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The Types Of Pool Decking Available
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.
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.
Concrete pool decking is often the choice when the pool is of the in ground type. This is because it can be shuttered and poured at the same time as the pools concrete is laid. This cuts on man hours and cost and is a good method to choose as the deck is part of the pools structure, adding strenth to the whole design. A patio area can, and wherever possible should, also be incorporated. Concrete is a great material and can be formed into any shape required. It can also be left “as is” or finished with a none slip tile or paver. Pool decking for above ground pools is always built after the pool is has been constructed.
Traditional pool decking
For some homeowners, nothing beats a proper wooden deck, specially around an above ground pool. I always recommend hardwood when doing a pool decking. It is of course, more expensive but will cope so much better with the constant splashing, wet feet etc. With the above ground pool you can just build a raised deck at one end of the pool to allow for access, or if budget and space allow, surround the entire pool. Remember to allow space for a stairway when considering this option.
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
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.