Budget Above Ground Pool Deck Concepts

Installing an above-ground pool can transform a backyard into an oasis for summer fun and relaxation. However, the space around an above-ground pool often ends up a muddy mess that is neither functional nor attractive. Building a pool deck allows you to create a clean, stylish area for lounging poolside without breaking the bank.

A well-designed above-ground pool deck solves a number of problems. It prevents dirt and grass from mixing with pool water. It gives pool-goers a slip-resistant surface for walking safely around the pool's perimeter. Most importantly, an above-ground pool deck turns wasted space into a functional entertaining area the whole family can enjoy.

Plan Your Above Ground Pool Deck

Careful planning is crucial when designing an above-ground pool deck on a budget. Determine the deck's desired size, shape, layout, and material based on your yard dimensions, budget and functional needs.

Consider Size, Shape and Layout

The size and geometry that works best depends on your pool's dimensions and outdoor space. Here are some smart layout options:

• Rectangular decks surrounding three sides of a round or oval pool
• Custom decks incorporating curves to complement unique pool shapes
• Rectangular or square platforms extending pool stairs for entry/exit access
• Wraparound decks encompassing the entire pool perimeter

Scale drawings with precise measurements aid planning and allow you to obtain quotes. Online deck design tools like Decks.com also help visualize options.

Account for Access Needs

Make sure to factor stairs into your deck plans for safe pool entry/exit. Stair location depends on pool filter placement and whether you want deck access on all or just one side. Other access considerations include:

• Doorways from house to deck for transporting food, toys, etc.
• Gates to control pets or little ones wandering poolside unsupervised
• Open areas free of railings for easy furniture/cleaning equipment maneuverability

Decide on Surface Material

On a budget, recycled composite boards, painted plywood and pea gravel offer affordable, low-maintenance options. For a sophisticated look, concrete pavers or composite deck tiles balance style and cost. Evaluate choices based on:

• Cost: Concrete pavers cost more upfront than gravel or wood.
• Appearance: Cool decking paint livens up plywood's basic look.
• Durability: Gravel withstands heavy use but lacks paver's polished visual appeal.
• Traction: Composite tiles rate safest under wet feet.

Calculate Budget

Material expenses constitute your biggest upfront deck cost. Also factor framing lumber, fasteners, railings and stairs. For DIY builds, tools and equipment rentals are additional expenses. Labor for professional installation can double or triple the total budget. Ways to curb spending include:

• Minimize deck size/accessorizing
• Use budget-friendly lumber species like pine
• Paint/stain over pricier hardwoods
• Reuse scrap boards for framing
• Employ basic low-costDeck framing techniques

Low Cost Decking Materials

Choosing budget flooring material involves balancing cost, appearance, durability, traction and maintenance. Get inspired with these wallet-friendly decking ideas.

Painted Plywood

Marine-grade plywood resists moisture damage better than standard construction varieties. A coat of slip-resistant deck paint ($20-$30 per gallon) adds protection and personality with countless color options. Expect to pay $3 to $6 per square foot for plywood decking.

Recycled Scrap Wood

Repurposed lumber cuts costs tremendously for rustic wood decking. Bamboo, pine and cedar patio remnants or salvaged barn boards work beautifully. Costs vary widely based on lumber species, size/thickness and source. Expect to pay around $1 per square foot using free recycled boards.

Composite Deck Tiles

These interlocking plastic or wood/plastic tiles snap together over a gravel or sand base. Quality composite tiles have textured surfaces to minimize slips. Pricing averages $3-$10 per square foot based on material. Benefits include easy DIY installation, reusability and low maintenance.

Pea Gravel

An affordable less than $1 per square foot option, pea gravel creates a French countryside vibe. Installing landscape fabric underneath prevents weeds. Tamp gravel tightly for maximum stability underfoot. Add stone dust between pavers along high-traffic routes.

