5 Above Ground Pool Deck Ideas That Instantly Upgrade Your Backyard
Having an above ground pool will allow you to maximize your enjoyment of outdoor living during the summer months. When they are landscaped correctly, however, aboveground pools often appear as if they were not meant to be there at all - they are out of place. Having a deck attached around the perimeter of an above ground pool makes the installation of an above ground pool look complete and gives the user a finished feeling when using the pool and enhances safety in and around the pool. Regardless of the size of your backyard, whether you have a small budget or a large budget, you can find an above ground pool deck plan that suits your needs. You can choose from five different types of aboveground pool decks - a simple side platform, to full wrap around decks and everything in-between. So no matter what type of space you have, there is an appropriate upgrade available to you.
Why It Works
A wraparound deck for your above-ground pool will create the closest resemblance to an underground pool without having to dig a hole. The wraparound deck will create a complete deck structure surrounding your entire pool that will hide the walls of the pool from view. By doing this, it will create a cohesive and natural transition between your pool and the surrounding landscape. The pool’s metal or resin wall surface will no longer be seen, and the only surface that will be exposed will be the surface of the deck itself, making it look intentional, neat, and well-constructed.
In addition to looking good, a wraparound decking system provides you with an ample amount of usable entertainment space. You can place lounge chairs, dining tables, and/or even a small outdoor bar directly around the pool without feeling crowded. There will be plenty of space to move, plenty of space to sit, and plenty of space to enjoy your outdoor living area.
Best For
This type of deck is ideal for large backyards that provide ample room around all sides. It is a good solution for families who enjoy frequent use of their pool, and desire a deck that provides comfortable seating and an area for entertaining guests, as well as an area to simply relax on nice weekends.
Key Considerations
Of all options for a deck, a full wrap-around deck is going to be the most expensive. More materials, labor to build it, and long-term maintenance all increase costs. In addition, your yard will need to have sufficient spacing available to not be confined to an area with fencing and/or other items around it, which could make your deck feel small. If you have the correct size backyard to accommodate a full wrap-around deck then your investment will benefit you greatly.
2. Partial Side Deck for Small Backyards
Why It Works
While not all backyards lend themselves to an entire wrap around, it is perfectly acceptable to build a partial patio/deck. This provides the majority of the usability found in a wrap-around at substantially less cost; therefore making it less complicated. In addition, you can have a "real" entry point, a flat surface to stand upon, as well as a much better appearance than if you had used a basic ladder approach — without having committed to a major construction project.If you are familiar with the fundamentals of basic carpentry, a partial walkway patio/deck is one of the easiest options available to you. A single patio/deck around one side or two sides of your pool, completed over the course of a weekend, will provide a significant improvement to the overall appearance and feel of your outdoor living area.
Best For
If you have a small backyard and limited space, a partial deck may be the best investment for you. It also provides homeowners with low cost improvements to your home without having to do major renovations to your property. If you want to see if a larger deck is feasible, then a partial deck is a good first step!
Key Considerations
If you have only one-third of your deck completed, the above-ground pool will be partially visible from the perimeter and there will be limited space for seating as compared to the entire wrap-around deck. This will be an economical and practical solution, but it will depend on the way you finish your project and how much of the deck will be seen.
3. Multi-Level Pool Deck
Why It Works
Unlike any other type of decking, multi-level decks can create height. With the addition of 2 or more levels instead of just one flat area, they allow for the creation of visual interest and the ability to divide a large area of your yard into separate functional areas.
The upper level will be at the same height as the water line of your pool for easy access from the pool to a deck area, while the lower level becomes an area for lounging and eating outdoors. This arrangement makes the yard feel like a well-planned and designed area.
Multi-level decks are particularly beneficial when there are sloped or uneven terrains because it makes it much easier to construct than if they were built alone as single-level. Since there are steps and different levels, they can follow the natural grade of your yard as opposed to trying to fight against it which makes it easier to build and creates a more natural appearance.
Best For
For sloped yards where there is a need for an imaginative solution to level ground, multi level decks can be used. In addition, they can also be visually appealing and complement a modern backyard that has a clear design objective, distinct spatial zones and a more architecturally correct appearance.
Key Considerations
Unlike a plain deck, this is going to be far more complicated due to its many separate levels and the added need for planning, structural support, and skilled construction to be done correctly. Therefore, the costs for installing these types of decks will also be higher in comparison. If you are a do-it-yourself type of person, this type of deck should be done by a person with a lot of building experience.
4. Low-Maintenance Composite Deck
Why It Works
One of the most intelligent material choices for a pool deck is to incorporate composite decking. It is designed to withstand moisture, sun exposure, and heavy foot traffic without bending, discoloring, or fracturing like natural wood over time. You do not have to sand, seal, or stain it annually; it continues to look great all year long with minimal maintenance from you.
The overall appearance is also clean and polished. Composite boards are available in a variety of color options and patterns to allow you to easily coordinate with the outside of your home and/or your backyard. In addition, they have the appearance of wood, but do not require the repeated work associated with a real wood deck.
Best For
This type of material would be suited to individuals that don't like doing upkeep (or do not have the ability to maintain) but still want a nice-looking deck that's hassle-free (time wise) now and for the long run. Another reason to use composite decking would be for someone that will be living in their home for some time and who wants their deck to retain its appearance and value for years to come.
Key Considerations
The expense for composite decking will be higher than treated lumber when comparing costs at date of purchase, however, when you consider material cost (composite is more expensive), as well as labor costs associated with installation that depend on the deck's complexity (decking designs can vary), you’ll realize you're really just spending more initially for the long term savings of time and money when maintaining your composite deck over its lifespan.
5. Semi-Inground Pool With Raised Deck
Why It Works
The semi-inground pool is constantly partially buried and gives you an overall premium and a built-in look. Pair it with a raised deck, and almost all angles of viewing will be nearly identical to that of an inground pool. With the deck meeting at the same elevation of the pool, the walls will be hidden by both the soil and the surrounding materials, and the entire set-up will blend beautifully into the landscaping.
This is the most visually stunning option on this list and the one that will most likely increase your home's value. For those that appreciate the aesthetics and feel of an inground pool without the total cost of an inground pool, this is the next best thing.
Best For
This type of installation is perfect for homeowners, who desire an upscale look and are open to a more elaborate construction project. In addition, this system is great in a yard where there is a slope or terrace because the visual impact of partially burying the pool is appealing as well as being structurally sound.
Key Considerations
This is by far the most costly and complicated option available. Excavation will be needed, additional structural planning will need to take place and in most cases, you will need a professional contractor. Depending on your location, you may need to get building permits as well. This is a huge project, but the end result will be a backyard that truly has its own character!
Choosing the Right Above Ground Pool Deck
The right deck depends on your space, your budget, and how much time you want to spend maintaining it. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Deck Style | Best For | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Full Wraparound | Entertaining | High |
| Partial Side Deck | Small yards | Low |
| Multi-Level | Modern designs | Medium–High |
| Composite Deck | Low maintenance | Medium–High |
| Semi-Inground | Luxury appearance | High |
You can have the biggest area and the best appearance by using a full wraparound deck if you have a big enough backyard and plan to entertain guests. A partial side deck will be an equally practical upgrade for someone who has a small backyard or budget, and it is also an affordable, intelligent upgrade. For a more modern and design-focused look, you will love the multi-level deck design options. In addition, if you desire a long-term solution, then using composite decking will be the most beautiful, practical, and maintenance-free method. Finally, if you would like the experience of having an inground pool without having to pay for one, then semi-inground pools are much less expensive yet still provide you with all of the benefits of an inground pool.
