27 Above-Ground Pools With Decks for Your Outdoor Space

This weatherproof deck is a great place to dry off after a swim or provides a place to sit and dip your toes in. A nearby sitting area is great to watch the kids play in the pool or for relaxing with a glass of wine after a day of swimming.

How to Design and Build an Above-Ground Pool Deck

So, you’ve finally decided to break ground for a new above-ground pool. Congratulations! Chances are, if you’re installing a new pool, you’ll likely want a beautiful new deck to accompany your latest backyard acquisition. However, designing a deck for an above-ground pool is a little different than designing a deck that exists off the side of your home or patio.

Before you cannonball into the deep end of above-ground pool ownership and building a deck, it’s important to consider some of the hidden costs and plan accordingly. This way, you can set aside an ample budget for your project and head off any future problems at the pass.

What to Consider When Designing a Deck for Above-Ground Pools

Here are some questions to consider before you decide to DIY or enlist a professional to draft a plan for your above-ground pool deck:

Should you hire a professional deck builder or DIY?

The first, and biggest, decision you have to make is whether you want to try your hand at building an above-ground pool deck yourself, or if it makes more sense to hire a contractor. Consider your construction skill level, the amount of time you have to complete the project, and your budget. No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of tutorials and resources online, such as our Decks.com DIY deck building guide. You can also easily find a contractor near you.

Install your pool before you build your deck

Don’t build the deck first and hope it fits around the pool you choose. While above-ground pools have standard wall heights (48”, 52” and 54”), every pool will be slightly different. Don’t take a chance on building a deck and not having it work with the new aquatic centerpiece of your backyard.

Budget for fencing around your pool

Any yard that has a pool must also have a fence as a safety precaution. Regulations on how high fences around pools vary between states and municipalities. Be sure your fence complies with local building codes before breaking ground. If you don’t already have a fence, be sure you earmark part of your pool and deck building budget to include the construction or installation of one.

Build your deck as close to your pool as possible

Perfectly aligning your pool’s decking boards with the lip of your pool is not only an attractive design feature, it’s a great safety feature, too. It keeps the ground level for those getting in and out of the pool and can help minimize trips and falls over any pieces that jut out.

Run decking boards beneath your pool rails

At some point in the distant future, your pool may need its liner changed out. If your deck hasn’t been planned correctly, your installer may need to cut your deck to change the liner, ruining a beautifully constructed deck. To future proof your deck build, take into account that most above-ground pools have a top railing that either screws or snaps into place on the pool’s frame. Running deck boards beneath your pool rails can make it easier for an installer to remove them to change your liner without having to cut into your deck.

The best plan is to have a conversation with the pool installer. Ask him how the deck must be installed, its height, required gapping, etc., so he can change the liner out with a minimum of effort in the future.

Build a separate structure to house your pool equipment

Many people opt to place their pumps and filters beneath their above-ground pool deck. While it looks neater and protects your equipment from the elements, it can make it much harder to maintain the equipment that keeps your pool clean and functioning. Instead, situate your equipment to the side of your deck to ensure easy access and make . To keep the equipment out of sight, you can build a smaller structure to contain your pumps, filters, and equipment. (Pro tip: Repurpose any waste lumber or composite boards leftover from constructing your deck to build housing to keep your pool equipment out of sight.)

It’s important to realize some mechanical equipment might need airflow so motors and pumps don’t overheat. Check the installation manuals on all pool equipment to ensure a structure will not void the warranty or cause premature failure.

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Above-Ground Pool Deck Ideas and Shapes

One of the things you will need to decide on early in the process is the shape of your pool — and your pool deck. From round pool decks to rectangular pool decks, you have a number of options to choose from.

Circular or Round Above-Ground Pool Deck

Most above-ground pool decks wrap around a circular or oval-shaped pool. Stairs provide access to a platform to enter the pool and relax on poolside furniture.

Oval Above-Ground Pool Deck

An oval above-ground pool deck is pleasing to the eye for starters. It complements the circular shape of most above-ground pools. The disadvantage is an oval pool deck can be more difficult to build than a standard rectangle due to its curves.

Rectangular Above-Ground Pool Deck

The biggest benefit of a rectangular pool deck is the ease of construction. Anyone with basic DIY skills who can read and follow instructions should be able to complete this project.

Irregular or Kidney Shaped Pool Deck

A kidney-shaped deck can add lots of sizzle to the overall visual appeal of a pool. That said, achieving a kidney-shaped design can increase installation difficulty by perhaps 4X that of an oval-shaped pool deck.

