woman in hat reading a book on wooden pool deck

Top 30 Beautiful Pool Deck Ideas For Home In 2023

Did you know that swimming is the fourth most popular sport in America? It’s a great way to receive your recommended two and a half hours of weekly aerobic physical activity. Just by participating in this workout routine, you’re decreasing your likelihood of developing chronic illnesses. And if you already have diabetes or heart disease, swimming may also help improve your condition.

Swimmer or not, everyone can appreciate a good pool in an outdoor space. They’re great for hosting events, relaxing on a hot day, or even doing laps to stay in shape. But what makes a pool stand out is a well-designed deck. It’s a must-have feature for a big backyard with a swimming pool.

Pool Decking Materials

woman in black swimsuit sitting on wood pool decking at sunset
Photo by Roberto Nickson on Unsplash

A concrete pool decking surrounding your swimming pool is a popular choice because it’s such a durable material that allows for customization. Wood and composite decking materials are often used around above-ground swimming pools.

If you enjoy basking in the sun or hosting get-togethers, you need a few deck ideas for pools to turn your home into the perfect outdoor oasis.

Decking has been used for centuries in boat building.  It only became popular for at-home patios and decks in the 1960s when Americans wanted an indoor-outdoor extension to their homes. Its lightweight build and aesthetics make it a desirable material for this type of project.

List Of 30Pool Deck Ideas At Home

above-ground pool deck in wood with stairs
Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

Investing in a pool is your chance to realize your dream vision, and you want to ensure you get the most out of it. Considering the size, shape, material choices, and location are top priorities. While mulling over several swimming pool ideas, you should also think about pool deck ideas.

Adding a pool deck is the perfect way to enhance your outdoor swimming area while adding a few practical touches. Here are 25 pool deck ideas to help you create the ideal environment for your next backyard pool project.

Over time, decking has broadened, and it is now commonly used for a patio or roof terrace. 

Additionally, the materials used have improved. In the past, decks were made of lower-quality hardwoods; however, now, they are constructed with eco-friendly recycled materials to develop a durable composite wood pool deck. To give it a modern appeal, pool owners also play around with different stains and widths.

Here are some pool deck ideas you may want to consider for your above-ground pool at home.

1. Composite Deck for Round Above Ground Pools

The walk-in stairs are the unique features of this pool deck design. It enhances its overall visual appeal and makes it more elegant while giving it an inground pool feel. The design also saves you a considerable amount on landscaping and fencing expenses. You also get to increase the outdoor living room of your home without necessarily resorting to a costly and complicated inground pool installation project.

This above-ground pool deck design is ideal for those with hilly or sloped backyards. You can use it for a square or circular pool. If you have an inground pool, you’ll need around nine truckloads of fill dirt to start the project. You’ll also need a grading plan and engineer’s study before finding a builder to get the job done.

2. Elevated Garden Design

An elevated garden design for the pool deck is a great way to make the most of your small backyard space. Adding planters and raised beds can create a beautiful garden that will provide shade and privacy for your pool area.

Although a pool is often the star backyard feature, the other elements make an outdoor living area inviting. These elements include comfortable furniture, a dining area, shading options, and lovely landscaping. Lounge chairs can turn an elevated garden into a cozy covered seating area.

3. Above-Ground Pool with Terraced Deck

Another backyard makeover consists of a terraced deck and a sunken pool area. If you’re looking for a way to change the appearance of an above-ground pool, try sinking it into a wooden deck. Adding contrasting stamped concrete and grass around the perimeter will make your pool stand out.

The terraced deck can also act as a seating area. You can also install jets to provide hydrotherapy sessions for your sore muscles. If your landscape design does not allow you to install an inground pool, this is a good way to create a backyard oasis in your home.

4. Partial Platform for an Above-Ground Pool

If you’re building a new pool in the backyard for the warm months, you should also consider setting up a platform for the pool deck. Building a partial platform around your pool will provide easy access for swimmers and act as a seating area for family and guests. This pool deck design is ideal for backyard pools surrounded by natural landscaping.

You can also give it contrasting colors to make it more visible and safe for everyone. The materials used are also a factor in making it last longer. This particular style is also popular because of its cost-to-benefit ratio. It is also ideal for any pool design.

5. Above-Ground Pool with Wood Deck and Safety Fence

If you have kids in the house, you know that a pool can be both a blessing and a curse. A pool is a great place to cool off and have fun but it can also be a safety hazard. An above-ground pool with a wood deck and safety fence is the perfect solution for keeping your family safe while having an enjoyable time under the summer sun.

The safety fence should go around the pool, and the gate should have a self-closing hinge and a self-locking latch. This will keep kids from getting into the pool without adult supervision. The deck provides a great place to relax and enjoy the view while the safety fence keeps everyone safe.

