Pool Deck Designs and Options
California Redwood Association
Above-ground pools are easy to install, there’s no excavation necessary, and they cost about one-fifth of an in-ground pool. Although most folks say an in-ground pool is more attractive, an above-ground pool can be just as eye-catching with the addition of a pool deck.
To build a pool deck, you’ll want to create safe, secure access with a freestanding deck that comes right to the edge of — but doesn’t attach to — your pool. In terms of design, your deck can border just a section of the pool, go halfway around, or encircle the entire pool. The surface should be wide enough for safe walking — 3 feet is a good minimum — and after that, it’s up to your imagination. Include a nice lounging area for sunbathing, relaxing and keeping an eye on kids.
Wood decks are the most popular and easiest for the DIYer to build. Pressure-treated wood, cedar, and redwood are all good choices, but you’ll need to refinish your wood deck almost every year to protect it from constant moisture and chlorinated water.
Composite and aluminum decking are waterproof decking materials that shrug off splashes. Choose textured decking that provides slip-resistance.
To stay safe, remember that railings are required on decks more than 30 inches above grade. Railings should be at least 36 inches high, with balusters no more than 4 inches apart. It’s a good idea to add a lockable gate to the deck stairs to restrict access to the pool.
Existing Pool Gets New Decking 02:15
Here are some basic guidelines about how to build a deck around a pool. These requirements come form the 2012 International Pool and Spa Code, but that doesn’t mean they’ve been adopted by your region. Check with your local building authority for deck-building codes in your area.
• The deck should not attach to the pool in any way. The distance from the decking to the outside edge of the pool should be about 3/4 of an inch.
• Decks for above-ground pools are usually 3 to 6 feet above grade, so posts should be cross-braced for lateral stability.
• Freestanding decks have less code restrictions for foundations than decks attached to your house. A freestanding deck can rest on concrete deck blocks that are placed directly on the ground, saving you the time and expense of digging and pouring footings.
• Building codes state that decking surfaces around pools and spas should be slip-resistant. However, the codes don’t define what “slip-resistance” actually is. Some composite and synthetic decking materials have textured surfaces that should help reduce slipping, and aluminum decking can be ordered with a waterproof, anti-slip coating.
• Decking surfaces should be sloped 1/8 to 1/4 inches over 12 inches to shed water, but codes are unspecific about the total distance you need to slope a pool deck.
Pools and Decks to Die For
See All Photos
Party Ready
Festive lighting and ample seating make this traditional backyard pool a fantastic spot to entertain. Seating is grouped into zones for conversation, dining and poolside lounging while ample terraces connect the indoor and outdoor spaces and offer great views of the retreat-like backyard.
Photo By: LGB Interiors
Stars and Streams
A pebbled stream with twinkling underwater lights flows from the hot tub to the pool in this dreamy outdoor oasis. A curved outdoor fire pit with semiciricle bench extends out from the stone deck, providing a spot to enjoy the stunning view.
Photo By: By Design Custom Home Concierge
Beachfront Paradise
Serene and stunning, this grand pool is nestled among palm trees and tropical landscaping. See more of this oceanfront paradise>>
Photo By: EWM Realty International, a member of Luxury Portfolio International
French Chateau
The pool and patio area in this luxury home's backyard is the perfect place to unwind on warm evenings. See more photos of this gorgeous chateau >>
Photo By: Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International; Shoot2Sell Photography
Sleek Design
This breathtaking house has an intimate connection with all of its outdoor spaces. Oversized windows and soaring glass walls overlook the sleek pool patio featuring an infinity pool, elevated hot tub and integrated landscaping.
Photo By: Jacob Bodkin
Room to Entertain
A spacious stone patio with ample space for entertaining surrounds a crystal clear pool and stacked stone hot tub in the backyard of this Mediterranean-style home.
Photo By: Spenser Bruce
Cape Cod Luxury
A beautiful modern pool, hot tub and firepit can be seen from the diamond-patterned patio of this Cape Cod estate. See more photos of this stunning retreat >>
Photo By: Dilbeck Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International
North Shore Views
Spectacular views of Kauai's Kalihiwai Bay can be enjoyed from all angles of this luxurious infinity edge pool and deck. See more photos of this gorgeous North Shore home >>
Photo By: Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, a member of Luxury Portfolio International; Damon Moss Photography
Carolina on My Mind
The stone deck and infinity edge pool of this Western North Carolina chalet blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.
Photo By: Deborah A Scannell
Tuscan Cabana
A neutral stone patio leads out to a beautiful pool and hot tub in this Tuscan-inspired home. On the far end, an open cabana features a comfortable seating area and rustic stone wall fireplace.
