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"
Showing posts with label how to build pool deck. Show all posts
Showing posts with label how to build pool deck. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Monday, July 20, 2009
Another Code Horror Story
City Deems $20,000 Pool Deck Illegal
I've written before that you need to check with your local building inspector before building a pool deck. It's not because I think codes are always perfect but because it can be very costly if you don't.
This particular case involves a man in Arkansas who built a very nice looking above ground pool deck for his family. As far as safety is concerned, there doesn't appear to be any problems. The problem is that there is supposedly an easement in his backyard that prohibits the building of a deck. So now the city is telling him to take down the entire $20,000 deck.
He claims that a building inspector told him it was fine to build there. Another inspector is saying no. I don't know all the facts of the story but if there is a lesson to be learned, perhaps it's that you shouldn't trust what some worker for the city says and you should double check and get the necessary permits before building.
You can check out this story from 4029 TV in Arkansas here.
As always, enjoy your pool.
Regards,
Paul Ottaviano
Createyourdeck.com - How to Build Pool Decks
I've written before that you need to check with your local building inspector before building a pool deck. It's not because I think codes are always perfect but because it can be very costly if you don't.
This particular case involves a man in Arkansas who built a very nice looking above ground pool deck for his family. As far as safety is concerned, there doesn't appear to be any problems. The problem is that there is supposedly an easement in his backyard that prohibits the building of a deck. So now the city is telling him to take down the entire $20,000 deck.
He claims that a building inspector told him it was fine to build there. Another inspector is saying no. I don't know all the facts of the story but if there is a lesson to be learned, perhaps it's that you shouldn't trust what some worker for the city says and you should double check and get the necessary permits before building.
You can check out this story from 4029 TV in Arkansas here.
As always, enjoy your pool.
Regards,
Paul Ottaviano
Createyourdeck.com - How to Build Pool Decks
Monday, November 24, 2008
Give Thanks for Investment in Experience
To those of you from the United States I hope your Thanksgiving holiday is a good one. In many parts of the country it's a beautiful time of year and the holiday is always good for "relaxing" with family.
The way I see it holiday's are an investment in experience. In the long run it's the experiences - good or not so good - that we're likely to remember most. Each year Thanksgiving is one such experience - hopefully a good one for you - that you'll always think of fondly.
And that is basic value that I've tried to bring to you with this blog and our website createyourdeck.com...
Whether it's the actual planning or building of your above ground pool deck... or enjoying the finished product... it's all an investment in experience.
Experience that hopefully brings good memories... or maybe good laughs in the face of innocent building mistakes, after the initial frustration... and in the very least it's a learning experience where you're challenged to accomplish something great for yourself and family.
All I've ever tried to do through this blog and our website is to help you have that kind of good experience while building your pool deck... and that kind of experience going forward when you use your pool deck.
Hopefully I've been able to do that for you. And because of people like you, I get to do something I love.
Happy Thanksgiving,
Paul Ottaviano
How to build a deck around your pool
The way I see it holiday's are an investment in experience. In the long run it's the experiences - good or not so good - that we're likely to remember most. Each year Thanksgiving is one such experience - hopefully a good one for you - that you'll always think of fondly.
And that is basic value that I've tried to bring to you with this blog and our website createyourdeck.com...
Whether it's the actual planning or building of your above ground pool deck... or enjoying the finished product... it's all an investment in experience.
Experience that hopefully brings good memories... or maybe good laughs in the face of innocent building mistakes, after the initial frustration... and in the very least it's a learning experience where you're challenged to accomplish something great for yourself and family.
All I've ever tried to do through this blog and our website is to help you have that kind of good experience while building your pool deck... and that kind of experience going forward when you use your pool deck.
Hopefully I've been able to do that for you. And because of people like you, I get to do something I love.
Happy Thanksgiving,
Paul Ottaviano
How to build a deck around your pool
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Above Ground Swimming Pool Deck Season
Well, it's already March. It's hard to believe how fast time flies. But take heart! March means that spring and summer are right around the corner. And this also means that peak swim season is almost upon you.
With that being said, now is a great time to start seriously thinking about your above ground pool deck building project. In fact, if the snow is starting to melt and the air is getting a bit warmer then now is a great time to start working on your pool deck plans.