6. Minimalist Pool Deck

Wood decks are an ideal option if you’re looking for a natural and warm aesthetic for your pool. However, it’s important to note that even when using high-quality wood, there is still the potential risk of rotting or fading over time. That means regular upkeep may be necessary if you wish to maintain its vibrancy year after year. 

There are other alternatives, such as composite materials, which not only offer customizable patterns but also retain their durability due to industrial production standards.

7. Fluid Deck Design

To blend in with a landscape, such as a hillside, you may require an organic pool with no sharp edges or linear lines. You can find the perfect inspiration for this concept from this lovely swimming pool overlooking an exquisite canyon – its alluring curves and gentle shapes seamlessly transition between the natural setting and deck area to create one harmonious whole.

8. Black and White Pool Deck

This pool deck has everything – from the alfresco seating to the serene sounds of three water features. However, its most captivating feature is the dark tiles that line the spa and garden area. The stark contrast between these tiles and the rest of this outdoor paradise perfectly mirrors your home’s exterior ambiance.

9. Elevated Garden Pool Deck

Transform your outdoor space into a serene oasis with the perfect addition of a swimming pool! This backyard highlights everything you need to make any time spent in it as enjoyable and relaxing as possible. From an elevated garden to provide stunning views, shade from covered seating, and lush landscaping – this backyard has all the elements for creating that ultimate sanctuary.

10. Wood Composite Pool Deck

Enjoy the same anti-slip qualities of natural wood without worrying about splinters, rotting, or any other discomforts due to composite wood. You can savor all these benefits while knowing you’re not compromising on appearance and feel – as it replicates natural wood in its entirety!

11. Efficient Narrow Pool Deck

Despite its limited size, this pool deck optimizes the space. A tasteful tassel umbrella for shade and a hand-picked outdoor rug alongside several pieces of furniture help to tie everything together. Furthermore, the bricks on the flooring bring an eye-catching pop of color and texture that enhances the atmosphere in this outdoor area.

12. Irregular Pool Deck Design

Enhance the rustic vibes of your country home with an irregular-shaped pool. Add a water feature to complete its look, and choose natural stones for decking material – this way. You will achieve harmony between your backyard’s landscape and the traditional style of the house. Slab stones work wonderfully well because they add texture to the area while complementing the countryside ambiance. With their uneven patterns, these stone slabs give off a unique yet charming feel that makes them an ideal choice for any outdoor space!

13. Functional Backyard Pool Deck

Transform your small backyard into the tranquil retreat of your dreams! Place lounge chairs in the sun for a perfect tanning experience, or seek shelter under a shady area created with herringbone brick patterned accents. Divide both areas with an inviting wild garden to make it seem more spacious than before.

14. Concrete Pool Deck Design

Concrete is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a sturdy and reliable pool decking option that won’t require extensive maintenance. It is one of the most economical materials out there, and its strength increases with time, making it ideal for modern pool designs. Plus, when using this material, you can rest easy knowing that costly upkeep costs will not burden your budget!

15. Boho-Style Pool Deck

Transform your outdoor space into an oasis with luxe lounge chairs, plush rugs, and plenty of pillows! Create a backyard Boho-style living room perfect for lounging in the sun, napping in comfort, or simply enjoying meals al fresco. Invite friends over to enjoy hours of relaxation by the pool without ever having to leave home.

16. Wood Tiles Pool Deck

If you want to incorporate distinct elements into your pool area, why not combine several materials for your decks? This particular design idea features two different deck types. On the far sides, tiled decks provide a solid and classic look, while wooden decks on the front give off more contemporary vibes and create a warm atmosphere. Combining these two components will harmoniously balance character with charm!

17. Monochromatic Pool Deck

Despite its smaller size, the white aesthetic of this backyard pool gives it an expansive and airy vibe. Additionally, with plush seating pillows and a table for dining or conversation, you can relax in the sun or host intimate gatherings without ever leaving your home!

18. Side Deck Design

As you can tell from the list, decks normally come with pools. However, this isn’t a necessity! If you want to avoid investing in a permanent pool for your backyard, then side decks may be ideal, as they’re affordable and won’t break the bank. On the other hand, if you wish to join an existing deck with a new pool – it may cost more but is still within reach financially!

19. Backyard Playset

Allow your children to play on the backyard playset that sits perfectly in harmony with the wood pool deck while you take a dip. With only stairs leading down into the pool’s shallow end, this feature is perfect for families prioritizing safety first!

20. Japanese-Inspired Pool Deck

Wooden decks are an excellent option if you want your pool to exude warm, natural tones. However, these materials require frequent upkeep and maintenance to protect against rot or splintering – it also needs regular staining to preserve their hue. Fortunately, there is a more long-lasting alternative: composite wood materials that not only last for years but are fade-proof and have low maintenance levels too!