Photo By: Sharp Design Studio
Picturesque Patio
The distant sunset illuminates this tropical paradise's sprawling patio and 50-foot saltwater pool. Flanked by a variety of tropical plants, the pool area includes a picturesque waterfall, firepit and lounge chairs for relaxing.
Photo By: Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, a member of Luxury Portfolio International
Room to Play
Featuring a fully-stocked outdoor kitchen, waterfalls, a spa and more, this expansive outdoor retreat offers plenty of room to relax and play. The lush landscaping, designed for privacy, includes sizable Leyland cypress, cedars and palms.
Photo By: Willis Allen Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International
East Coast Inspiration
With shady pergolas, cozy furnishings and nautical blue accents, this gorgeous backyard retreat was designed to evoke the East Coast's Hamptons.
Photo By: Debbie Talianko
Midcentury Modern Design
Sleek concrete decking provides a seamless transition from home to pool in this gorgeous midcentury modern residence.
Photo By: Windermere Real Estate Southern California, a member of Luxury Portfolio International
Under the Oak Tree
A sleek, 75-foot lap pool, with infinity edges on three sides, slips just under a large oak tree in this breathtaking backyard. The pool's clean-lined design blends beautifully with the home's modern exterior.
Photo By: Joe Fletcher
Cabana Resort
This gorgeous estate features a backyard resembling a private resort. Relax and grab a bite to eat at the poolside cabana or take a dip in the luxurious swimming pool or spa.
Photo By: Harold Leidner
Texas Lights
Glowing LED lighting gives this infinity pool and spa a cool and inviting aura—perfect for entertaining on warm Texas evenings. See more of this charming Southwestern home >>
Photo By: By Design Custom Home Concierge
Traditional Charm
This Cape Cod home has an inviting backyard space with a traditional pool and seating area great for relaxing and enjoying the summer weather. See more photos of this charming home >>
Photo By: Picasa ©Scripps Networks, LLC
Rustic Meets Modern
The stacked stone exterior of this Arizona home is a beautiful, rustic contrast to the clean modern lines of the deck and infinity pool. Oversized lounge chairs add an extra contemporary touch and are the perfect spot to relax and watch the poolside television.
Photo By: Thompson Photographic
Southwestern Views
A terraced swimming pool and sleek tiled deck provide a great place to relax and enjoy the impeccable view from this Southwestern-style home.
Photo By: Greg Wilson
Black Stone Pool
This neutral stone tile patio features a gorgeous contemporary infinity pool flanked by concrete fire bowls. An outdoor kitchen with a built-in grilling area is located just next to the pool, while meticulous landscaping—including a wall with climbing plants arranged in a diamond pattern—adds a finishing touch.
Photo By: Greenwood King Properties, a member of Luxury Portfolio International
Transitional Beauty
One gorgeous space leads seamlessly to the next in this incredible open-air villa.
Photo By: Taggart Sorensen
Georgian Estate
Covered porches and an elegant brick patio surround the backyard pool of this 1929 Georgian estate in Bel-Air, California.
Photo By: Hilton & Hyland, a member of Luxury Portfolio International
Garden Pool
Entertain or relax pool side in this lush garden pool space. Adirondack chairs centered around a patio table offer a delightful spot to eat or drink while enjoying the warmth of summer.
Photo By: Paragon Pools
Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting is tucked into the overhangs of a cantilevered roof, lighting up the sleek, streamlined pool and highlighting the lines of this home's Mid-Century Modern design.
Photo By: [STRANG] Architecture
Santa Barbara Elegance
In the backyard of this stunning modern home, a striking infinity pool with a glass perimeter curves down to sparkling views of Santa Barbara. A pergola structure anchors the end of the space, creating a quiet and dream-like place to watch the sunset.
Photo By: Ciro Coelho
Balinese-Inspired Villa
At night, the pool and patio areas of this home in the British Virgin Islands create a soothing and comfortable ambiance. Paired with the picturesque view, it's reason enough to have evening cocktails outdoors. See more photos of this stunning villa >>
Photo By: Smiths Gore Limited, a member of Luxury Portfolio International
Liquid Window
This multi-level, multidimensional infinity edge pool features upper and lower sections separated by a thick, acrylic pane called a "liquid window," which gives the illusion of water floating in space.
Next Up
Deck Design Ideas and Options
Best Deck Lighting Options
Deck Railing Design Ideas
Floating Deck Design Ideas
Design Ideas for Deck Planter Boxes
Small Deck Design Ideas
Ground Level Deck Designs
Ideas for Deck Furniture
Your Guide to Buying Deck Furniture