The usual "above ground pool deck building season" is around mid-April (or whenever the weather starts to cooperate in your climate) through August. That's certainly when I see a lot of activity. And it's probably the time of year when you swim in your above ground pool most often, or when you're most likely to do any outdoor home improvements.
For me, I'll be working on a drain underneath my pool deck clogged by a young palm tree of all things. I guess what I'm trying to say is that it's time to start shaking loose the cobwebs of the winter cold and start preparing to have fun this summer.
Speaking of "pool deck building season", why wait until June to get started? Depending on the type of deck you choose to build, you might not have it finished until August. And then you'll have only one or maybe two months left to really enjoy it unless you live in California.
(Yes, people do have above ground pools in California! In fact, 15% of above ground pool sales in the US are in the western states).
Start planning now and start doing the steps that will help you get your above ground pool deck blueprints together. This way, you can be ready to start building by May or June. And depending on how quickly you complete your project you'll have most of the summer to enjoy using your new pool deck... well, don't go too fast and risk making big mistakes... but I think you know what I mean.
And if you have kids, just think of how much they'll like having a new deck to compliment your above ground pool. And imagine how much you'll enjoy watching them have fun. Start thinking about how you're going to build an above ground pool deck now and all of that can happen.
As always, enjoy your pool!
Regards,
Paul Ottaviano
Createyourdeck.com
With that being said, now is a great time to start seriously thinking about your above ground pool deck building project. In fact, if the snow is starting to melt and the air is getting a bit warmer then now is a great time to start working on your pool deck plans.
The usual "above ground pool deck building season" is around mid-April (or whenever the weather starts to cooperate in your climate) through August. That's certainly when I see a lot of activity. And it's probably the time of year when you swim in your above ground pool most often, or when you're most likely to do any outdoor home improvements.
For me, I'll be working on a drain underneath my pool deck clogged by a young palm tree of all things. I guess what I'm trying to say is that it's time to start shaking loose the cobwebs of the winter cold and start preparing to have fun this summer.
Speaking of "pool deck building season", why wait until June to get started? Depending on the type of deck you choose to build, you might not have it finished until August. And then you'll have only one or maybe two months left to really enjoy it unless you live in California.
(Yes, people do have above ground pools in California! In fact, 15% of above ground pool sales in the US are in the western states).
Start planning now and start doing the steps that will help you get your above ground pool deck blueprints together. This way, you can be ready to start building by May or June. And depending on how quickly you complete your project you'll have most of the summer to enjoy using your new pool deck... well, don't go too fast and risk making big mistakes... but I think you know what I mean.
And if you have kids, just think of how much they'll like having a new deck to compliment your above ground pool. And imagine how much you'll enjoy watching them have fun. Start thinking about how you're going to build an above ground pool deck now and all of that can happen.
As always, enjoy your pool!
Regards,
Paul Ottaviano
Createyourdeck.com
Friday, February 22, 2008
DIY Pool Deck Kit
If you're not too worried about the aesthetics of your above ground pool deck and you just want something very "simple but nice" then a pool deck kit might be the right thing for you.
To simplify your task as much as possible, you can buy a DIY pool deck kit. DIY pool deck kits are ideal as they ship with everything from the concrete pier blocks, to the foundation planks.
In addition, computer savvy users can also access state of the art deck building plans online and download detailed building plans from the DIY pool deck kit manufacturer’s website.
The best part about floating foundation based above ground pool decks is that they require no more than two days to build, and DIY pool deck kits are a cost effective means of building a pool deck.
What is equally impressive about above ground pool deck kits is that the entire installation procedure can be completed for less than $3000.
The Installation
The first step in setting up any DIY pool deck kit is creating the floating foundation by laying down the concrete blocks. Remember, the concrete blocks have to be laid down on level ground and they should be spaced apart as per the construction plans.
Once the concrete blocks are laid down, the foundation is laid down using radiating perpendicular planks that act as the base for the foundation.
Since the support planks are installed at a height above the ground, the concrete blocks provide added resistance to weather conditions. In addition, you will also have to install diagonal braces to strengthen the foundation.
Once the foundation is ready, the next step is installing the deck floor. The deck floor has to be level; as a matter of fact, one of the most important aspects of building an above ground pool deck is making sure the entire structure is level.
Most DIY pool deck kits come with a level that allows the builder to not just construct the deck on an even level, but also allow a person to install all the balusters perpendicular to the deck floor. The railing will only be strong if the balusters are perpendicular to the deck floor.
