Above Ground Pool Deck Ideas That Just Make Sense
So, heres the thing about above ground poolssome people love em, some people think theyre a bit of an eyesore.
But add the right deck around one, and suddenly youre not just swimmingyoure lounging in your own backyard resort.
Ive seen folks in Auckland (including my mate Jess, whos got one tucked in the corner of her garden) do absolute wonders with a bit of timber, some clever layout, and a whole lotta elbow grease.
Whether youre working with a tight space or going all-out with a full wraparound, a solid deck changes the whole vibe.
Trust me, once youve had a pool deck to stretch out on, youll never go back to just grass and gravel.
Creating a Flow That Feels Natural
The biggest trick with decking around an above ground pool is making it feel like it belongs there.
A deck that hugs the shape of the pool can make it feel more built-in, like its always been a part of your yard. You can go halfwayjust enough for a couple of loungers and a space to dry offor go all the way and build steps, platforms, even a pergola overhead.
Think of it like building a stage for the pool to shine on.
And hey, it doesnt all have to be perfectly symmetrical. Ive seen some great L-shaped designs that open up to garden paths or lead into a patio area.
If your pools nestled into a slope (pretty common here on the North Island), you can make the most of that by terracing the deck. Add a railing, a few fairy lights, and boominstant summer hangout.
What Materials Actually Hold Up
Kiwi weather can be a bit unpredictable, so choosing the right decking material matters.
Pines affordable and easy to stain, but youve gotta seal it properly unless you want a green slip-n-slide after the first wet season. Hardwood looks lush but can get pricey real quick.
Composite decking? Bit of an investment, but it lasts forever and doesnt give you splinterspretty ideal if youve got kids or youre padding around barefoot.
Also worth mentioning: if your pool gets full sun most of the day, lighter-colored decking is your friend. Dark wood looks fancy, sure, but itll cook your feet like eggs on a hotplate. Learned that the hard way.
Add-Ons That Level Things Up
If youre dreaming bigger, you can sneak in built-in bench seating, a few planter boxes, or even a bar rail so you can sip something cold while the kids splash about.
One clever build I saw had hidden storage for pool toys underneath the deckgenius. Another had a hammock strung up between two posts on the shaded side.
Its these small touches that make the space somewhere you want to spend time.
Lightings another game-changer. A few solar lights on the stairs or some festoon bulbs overhead can turn the whole area into an evening chill zone.
If youve ever floated in a pool under warm lights with a cool breeze rolling in, you know what I mean. Absolute bliss.
Keep It Safe, But Stylish
Safetys gotta be part of the plan too, especially if youve got little ones running around. Proper railings, non-slip surfaces, maybe even a lockable gate depending on your layout.
Its one of those things you dont think about until you really need it, so best to sort it early.
But heres the good news: safety doesnt have to look boring. You can choose balusters that match your homes vibe, or even go with a bit of wire cabling or glass panels if you want that modern, open look.
The options are endlessand honestly, kind of fun to play around with.
The Build Doesnt Have to Be a Beast
You dont need a massive budget or a professional crew to get started. If youre handy (or know someone who is), even a basic platform deck can be knocked together over a weekend.
Local spots like Mitre 10 usually have the hardware, and you can get plans or inspiration online pretty easily. Ive seen families team up for a DIY weekend, and by Sunday arvo, theyre having their first cannonball contest.
Whether you go simple or all-out, adding a deck around your above ground pool is one of those upgrades that just makes life better.
Its not just about swimming anymoreits about lounging, gathering, playing, and soaking up every sunny moment. And if you ask me, thats what backyards are meant for.
Got a pool already? Or just dreaming about it for now? Either way, hope these ideas spark something.