How to Build an Above-Ground Pool

Decks constructed around above-ground should not be attached to the pool for stability, meaning the deck should be sufficiently stable in all directions by itself, without requiring any lateral or vertical support from the pool. The structure is essentially just a freestanding deck adjacent to the pool. For most above-ground pools, these decks will be anywhere between 3 to 6 feet above the ground and must be laterally braced from the beams/joists to the bottom of the posts. Cross-bracing in these regions and in both axes (north/south, east/west or such) is necessary. At common pool heights, embedding posts in the foundations will not be sufficient for lateral restraint.

New building codes addressing decks around pools should also be considered. The maximum gap between the decking and the pool coping is generally 3/4 inch. Slip resistance, gaps between boards and slope of the deck may also be regulated depending on the local codes. These design requirements should also be considered for any deck adjacent swimming pools or hot tubs, whether in or above ground.

Ideally, the pool deck should be built directly under the lip of the pool edge. It is best to set a series of segmented beams and footings about 2′ from the edge of the pool to support around the curved sides. It is a good practice to install joist tape over the top of joists to protect from standing water. Installing a self-closing gate may be required to prevent access for unsupervised children. Installing extra blocking will reinforce the frame because of the added activity and variety of uses on pool decks.

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Get Started with Above-Ground Pool Deck Plans

Having a gorgeous deck can enhance the enjoyment factor, giving you space to lounge poolside and make the most of your new swimming pool. However, keep an open mind when planning, and don’t feel tied to a specific design or material if it’s not within your budget. A knowledgeable, trustworthy builder can help guide you in the right direction and help you strike the right balance that you, your family, and guests will enjoy for years to come.

Check out our free pool deck plans to get started. You can also find a deck builder or shop for materials.

27 Above-Ground Pools With Decks for Your Outdoor Space

Create a relaxing oasis with these inspiring above-ground pool with deck ideas.

Stacy is an expert writer for The Spruce covering home DIY projects and crafts. She has over 18 years of journalistic experience, appearing as a DIY expert on the Dr. Oz Show and several radio shows. She has published hundreds of articles and co-authored a book.

Farima Ferguson began her career at HGTV where she worked with designers to write about home design. Her work has appeared in HGTV, Insider Reviews, Travel Channel, and more.

An above-ground pool with a deck is an affordable and easier-to-install alternative to an in-ground swimming pool. Adding a deck will help to make your above-ground pool look integrated with your outdoor space while adding functionality by creating a dedicated place for lounging.

Whether you plan to DIY it or hire someone to build a deck for you, here are 27 ideas for above-ground pools with decks that will offer you the space you need to bask in the joy of your backyard swimming hole.

Modern Fence and Deck

Here’s an above-ground pool that has had a deck and fence put around it. It creates a modern look and is perfect for privacy concerns. There are also comfortable pool loungers and large potted plants that decorate around the pool.

Scrap Wood Deck

This pool is meant to be a baby pool but everyone is sure to enjoy it when the weather gets warm enough. Scrap wood was used to build the small deck that allows for easy access in and out of the pool.

Dreamy Deck

How about this dreamy setup? A deck with stairs have been added so it’s easy to get in and out of the pool. There’s a tutorial here that will show you how to build a stock pool deck.

Partial Deck and Edging

This project goes to show you that you don’t need a full wrap-around deck. A partial deck like this one still gives you a place to get in and out of the pool, lounge, or keep items for storage. There’s also an edging her built with pavers and rock that really is an upgrade.

Large Pool Deck for Parties

There’s enough seating and shades here for a nice-sized get-together, all surrounding this unique storage container pool. Rocks are added beside the pool and party lights are strung above.

Hexagonal Above-Ground Pool

A hexagonal above-ground pool adds some modern geometry to this outdoor space from Ann Living, with a matching deck and staircase to access it from the gravel patio area below.

Pool Deck With Gated Access

Add a gate or fence between the pool and the deck to keep kids or pets from accidentally going where they aren’t supposed to. Choose a wood for the gate that matches your deck or deck railing to create a seamless look.

Added Stairs and Railing

There was already a deck here connected to the above-ground pool. There’s just enough room to get in and out of the pool and sit a few loungers with a table. Stairs and railing were just added to make the space even more functional.

Plunge Pool Deck

This beautiful plunge pool is surrounded by a large deck that connects it the house. The deck is clean and modern and looks great with the home. The deck is big enough to give you lots of room for lounging about.

Sophisticated Deck

This beautiful deck has been built around an above-ground pool and feels more like an extension of the home than a separate outdoor space. There’s plenty of comfy seating and shade for relaxing.

Matching Deck and Fence

Even a small backyard can be transformed into a relaxing oasis. This townhome’s backyard got an instant upgrade with a small round pool tiled in Cuban Blend Ceramics. The small deck leading up to the pool matches the fence for a clean, contemporary look.

Make It High-End

Above-ground pools have come along way since their inception. House of Harvee’s above-ground pool is surrounded with beautiful tiles that bring the colors of the white wall and bamboo accent wall together. A half glass wall separates the pool for safety without compromising on style, and a nearby lounge bed is the perfect place to take a nap in the sun after going for a dip.