A vital part of building an above ground pool deck is choosing the deck boards. The deck boards should be made from high quality pressurized lumber and depending on your deck plan should be parallel to each other.
Experienced builders agree that building an above ground pool deck is a simple and hassle free task provided the builder has the right equipment and plans. If you are planning on building an above ground pool deck, make sure you get the plan approved by the local building authority before starting any construction.
That said, if a pool deck kit is too simple or generic for you and you want to create an above ground pool deck that looks fantastic and is a reflection of your style - or your family's style - then a pool deck kit probably isn't the right thing for you.
Learn more about how to build an above ground pool deck.
Enjoy your pool!
Best Regards,
Paul Ottaviano
Createyourdeck.com
To simplify your task as much as possible, you can buy a DIY pool deck kit. DIY pool deck kits are ideal as they ship with everything from the concrete pier blocks, to the foundation planks.
In addition, computer savvy users can also access state of the art deck building plans online and download detailed building plans from the DIY pool deck kit manufacturer’s website.
The best part about floating foundation based above ground pool decks is that they require no more than two days to build, and DIY pool deck kits are a cost effective means of building a pool deck.
What is equally impressive about above ground pool deck kits is that the entire installation procedure can be completed for less than $3000.
The Installation
The first step in setting up any DIY pool deck kit is creating the floating foundation by laying down the concrete blocks. Remember, the concrete blocks have to be laid down on level ground and they should be spaced apart as per the construction plans.
Once the concrete blocks are laid down, the foundation is laid down using radiating perpendicular planks that act as the base for the foundation.
Since the support planks are installed at a height above the ground, the concrete blocks provide added resistance to weather conditions. In addition, you will also have to install diagonal braces to strengthen the foundation.
Once the foundation is ready, the next step is installing the deck floor. The deck floor has to be level; as a matter of fact, one of the most important aspects of building an above ground pool deck is making sure the entire structure is level.
Most DIY pool deck kits come with a level that allows the builder to not just construct the deck on an even level, but also allow a person to install all the balusters perpendicular to the deck floor. The railing will only be strong if the balusters are perpendicular to the deck floor.
A vital part of building an above ground pool deck is choosing the deck boards. The deck boards should be made from high quality pressurized lumber and depending on your deck plan should be parallel to each other.
Experienced builders agree that building an above ground pool deck is a simple and hassle free task provided the builder has the right equipment and plans. If you are planning on building an above ground pool deck, make sure you get the plan approved by the local building authority before starting any construction.
That said, if a pool deck kit is too simple or generic for you and you want to create an above ground pool deck that looks fantastic and is a reflection of your style - or your family's style - then a pool deck kit probably isn't the right thing for you.
Learn more about how to build an above ground pool deck.
Enjoy your pool!
Best Regards,
Paul Ottaviano
Createyourdeck.com
Thursday, February 14, 2008
How to Build a Deck Step by Step
Many people with an oval above ground pool choose to build a deck around the pool, instead of letting it get too complicated with dynamic multi-level designs. If you live in an area where the seasons change quickly then it's reasonable that you'll want to build quickly and this type of wood pool deck may be the one for you.
Or if your main motivation for the above ground pool deck is simply to give your kids a safe place to play then building a deck around the pool is a great choice.
Here are the general steps you'll want to take...
1. Planning - Take some time and study your backyard. Check for slopes, figure out where the utility lines are, learn about your local building codes, know which materials and tools you'll need to buy or rent, et al... and then start visualizing how your deck will look.
2. Plans to Paper - Start putting everything down on paper, so when it's time to build your memory will serve you right and you'll build the above ground pool deck you visualized. This is where you'll do everything from base maps to master plans. If you think it's necessary, use deck plan software.
*Make sure your above ground pool deck plans are approved by your local building inspector before you start building.
3. Building a Pool Deck Step by Step - Here is where you'll build a deck around your pool one step at a time. It's a good idea to know before you begin each step of construction which tools or materials you'll really need and how long that phase of construction will take. This will help you decide if you can go 100% DIY on each step or if you'll need to hire some help for a specific task.
4. Finish - Once your above ground pool deck is built you'll likely want to finish it by staining or painting it. Make sure that you use a finish that will be compatible with your local climate. Choosing the right lumber before you start construction can help you with that too. If you use untreated lumber make sure you apply sealer unless you have lumber that is naturally resistant to rot. Applying sealer before you start building can be a good idea.
