10 ways to build a deck that lasts

Ten important ingredients to building a deck.
by Lawn Care Service

How much does it cost to build a pool deck?

I got a good question last week from a reader named Terry who asked, "How much to have an above ground pool deck built? What are the best options in your opinion?"

My answer...

There are many good options to choose from if you're going to build a pool deck. What's best for you might not be best for others, and vice versa.

Also, a lot depends on the dimensions and dynamics of your backyard, and your local building codes too. So it's difficult to generalize without being able to see your backyard.

That said, what if you just have a basic need to build a pool deck?

For example, if your wife is insisting on one so you can see your kids swim without having to stand on your toes, then a wraparound deck on a floating foundation is the most common, generally regarded as the easiest to build, and might be the right deck for you.

We use the wraparound example in the step-by-step construction chapter of our eBook "How to Build a Pool Deck".

If you want to build a pool deck your friends will really admire and you're planning on having a lot of swim parties, then perhaps a multi-level deck is best for you. It all depends on your preferences and how you plan on using the deck.

As for costs, that depends on you and some choices you make. For instance, it depends on which lumber you choose, how big your deck will be, if you buy or rent tools, etc.

I know of some people who invested up to $20,000 building a deck, usually a multi-level deck, and some people who have spent much less.

It's really up to the individual builder and what you want out of the deck.

As always, enjoy your pool!

Best regards,

Paul Ottaviano
Createyourdeck.com - eBook "How to Build a Pool Deck"

Cap and Trade and Your Deck

I usually don't get too involved with politics on this blog because most of it isn't related to building a pool deck. However, the Waxman-Markey climate change "cap and trade" bill making its way through Congress could have impact on your decking plans or even just your backyard.

For example...

The now famous "shade tree" requirement (Section 205) is a real part of the bill.

Those who voted for this bill - assuming they read it - would now like the government to be your chief landscaper. There will be "minimum required distances" between your trees and your home, as well as other things, like your pool deck.

Also, if this bill becomes law there will be "lighting efficiency standards". So those of you who just installed outdoor lighting that doesn't meet the government prescribed list of qualifications can expect what? An energy audit? I don't know.

I understand that many of you probably have different views on government, energy, and the environment.

My point here is not to force my personal views upon you but instead show how this bill could possibly impact your decking plans, your existing pool deck, or other DIY projects you have in mind for the future.

Waxman-Markey is a mammoth piece of legislation. At 1000 pages nobody can realistically be expected to read the whole thing in one sitting - most of the House didn't read it - but there are people out there who do just that and post their findings.

So I'll be keeping a close eye on this and anything that looks like it could affect your pool deck ideas or plans will be passed along to you.

You can view the bill for yourself here.

Regards,

Paul Ottaviano
Createyourdeck.com - How to Build Pool Decks

How to Build Your Deck with Rental Tools

Rent the Tools You'll Need Only Once

When I was in college I worked for a small home improvement chain in La Habra, CA. After my "breaking in period" I was assigned to the tool rental desk.

At the time, I didn't know much about the tools we rented. That said, there wasn't a huge inventory of tools to rent and most of our customers knew what they were looking for anyway.

Many of the people who rented tools were either contractors or DIY'ers with at least a little bit of experience. Many of them had stories about how they bought new tools for one particular project only to never use that tool again. Now that I think about it that was their way of saying, "I'm your rental customer. Don't try to sell me something I don't want to keep and I'll probably be back."

Tool rental is really a great service and I highly recommend that you look into it for your above ground swimming pool deck project.

It's great for contractors because they'll likely spend less on tools they don't need regularly and hopefully they'll pass those cost savings on to you.

If you're building a deck for your pool, then renting tools you'll only need for that project is a obvious money saver.

For example, you probably won't need to buy excavation equipment or an hydraulic jack. So rent those if you need them.

The best thing to do when planning your above ground swimming pool deck is to make a list of all the tools you'll need, and also what you might need.

Then take inventory of what you already own and what you can borrow from a friend or neighbor.

It may feel awkward to ask a friend to borrow a tool, but it could save you some money. And who knows? Maybe your friend will want to help out with the construction. A long shot, but you never know until you ask.

Next, think about any other DIY projects you might do in the future. Will you need a new tool for that project as well? Then perhaps it makes sense to go ahead and buy it.

If you don't plan on doing another project in the near future or it won't require a specific tool you don't already have, then rent that tool instead.

Renting tools should be easy. Most reputable home improvement centers should offer the service.

As always, enjoy your pool!

Regards,

Paul Ottaviano
Createyourdeck.com - How to Build a Deck for an Above Ground Pool