Add a Gazebo

With an above-ground pool like this, you can host summertime gatherings for all your friends and family. The deck has plenty of space for people to sunbathe while the nearby gazebo houses an outdoor kitchen perfect for summer cookouts.

Weatherproof Deck

This weatherproof deck is a great place to dry off after a swim or provides a place to sit and dip your toes in. A nearby sitting area is great to watch the kids play in the pool or for relaxing with a glass of wine after a day of swimming.

Modular Pool Design

If you have room for a lap pool, a modular pool is a great option. It’s more budget-friendly and has a modern look many above-ground pools don’t have. This 20-foot pool by Tangle Pools features a deck that goes the entire length of the pool, providing plenty of room for lounge chairs and other outdoor furniture.

Easily Accessible

If you want an outdoor pool because swimming is an exercise that’s easy on the joints, getting into the pool should be easy, too. This custom deck by T.B. Construction Inc. features ramps so you can easily get in and out of the pool.

Pool Deck With Backrest

This above-ground pool from Herzen Stimme includes wood decking and a built-in backrest made of matching wood that creates a seating area for sunning with your feet in the pool.

Easy DIY Deck

A custom pool deck doesn’t require advanced skills. You can create a deck and privacy wall using 2x4s or wood pallets. This stock tank pool sits perfectly flush against this wood seating area that’s great for reading or sunbathing.

Small Seating Area

Long gone are the days where you had to climb into an above-ground pool. The advancement of pools today allow you to customize the type of deck you want so you can get the most out of your backyard. We love this small deck that leads up to the pool and has room for a comfortable bench.

The Bigger, The Better

This split-level deck serves dual purpose: The upper level gives you easy access to the above-ground pool while the lower level can house patio furniture, an outdoor grill and even a backyard game or two.

Multi-Level Deck Surround

How do you incorporate a flagstone patio with a new above-ground swimming pool? While beautiful and durable, walking on flagstone pavers in bare feet isn’t exactly a pleasant experience. These deck builders came up with a smart solution that eases the transition from flagstones to pool: a multilevel deck that creates a surround for the pool, giving it the appearance of an in-ground model. The wood decking is much kinder on swimmers’ bare feet and is more anti-slip than flagstones are. The deck levels also serve as low, wide steps leading up to the pool deck and can be used as casual seating or a place to dry off after swimming.

Concrete Pool Deck

This small above-ground courtyard pool from Fantastic Frank is rendered in concrete, creating a modern patio-like feel that matches the courtyard flooring for a seamless look. The sleek concrete above-ground pool and integrated deck adds modern contrast with the traditional Mediterranean building.

Landscape an Open Side

The 30-minute “No Swimming After You Eat” rule doesn’t have to apply here when you have a large deck with an outdoor dining area right off the above-ground pool. Wildflowers surround the large pool to help it blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings.

No Lifeguard on Duty

If your community pool is too crowded, an above-ground pool in your own backyard is the way to go. Especially if you can install it right by your existing deck. Add a couple lounge chairs and you have your very own private pool on a budget.

Luxurious Curved Deck

This above-ground pool proves you can have the look of a traditional pool without the hassle and cost of one. The curved tile deck provides plenty of room for lounging and potted plants and a dolphin statue makes you feel like you’re at your favorite resort.

Enclosed Above-Ground Pool

Built on a platform with a surrounding deck and fence, this pool area from the San Antonio Above Ground Pool and Spa Company becomes a private paradise. Swimmers and sunbathers can hang out at this backyard spot for hours, with space to lounge in and out of the pool as they please. The high walls provide a little added seclusion, which is something most residential pool owners desire. And the oval sunken above-ground pool has a look of permanence.

Colorful Above-Ground Pool

A bright orange circular above-ground pool styled with orange and white seating and accessories is contrasted by a simple wood deck in this desert backyard space from Dazey Den.

How much does it cost to build an above-ground pool with a deck?

According to Angi, the cost of an above-ground pool with a deck ranges from $3,000 to $12,000. This figure will vary according to the type and size of your above-ground pool and deck, the kind of terrain that makes up your outdoor space, and the cost of materials and labor in your area. Keep in mind that building it yourself will take time but save money.

Does an above-ground pool with a deck add value to your home?

Because above-ground pools are considered temporary structures that can be disassembled and moved like other personal property, they are often not included in the appraisal of a home unless expressly stated. According to Angi, above-ground pools do not add value to homes and may even turn off buyers who may consider them an eyesore.

What is the best deck material for an above-ground pool?

Swimming pool decks and surrounds can be constructed in a range of materials. The best choice of material for an above-ground pool deck depends on your style, budget, and availability of materials. Popular materials for above-ground pool decks include wood, composite decking, and plastic.

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