5. Decoration - I doubt that you'll want just a plain and boring looking deck around your pool. So jazz it up some with decorations and add a touch of your personal style while you're at it. Deck furniture can create a nice focal point by themselves or consider a small fountain that can fit easily on your above ground pool deck... use plants... or build a deck bench... the possibilities are great here!
Remember, when you're building a deck around a pool you're not just making an investment into your home but you're also investing in your happiness. Have fun with it!
Regards,
Paul Ottaviano
More step by step pool deck info here.
Or if your main motivation for the above ground pool deck is simply to give your kids a safe place to play then building a deck around the pool is a great choice.
Here are the general steps you'll want to take...
1. Planning - Take some time and study your backyard. Check for slopes, figure out where the utility lines are, learn about your local building codes, know which materials and tools you'll need to buy or rent, et al... and then start visualizing how your deck will look.
2. Plans to Paper - Start putting everything down on paper, so when it's time to build your memory will serve you right and you'll build the above ground pool deck you visualized. This is where you'll do everything from base maps to master plans. If you think it's necessary, use deck plan software.
*Make sure your above ground pool deck plans are approved by your local building inspector before you start building.
3. Building a Pool Deck Step by Step - Here is where you'll build a deck around your pool one step at a time. It's a good idea to know before you begin each step of construction which tools or materials you'll really need and how long that phase of construction will take. This will help you decide if you can go 100% DIY on each step or if you'll need to hire some help for a specific task.
4. Finish - Once your above ground pool deck is built you'll likely want to finish it by staining or painting it. Make sure that you use a finish that will be compatible with your local climate. Choosing the right lumber before you start construction can help you with that too. If you use untreated lumber make sure you apply sealer unless you have lumber that is naturally resistant to rot. Applying sealer before you start building can be a good idea.
5. Decoration - I doubt that you'll want just a plain and boring looking deck around your pool. So jazz it up some with decorations and add a touch of your personal style while you're at it. Deck furniture can create a nice focal point by themselves or consider a small fountain that can fit easily on your above ground pool deck... use plants... or build a deck bench... the possibilities are great here!
Remember, when you're building a deck around a pool you're not just making an investment into your home but you're also investing in your happiness. Have fun with it!
Regards,
Paul Ottaviano
More step by step pool deck info here.
Friday, February 1, 2008
Building an Above Ground Pool Deck at Microwave Speed
OK. So it's not possible to build an above ground pool deck at fast food speed. But I've been thinking about how popular above ground pools are in places like upstate NY, where the seasonal weather changes almost demand that a pool deck be built relatively quickly.
Once the sun begins to show itself again and the snow begins to melt - and folks, I was born in Rochester NY and I remember the snow there - you'll have a limited amount of time to get your above ground pool deck up if you still want to be able to enjoy it during your summer swim season.
This applies to anyone in the world who lives in a climate that really experiences climate change from season to season.
In other words, you don't have time to mess around or surf the 'net all day looking for reliable information on how to build a pool deck. Yes, you want to plan a dream pool deck that suits your needs and personal style, and is compliant with codes. But at the end of the day you can't be paralyzed with analysis.
At some point you'll have to be decisive and just get a pool deck up so you can actually see your kids having fun splashing around the pool without you having to strain just to look over the above ground pool walls.
Who wants to start a project... either the planning or building... and then get stuck on something because information was limited or misunderstood and then the project is on hold until next year? I wouldn't want that and I doubt you do too.
What you need is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you plan and build your dream above ground pool deck, and QUICKLY... or at least quickly enough to beat the season and have enough time to enjoy your new pool deck during what's left of summer.
To do this you'll need to know just the essentials, just what you really need to get the job done right. Not an overabundance of information that leaves you scratching your head and on the verge of giving up... or a massive tools list that leads you back to your local home improvement store buying or renting tools you might not really need.
For those of you living in an area I described above you'll need "just the facts jack" instead of being "make a new plan Stan".
My thanks to a Paul Simon song for that last one liner quote... :)
Treat yourself,
Paul Ottaviano
Createyourdeck.com
Once the sun begins to show itself again and the snow begins to melt - and folks, I was born in Rochester NY and I remember the snow there - you'll have a limited amount of time to get your above ground pool deck up if you still want to be able to enjoy it during your summer swim season.
