Pool Deck Plans in Winter

A friend of mine recently asked, "Is there anybody really building or thinking about building an above ground pool deck now?"

In other words, is an above ground pool deck even on any persons radar in the middle of winter?

That's a good question, given that in the place where above ground pools are very common... the northeast United States for instance... experiences lousy weather this time of year or they're too busy shoveling snow out of their driveway.

And I can empathize. I was born in Rochester NY and spent my early childhood years in upstate NY. I'll admit that I do not remember a lot about the place. But I do remember a lot of white and cold during the winters.

So the answer to my friend was, "Well, they're probably not building a pool deck now but they will once it warms up again and so it's possible some people are at least thinking about it."

So even though it's cold outside it's not too cold to be inside and get informed on how to build a pool deck. Let's start with planning.

You'll need a good above ground pool deck plan before you even make the first purchase of materials. Otherwise, you run the risk of building a pool deck that doesn't fit with your personal style...

Maybe it won't be compatible with your intended use or natural layout of your backyard... or maybe it won't be up to code creating all sorts of havoc with your local building inspector who could have you do everything over again, costing you a bundle.

So start learning the basics of above ground pool deck planning now. Start making some plans that don't require the conveniences of good weather and you'll be ahead in the game when peak DIY season rolls around again.

Here is one thing you can do now...

Start thinking about your pool decks primary intended use. Of course it will be used to sit on before or after a swim. But think more broadly than that. Ask yourself questions like this...

1. Will it be a private retreat where you can get away from the every day?

If this is the case you'll want to add to your plans privacy fences and trees to give you the sense of privacy.

2. Is the pool deck to be a safe zone for your kids and their friends when they have swim time?

In this case you'll want to make sure you can easily view the pool deck from either your living room, kitchen, or back porch... whichever is applicable. Make sure there is no obstruction of your view. So in this instance a privacy screen or tall trees would not make sense.

3. Will the deck primarily be used to host swim parties and friendly get-togethers?

If so, planning for tall trees or privacy screens and fences wouldn't make sense either because you'll want to create the feeling of openness for guests rather than enclosure.

When you know the answers to questions such as these your pool deck plans take on another dynamic. That extra dynamic being your personalization.

It's important that you create a deck that not only is compatible with your local codes but also a natural fit with your backyard, intended use, and personal style. Otherwise, you might not use it very much and it's value will be diminished.

Know your pool, enjoy your pool!

Best regards,

Paul Ottaviano