How to Create Pool and Hot Tub Decks

By admin0 | September 9, 2007

A wood surface looks great next to water. Pool and hot tub decks can add comfort and safety and will withstand years of use in their wet surroundings if maintained properly. A hot tub or pool surround can be part of a larger deck comlex. Level changes or privacy walls may be used to isolate that part of the deck. A deck has the ability to make it easy to access the water while masking the less attractive profile of a pool or hot tub.

Pools and hot tubs both require electrical and plumbing connections which can be hidden by the deck’s framing. It is vital to provide easy access to these spaces either from beneath the deck or through an access panel on the deck surface. Many municipalities have strict regulations that apply to fencing around hot tubs and pools. With careful design planning it is possible to combined the required fencing with a deck railing system.

A pool or hot tub surround built as a deck is a great way to create extra activity space especially when the ground slopes down and away from either one. When possible it is an important consideration to construct the deck while the pool or hot tub is empty to avoid operating power tools around water.

A wood deck surface around an inground pool can be an elegant alternative to concrete, flagstones or other masonry materials. Decking can cover the entire pool perimeter but materials can be combined so that bathers have a choice of wood or masonry to walk or lounge on. On hot days a light colored tile will provide a cool spot while on most days bathers will prefer the warmth of wood. A pool with an aging concrete slab can be updated by constructing a new wood deck on top of the concrete. This will work well as long as the concrete is still basically sound. This deck can be built right up to the edge of the pool by extending joists along the perimeter and then cutting the decking to fit the pool shape exactly. If the area around the pool is open ground then standard footings and piers can be used to support the deck.

In order to construct a deck over the concrete slab, install 2×4 pressure treated sleepers on the concrete surface. Space the sleepers like joists on 16 inch centers. Fasten them to the concrete using masonry screws. Drill pilot holes through the sleepers. Mark for the locations of the holes in the concrete. Drill the concrete holes with a masonry bit and then reposition the sleepers. Drive the masonry screws into place. Leave gaps between the sleepers along the proposed deck perimeter tallow for drainage. Use pressure treated shims to fill in low spots between the sleepers and the concrete. Install the decking in the standard way with rustproof screws or nails and then trim the decking to follow the contours of the pool.

A raised deck surrounding an above ground pool or hot tub can offset their sometimes unsightly appearances by providing a more pleasant transition between surfaces. A raised deck can provide more of the illusion and convenience of an inground pool. It also works well to hide and protect the electrical, plumbing and filtering equipment of the above ground pool or hot tub. Raised decking that surrounds a hot tub or above ground pool makes it easier to use and more fun. Platforms can be made large enough for deck furniture for relaxing and sunning between dips.

When possible use a raised deck to coonect the pool with an access door to the house. In many cases this will require level changes to deal with the different heights of the pool and doorway. When not possible, construct a freestanding structure with a set of stairs.

In creating decks around pools and hot tubs it is important to select high quality wood that is rot resistant, smooth and splinter free so that bathers will be comfortable walking or sitting on it. Heartwood of cedar or redwood are good choices before #1 grade pressure treated wood. Replace nails or screws that start to pop up. Seal the decking surface annually to protect it from moisture. Sweep it regularly to keep stones and twigs off the surface.

Pool and hot tub decks are great additions to the overall landscape design. They can provide new opportunities to relax and enjoy the outdoor living area as well as add aesthetic appeal to the home and yard.

Topics: Pool and hot tub decks |