This applies to anyone in the world who lives in a climate that really experiences climate change from season to season.
In other words, you don't have time to mess around or surf the 'net all day looking for reliable information on how to build a pool deck. Yes, you want to plan a dream pool deck that suits your needs and personal style, and is compliant with codes. But at the end of the day you can't be paralyzed with analysis.
At some point you'll have to be decisive and just get a pool deck up so you can actually see your kids having fun splashing around the pool without you having to strain just to look over the above ground pool walls.
Who wants to start a project... either the planning or building... and then get stuck on something because information was limited or misunderstood and then the project is on hold until next year? I wouldn't want that and I doubt you do too.
What you need is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you plan and build your dream above ground pool deck, and QUICKLY... or at least quickly enough to beat the season and have enough time to enjoy your new pool deck during what's left of summer.
To do this you'll need to know just the essentials, just what you really need to get the job done right. Not an overabundance of information that leaves you scratching your head and on the verge of giving up... or a massive tools list that leads you back to your local home improvement store buying or renting tools you might not really need.
For those of you living in an area I described above you'll need "just the facts jack" instead of being "make a new plan Stan".
My thanks to a Paul Simon song for that last one liner quote... :)
Treat yourself,
Paul Ottaviano
Createyourdeck.com
Friday, January 25, 2008
Recession Proof Pool Deck
We had our good friends from Roto Rooter over early this morning to inspect a clogged drain underneath our deck and running down the side of the house. Somehow a baby palm tree - yes, a palm tree - starting growing in one of the drains on the side of the house... where there is nothing but hardscape.
How it got there I don't know. But its roots are already spreading out all over the pipes that runoff to the street gutter. In order to fix it they'll have to rip up all of the concrete on the side of the house, and then replace 70' of pipe. The estimated cost? $4000.
I have to thank the little palm tree for its impeccable timing... volatile stock market, weak US dollar, credit crisis, sub-prime mortgage crisis, economic "experts" talking about recession... and I'm looking at making a decision between the drain - not something I want but something I'll eventually need to do - and a kitchen home improvement project (something I do want).
So the title of this blog post "Recession Proof Pool Deck" is written with a little bit of irony. Of course I'm not sure if there is such a thing as a recession proof deck. But I think one can't hurt and has the potential to certainly help right now.
The latest financial news and our friends from Roto Rooter got me thinking about pool decks or any other home improvement project. How practical would it be to build a pool deck in this economic climate?
Well, I suppose that depends on you and what you want versus what you need.
People spend more money on what they want and on what will make their lives perceptively better. In my situation, an improved kitchen will make me a lot happier than spending $4000 on a clogged drain.
Plus, the new kitchen will increase the value of the home... as would your new above ground pool deck... both appreciative home improvements that anyone who has the means should always consider doing.
So I'll use a submersible pump I can buy at any home and garden store as a stop gap for the drain, remodel the kitchen which makes the home a little more valuable, and then the drain fix basically pays for it self when the time comes to fix it.
I've just balanced what I want with what I need.
How does this apply to your above ground pool deck project?
If my situation with the drain were yours - and we're all living with the same global economic concerns unless you're doing quite well for yourself - then you should consider giving yourself what you want first... especially if if were to noticeably appreciate the value of a major asset like your home. In this case I'm thinking that thing you want would be your pool deck.
The exception to that being if your need - in this example the drain - became too much of a nuisance to avoid for long.
You might think it difficult to justify paying for a new above ground pool deck in a recession. I'm thinking how can you not?
How it got there I don't know. But its roots are already spreading out all over the pipes that runoff to the street gutter. In order to fix it they'll have to rip up all of the concrete on the side of the house, and then replace 70' of pipe. The estimated cost? $4000.
I have to thank the little palm tree for its impeccable timing... volatile stock market, weak US dollar, credit crisis, sub-prime mortgage crisis, economic "experts" talking about recession... and I'm looking at making a decision between the drain - not something I want but something I'll eventually need to do - and a kitchen home improvement project (something I do want).
So the title of this blog post "Recession Proof Pool Deck" is written with a little bit of irony. Of course I'm not sure if there is such a thing as a recession proof deck. But I think one can't hurt and has the potential to certainly help right now.
The latest financial news and our friends from Roto Rooter got me thinking about pool decks or any other home improvement project. How practical would it be to build a pool deck in this economic climate?