Concrete Pavers

These prefabricated blocks offer textured traction underfoot when wet. Stylish shapes, colors and patterns personalize poolside decor. The cost for concrete pavers averages $5-$15 per square foot depending on quality, thickness and design intricacy. Allow extra for excavation, base preparation and professional installation.

Affordable Railing Ideas

Safety railings are crucial for elevated decks more than a few feet off the ground. Fortunately, budget options exist beyond expensive wrought iron and aluminum.

PVC Pipe Railings

For an industrial modern vibe, use standard white PVC pipes with connectors for posts and horizontal balusters. This less than $15 per linear foot system is customizable with tees, elbows and couplings.

Wooden Lattice Panels

Lattice infill panels framed between deck posts make charming railings. Opt for pressure-treated pine or cedar to withstand weathering. Attaching decorative post caps lends a finished look. Figure around $25 per linear foot for DIY lattice panel assembly.

Steel Cable Railings

Horizontal galvanized steel cables stretched between posts form minimalist railings with a lightweight, floating appearance. This system costs about $55 per linear foot . Installation requires drilling posts to thread cables through end hardware.

Repurposed Materials

For casual backyard vibes, repurposed railings like old fence panels, salvaged stair balusters and galvanized pipe add personality on a dime. Costs vary widely based on sourcing. Budget around $25-$40 per linear foot total for attachment hardware and postrefurbishing.

Frugal Stair Solutions

Incorporate safe, affordable ways for people to access your above-ground pool with these budget-friendly stair ideas.

Prefabricated Steel Steps

Requiring minimal assembly, affordable metal pool step units offer durable, stable access. These steel stairs cost around $500 on average . Choose options with slip-resistant treads, sturdy handrails and corrosion-resistant finishes.

Pressure-Treated Wood Stair Kits

Prefab stair stringers with precut treads/risers for onsite assembly create budget wood steps. These DIY-friendly kits average $750 , excluding railings. Opt for naturally slip-resistant wood species like Ipe rather than painting for better traction.

DIY Concrete Block Stairs

Stacking solid concrete masonry units cemented together crafts sturdy steps for pennies on the dollar. This stair system costs less than $5 per step . Maximize drainage and stability with gravel backfilling. Factor railings, exterior paint and sealer into the budget.

Repurposed Stair Stringers

Reclaimed wood or metal stringers from old structures make novel recycled stairs. Depending on sourcing, you could pay next to nothing or up to $500 for specialty stair stringers. Allow for extensive refurbishing and custom fabrication of treads/risers.

Budget-Friendly Accessories

Poolside extras provide comfort and ambiance without blowing your budget. Try these wallet-friendly accessory ideas to complete your above-ground oasis.

Solar String Lights

Festoon outdoor areas with solar-powered fairy lights for magical evening ambiance. Costing around $15 per 100-foot string , these LED lights charge all day to shine all night minus electrical bills or cumbersome cords.

Inflatable Pool Furniture

Durable PVC inflatable seating makes summer lounging affordable and low-maintenance. Many options like chairs, chaises, benches and puffs cost less than $50 each . Deflate and store away to preserve furniture when pool's not in use.

Outdoor Rugs and Mats

Define functional zones like entry paths, lounging areas and pool stairs affordably with recycled fabric rugs and rubber anti-fatigue mats. Outdoor carpeting costs around $1 per square foot on average.

Planters from Repurposed Containers

Vintage galvanized washtubs, wood crates and whiskey barrels planted with flowers/herbs make charming cheap planters. Check flea markets, antique shops or DIY from free shipping pallets. Style an eclectic patio for less than $10 per planter .

Save With DIY Installation

You can save thousands by installing your own above-ground pool deck if you have carpentry skills and time. Follow these tips to simplify construction.

Prepare the Ground Properly

Excavate sod and use crushed gravel/stone for proper drainage under decking. Compact soil well before building to prevent settling issues. Remember building codes for footings depth based on frost line.

Use Simple Frame and Joist Structures

Basic deck plans like rectangular platforms are most DIY friendly. Use framing lumber like 2x8s or 2x10s for joists at 16 inches on-center spacing. Secure ledger boards properly to pools, homes or beams.

