Floating Foundation for Your Pool Deck

A common question people have when planning an above ground pool deck is, "what foundation should I use?"

As many of you know, decks need a foundation for load-bearing posts. Pool decks are no different. What type of foundation you'll decide to use depends on a few key things.

• How high will your deck be?
  

• The materials you're using.
  

• The ground's freeze depth.
  

• How much weight can your soil handle?
  

Wood that has contact with the ground will eventually degrade. So for post support you'll need concrete footings that are above-grade.

If you decide on foundations that require digging a hole, be sure to dig according to local building codes, which could be up to 5' or more depending on your building codes and soil.

However, there is any easier way. Consider using the floating foundation for your pool deck.

Many above ground pool deck owners who build a deck use a floating foundation because it does not require digging and you won't have to worry about frost levels.

If you're looking to build a pool deck relatively quickly during the summer season... then the floating foundation is the way to go because the process is much simpler than mixing concrete, digging holes, and dealing with a more complex set of building codes.

The safety record of floating foundations is very good too.

Our eBook How to Build a Pool Deck, uses the common wraparound pool deck on a floating foundation as a step-by-step example because it is the most simple foundation for a pool deck.

Floating foundations are very popular for a reason and if you have limited time during the swim season to get an above ground pool deck up, then this is a very good option for you.

As always, enjoy your pool!

Best regards,

Paul Ottaviano