Well, I suppose that depends on you and what you want versus what you need.
People spend more money on what they want and on what will make their lives perceptively better. In my situation, an improved kitchen will make me a lot happier than spending $4000 on a clogged drain.
Plus, the new kitchen will increase the value of the home... as would your new above ground pool deck... both appreciative home improvements that anyone who has the means should always consider doing.
So I'll use a submersible pump I can buy at any home and garden store as a stop gap for the drain, remodel the kitchen which makes the home a little more valuable, and then the drain fix basically pays for it self when the time comes to fix it.
I've just balanced what I want with what I need.
How does this apply to your above ground pool deck project?
If my situation with the drain were yours - and we're all living with the same global economic concerns unless you're doing quite well for yourself - then you should consider giving yourself what you want first... especially if if were to noticeably appreciate the value of a major asset like your home. In this case I'm thinking that thing you want would be your pool deck.
The exception to that being if your need - in this example the drain - became too much of a nuisance to avoid for long.
You might think it difficult to justify paying for a new above ground pool deck in a recession. I'm thinking how can you not?
- Staying home and splashing around in your pool is a big money saver as time moves forward versus traveling the globe or buying the a big flat panel HDTV, neither adding any appreciative value to your assets.
- Remember that according to the National Association of Homebuilders you can recover up to 75% of the cost of your deck construction when you sell your home.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
The Basics of Above Ground Pool Deck Blueprints
When it comes time to put your pool deck plans on paper you should not skip over this step or take it lightly. You'll need to clarify your plan and choose where the final elements of your new pool deck will go.
I've seen too many instances where people disregard this step in the process and then make impulsive decisions during construction that get them way off schedule because they build something that doesn't make code, make a costly mistake, or buy the wrong materials.
Don't be this person. Take your planning seriously. And go one step at a time...
Your local building inspector might also require a plan view or elevation. These will include - to scale - joists, beams, posts, and other key elements of the pool deck. It's the drawing the will most closely resemble above ground pool deck blueprints.
Remember to go one step at a time. And have a good time with it!
All the best,
Paul Ottaviano
More on Blueprints
I've seen too many instances where people disregard this step in the process and then make impulsive decisions during construction that get them way off schedule because they build something that doesn't make code, make a costly mistake, or buy the wrong materials.
Don't be this person. Take your planning seriously. And go one step at a time...
- Create a Base Map
- Do a Site Analysis
- Bubble Plan
- Master Plan
Your local building inspector might also require a plan view or elevation. These will include - to scale - joists, beams, posts, and other key elements of the pool deck. It's the drawing the will most closely resemble above ground pool deck blueprints.
Remember to go one step at a time. And have a good time with it!
All the best,
Paul Ottaviano
More on Blueprints
Saturday, January 12, 2008
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
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
Monday, January 7, 2008
How to Build Pool Deck Stairs
All steps in an above ground pool deck stairway must be the same height and depth. Otherwise, it will make your guests feel clumsy as they try to navigate an unbalanced stairway.
And it could be a safety issue. It could give you problems with the local building inspector if not done correctly.
Here are some initial basics regarding deck stairs to help you get started in the right direction...
Rise and Run refer to the actual physical attributes of the stairs.
RISE: the height from one tread, or step, to the next.
RUN: the depth of each tread, or step, from front to back.
Other terms you might use are "unit rise" and "unit run" referring to the measurements of one step. "Total rise" and "total run" refers to the total vertical and horizontal distance of the stairway.
TYPICAL MEASUREMENTS
A typical pool deck stairway should have a rise of 6" - 8" and a run of 10" - 12".
Know your pool, enjoy your pool!
Best regards,
Paul Ottaviano
And it could be a safety issue. It could give you problems with the local building inspector if not done correctly.
Here are some initial basics regarding deck stairs to help you get started in the right direction...
Rise and Run refer to the actual physical attributes of the stairs.
RISE: the height from one tread, or step, to the next.
RUN: the depth of each tread, or step, from front to back.
Other terms you might use are "unit rise" and "unit run" referring to the measurements of one step. "Total rise" and "total run" refers to the total vertical and horizontal distance of the stairway.
TYPICAL MEASUREMENTS
A typical pool deck stairway should have a rise of 6" - 8" and a run of 10" - 12".
Know your pool, enjoy your pool!
Best regards,
Paul Ottaviano
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