Pool Deck Considerations

[StephL]

Last year we set up our 27 ft round above ground pool, and this year we will be constructing a deck around it. We have a large existing deck off the back of our house, and this new deck will be just off of the existing deck, with a set of stairs connecting. We've designed the pool deck so that we can walk all the way around the pool, for ease of vacuuming, covering, etc. And we've decided that we'd like the pool to go over the top edge instead of under, for various reasons. So, my question now is.....what are some things you added to your pool deck, or wish you had added? I'm thinking a trap door to access the skimmer, enough space around to put our loungers, etc.

Thanks in advance for the advice, and any pictures!!

 

[tpavela]

We have a similar setup. I did do the trap door around the skimmer. I have a picture in the link below.

Our deck is even with the edge and is just along side of the pool all the way around. I'm kind of glad as the deck shifts a little it does not push on the pool - or at least I have had to trim a few boards so it does not push.

http://www.troublefreepool.com/threads/65391-Do-leaves-in-the-pool-create-or-help-Algae-grow

Good luck with your build.

 

[StephL]

Thanks for the picture! Your deck is beautiful. Have you had any issues with people sitting on the edges at all, and pushing down on the sidewalls?

 

[Nectarologist]

Hi StephL. I had a deck around half of my prior above ground and people sitting was not an issue. Their center of gravity seemed to be on the deck itself so it was just their legs w knees bent at the edge of the coping (it was just more comfortable to sit that way). Not enough weight to impact the sidewalls or coping for that matter.

 

[kris77]

not sure how much room you are wanting to leave around the edge of the pool. But i'd go 3' minimum. I was going to go 2' just to have a walkway, but somebody on here talked me into 3' and i'm SO glad they did.

I posted this in another thread a few days ago, but it seems like it fits here too....
New Deck Build. Figured I'd post some pics....

A trap door for the skimmer is in the works for this year. I think i have it figured out but i'm not quite sure yet. I'm going to do something like this though.