck with no staining at all. Also, stay away from the cheaper brands of stain. Even paying up to 50 dollars more for stain would be worth it because using an efficient bran will save you from restating or a damaged deck; which will cost you more in the long run.

photo credit: shaggyshoo

Above Ground Pool Decks: What to Consider Before You Buy

Above ground swimming pools are a great way to relax in the summer when you just need to unwind after a long day at work. Above ground pool decks are one of the best things that you can add on your pool. If you’re thinking about getting one soon, then you’ll want to read this article.

We’ll discuss some of the main things that you’ll want to think about when you’re choosing an above ground pool deck, including safety issues and maintenance. After reading this article, you should be able to find the right deck for your pool.

Safety Issues for Above Ground Pool Decking
Some of the first things that you want to think about when you’re considering which deck to get is how safe is it. Here is a list of things to think about when you’re comparing decks:

• Construction materials – what is the deck made of? If you’re not getting above ground pool deck designs so that you can specify the materials that your deck will be made of, you’ll want to take a look at how the decking will hold up to exposure to UV and pool chemicals. You also want to be sure that the materials are designed to hold up to use over time, and have a good stress rating. After all, they’re going to be holding your and your loved ones’ weight on a regular basis. If you are getting your own above ground pool deck plans made, then be sure to discuss the materials with your planner.
• Gate – Make sure that stairways up to the deck come with a gate that can be locked. This is essential if you have little kids to protect and keep out of the pool when you’re not there.
• Railing – You want to be sure that when you slip, you are going to end up head first in the pool. A railing will help to keep you out of the pool in such an event.
• Hardware – Are the connecting joints and hardware that does the connecting made of high quality and long lasting materials? You don’t want your support structure giving out on you while you’re up on the deck. Remember that the pool water will likely be dripping down on all surfaces of the deck. So they’ll need to be able to stand up against pool chemicals as well.

How to Maintain Above Ground Pool Decks

If you have an above ground pool with deck, you’re going to want to take a look at the manufacturer’s suggestions on how to clean and maintain your deck. But in most cases, rinsing the decking with clean water once or twice throughout the season, and then one last time when you’re shutting down the pool is usually a good rule of thumb to follow.

You’ll also want to inspect your deck periodically, or have it inspected, as the years go by, to make sure that no maintenance issues have occurred. And if they have, you’ll be able to get them taken care of quickly before the problem worsens. A good schedule for this would be to do it at the beginning of every season as you start to get your pool ready for the coming swimming season.

Conclusion

Now that you know some of the issues that you’ll want to be thinking about with respect to above ground pool decks, you’ll be able to make a great decision about which one to go with to keep you family safe and swimming all season!

photo credit: Gamma-Ray Productions