DIY Deck Building Tips
Are you planning to build a new wooden deck for your home? We’ve got you covered with expert tips and tricks that you must consider before getting started.
Read Full StoryNothing beats dipping in a swimming pool in the summer heat. And if you have a pool in your backyard, it gets even better! In that case, you can swim, cool off or lounge around the pool after work.
But to use your pool best, you must install a perfect pool deck around it. The pool decking determines how well the swimming pool fits in your backyard and provides a platform for you to move around safely. A well-designed deck surface can enhance your backyard oasis’s overall look and functionality.
However, installing a perfect pool deck is challenging, especially if you want to take the DIY approach. That is why we have provided some tips and tricks that you can use to get this project done quickly and conveniently. Whether you’re working with a small swimming pool or a large one, these tips will help you create a deck surface that is both beautiful and functional.
Dive in if you are curious, then!
What Material Should You Use For Pool Decking?
If you have a swimming pool, it is safe to assume you will walk around the pool area barefoot. So, you need to ensure that the surface of your pool deck does not become too hot or slippery. Believe us - you would not want to scorch your feet or fall face-first on the ground when lounging around the swimming pool area.
The material is essential since it helps ensure your pool deck’s safety and usability. Besides, it also determines the overall look and feel of your pool.
Different material types, such as concrete, brick, stone tiles or wood, can be used for pool decks, giving you more options. Concrete is a popular option since it is affordable, easy to maintain and offers a decent degree of safety. However, installing a concrete pool deck can be a reasonably complex task that may take several days to complete, so many people prefer wood, brick or stone tiles for their pool deck.
Wooden decks, in particular, are an excellent option since they are easy to install and relatively safe. This material does not heat up as quickly as stone or brick, which is an additional advantage. We recommend using a protective layer over the wood to withstand elements like rain or snow. In most cases, this will help extend the life of your wooden pool deck.
Pool Decking Installation Tips
You can proceed with the installation once you have finalised the decking material. Below are some tips to help you tackle this project efficiently.
1. Get The Necessary Permits From Local Authorities
When installing a pool deck, obtaining a permit from the local building authority is always a good call. Some communities have stringent regulations about installing solid surfaces over utility lines.
Thus, you won’t have to worry about regulatory issues with these permits. Also, taking care of this aspect before starting the project.
2. Ensure That The Subgrade Is Stable
If you want the pool deck to be levelled and stable, check the subgrade, which is the foundation’s surface.
You must consider the surface gradients or uneven ground features and level them with fill material. If you fail, you will eventually have to deal with surface cracking and shifting issues. Furthermore, you should check this out immediately to prevent any unnecessary delays later on.
3. Build A Proper Foundation
Laying a good foundation is the key to a well-built pool deck. You must ensure the base is stable and filled with suitable foundation material.
Generally, you must prepare the base with sand or gravel for concrete, brick or stone materials. You can also schedule a concrete foundation, which is especially beneficial if you intend to use stone tiles. For wood, you will need to make a floor joist foundation.
4. Include A Slight Slope
During the decking installation, you should ensure the surface has a slight slope for drainage purposes. The slope should face outwards and ideally have a quarter-inch gradient per foot. This will help to remove any excess water or debris from washing back into the pool.
5. Consider Adding Channel Drains
If your pool deck area is quite large, or if the storm drains are located far away from the pool, you can add a drainage channel somewhere on your deck. It will collect and carry the excess water and debris to the nearest drain without messing in your backyard.
6. Factor In The Cost Of Curves
A curved deck design needs more effort and time to install than a square or rectangular deck. The brick, stone or wooden panels must be cut and shaped according to the curves. As a result, the cost of deck installation increases, so you need to consider this aspect while preparing the budget for your project.
Building A Safe & Functional Pool Deck
It doesn’t matter if you are building a new pool and decking or refurbishing an old one - you can follow the above tips. However, you must remove or repair your old decking to refurbish your pool deck.
Afterwards, you can proceed with the new installation, which should take a few days. However, if you don’t have any DIY experience, you might feel unsure about attempting this project by yourself. But there is no need to worry, for we have your back.
At Final Touch Carpentry & Constructions, we have a team of skilled and licensed Sydney builders who can install decking around your pool in no time. And the best part is that you can get this job done reliably and affordably. Give us a call to speak to one of our friendly experts!