Employ Basic Construction Skills

If you know how to use saws, drills, levels and other tools, you can likely construct your own pool deck. Property working knowledge of carpentry techniques like laying joists, framing corners and attaching deck boards is vital.

Rent Tools to Reduce Costs

Tool rental fees are minor for most DIY jobs--often less than $100 daily. This saves enormously over buying professional equipment. Research required tools before starting so you can rent everything at once.

Decor Ideas Within Your Budget

Poolside decor need not bust your budget. Liven up surroundings affordably with colorful details, upcycled furnishings and creative lighting displays.

Fun Painted Patterns

Paint concrete pavers, tiles or wood with Moroccan-style designs, bold stripes, freeform shapes or inspirational words. Choose exterior latex paints formulated for pool decks. This easy DIY project costs less than $3 per square foot .

Inexpensive Throw Pillows

Bright cushions liven up poolside seating economically. Outdoor fabric varieties resist mildew and stand up to weather. Buy discounted styles at season's end for savings over 50% off original prices.

Solar Powered Lighting

Ambient glow without electrical hassles comes from solar walkway bollards, spotlights, lanterns and LED strips. Kits available for less than $100 online include panels, batteries, fixtures and remote controls.

Potted Plants and Trees

Container gardens boost poolscape greenery inexpensively. Use tall palms, bamboo and flowering vines to accent deck architecture handsomely for less than $30 per 25-gallon pot .

Water Features from Repurposed Tubs

Stock tank pools, galvanized washtubs and whiskey barrel fountains offer inexpensive water features. Check local ads for freebies, or buy vintage tubs for around $100 . Add recirculating pumps, gravel and plants.

Maintaining Your Pool Deck

With proper care, an above-ground pool deck should last for decades. Follow recommended maintenance to maximize your investment.

Yearly Inspection for Problems

Check for loose nails/screws, splintered boards, warped decking, cracks in concrete pavers and deteriorated caulk/sealant.

Repair Loose Nails, Screws, Warped Boards

Resecure any decking components that wiggle or poke up to prevent tripping hazards. Sand and refasten warped deck boards while damage is minor to restore level surfaces.

Spot Clean Surface with Mild Cleaner

Mix warm water and oxygen bleach to remove built-up mildew/organic stains without excessive scrubbing that degrades wood fibers over time.

Reseal Wood to Prevent Water Damage

Renew protective wood sealant every 1-2 years to reduce swelling and deterioration on deck boards, railings, stairs and furnishing.

FAQs

What are common building codes for above-ground pool decks?

Codes dictate railing height/openings, stair dimensions, Ledger connections, joist sizing and more. Many municipalities require permits and inspections for backyard decks over 30 inches above grade.

Can I build a deck myself around my above-ground pool?

If you have moderate DIY skills, building permits usually aren't necessary for basic low decking around above-ground pools. More ambitious multi-level designs call for professional expertise.

What is the least expensive material for decking around an above-ground pool?

Gravel and painted/stained plywood are most affordable for above-ground pool decks. Composite deck tiles also balance cost and performance for durable, easy-to-install flooring.

Case Studies

The Johnson's Rectangular Cedar Deck

This wraparound pool deck combines DIY sweat equity with the warmth of cedar decking. By scouring local ads for used lumber, the Johnsons saved over 50 percent on materials. Their customized stained deck cost around $1,500.

The Thompson's Composite Paver Deck

For ease of installation, the Thompsons chose interlocking composite pavers for their circular above-ground pool deck. With professional installation, the 400-square-foot deck came to right around $3,500 including stairs and decorative plantings.

Budget-friendly decks enhance above-ground pools by preventing messy runoff and providing functional leisure space. Plan dimensions, layouts and materials carefully upfront based on needs and costs. Explore creative DIY railing, stair and decor options to personalize your entertainment oasis affordably. Proper construction and care helps even inexpensive decks last for years of summer enjoyment.