By: Adrian Kinley

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.

The pool decking is not just to allow access to the water. It will be a place to relax and watch the action in the pool. A place to have parties and maybe include a patio area for BBQ's and outdoor dining.

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.

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.

Other Pool Decking Materials

Vinyl, aluminum and plastic decking are all now available for pool decking. The fact that there is no danger of rot setting in or termite attacks due to being constantly getting wet makes them a good choice. Couple that with the fact they are virtually maintenance free and it is easy to understand why they are becoming more popular.

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

Building your own decking is great for the wallet but make sure you are up for the task before you start and make sure you have the relevant permissions required from your local building and planning office.
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