21. Stone Border Design

Enjoy the sun in style with these two lounge chairs on this cozy, curved pool deck. The teak outdoor furniture and striped pool umbrella give a vintage aesthetic, while the stone detail border contrasts the rest of your backyard’s sleek design.

22. Infinity Pool Deck

Whether large or small, infinity pools make a powerful visual statement in your garden, and when situated correctly, they present the best way to take pleasure in nature’s beauty. For instance, a small infinity pool with its breathtaking view of rolling hills and valleys – an invaluable feature that should not be overlooked! The coolest part? This pool deck is crafted from various materials which elegantly link the round shape of the pool seamlessly with its scenic surroundings – truly making it one-of-a-kind.

23. Tropical Pool Deck Design

Imagine you’re on a luxurious vacation when exploring this tropical backyard! The deck’s centerpiece is the outdoor sofa with a palm leaf pattern, and golden barrel cacti accents create an incredible texture. It’s certain to make guests feel like they’ve been transported far away from home.

24. Outdoor Kitchen and Dining

If you’re looking for a picturesque spot to share a meal with family and friends, this spacious outdoor kitchen will be your go-to. Gray stone floor tiles provide the perfect foundation, while an ornate glass wall adds safety and style simultaneously to separate the dining area from the rest of your pool deck.

25. Rustic Pool Deck Design

Enhance the look of your pool with stunning decking materials. They can add a unique flair to its design and seamlessly integrate it into the landscape. Take this luxurious infinity swimming pool, for example; using rustic-looking wood decking, it effortlessly ties together modern elements and natural surroundings. The wooden material helps create a smooth transition from contemporary designs to nature’s charm that you won’t get anywhere else!

26. Contemporary Pool Deck

Elevate the look of your backyard by blending a modern minimalist pool with an elegant wooden deck. Connecting them using tile decks will add visual depth and a dynamic aesthetic to the area, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages you to spend time outdoors in this oasis. In short, this combination will make your weekend lounging sessions especially cozy!

27. Oval Pool Deck

This is a budget-friendly option for combining a backyard deck and pool. As you can see in this example, the backyard space has been utilized to create an oval pool that serves as a deck for outdoor activities. Creating just one structure for two purposes saves you considerable money – providing style and practicality!

28. Modern Pool Deck

Historians have stated that concrete is one of the greatest inventions, propelling humanity from agricultural civilization into industrial and modern society. In pool decking terms, this invention allows for flexible designs and strength over time – it only gets stronger with more curing. Additionally, you can layer your surface with other materials to get varied looks or textures if desired! Using concrete on a pool deck offers pool owners never-ending possibilities for improvement.

29. Luxurious Poold Deck Design

Are you seeking something unique to add to your luxurious yet minimalist home? If so, this stunning above-ground pool could be the answer. Featuring a concrete and glass structure that complements the overall theme of your home, it also includes a small wooden deck with three shades – perfect for lounging in! An expansive back garden deck doubles as the pool’s access area. In short, everything you need for some fun in the sun!

30. Wraparound Pool Deck

Investing in a pool kit or any other portable and inflatable pool kit has many advantages. Firstly, you can place your chosen model right in the middle of your garden without permanently fixing it – allowing easy access whenever you wish! Secondly, if you’re ever hoping to rearrange the layout of your garden a bit, then neither will this pose much difficulty as uninstalling these kits is just as straightforward. Finally, why not add some extra pizazz by surrounding the area with decking? This also has proven popular amongst users and adds a classy touch.

Things To Consider When Building A Pool Deck

house on hill with concrete pool decking
Photo by Sterling Davis on Unsplash

A pool deck is perfect for enjoying the water and relaxing with friends or family. While there are many different ways to design your dream pool deck, all great decks share a few essential elements. Consider these critical points when working with a reputable contractor to bring your vision to life.

The Landscape of the Property

One thing you should consider when building a pool deck is your property’s landscape. Consider building a deck that wraps around the entire pool if you have a large backyard. This will give you more space to entertain and relax. You can still build a beautiful deck if your yard is smaller but consider a more simplistic design. Installing artificial turf is also a good idea since it can give your poolside the illusion of a larger space.

The Shape of the Pool

The shape of your pool will also play a role in the design of your pool deck. Consider a more traditional deck design if you have a rectangular or square pool. However, if you have a free-form or oblong-shaped pool, you should get creative with your deck design. You’ll want to ensure that your deck compliments the shape of your pool and doesn’t take away from its natural beauty.

The Materials You Use

When designing your pool deck, you must choose the materials you want. You’ll have different options, from wood to concrete to composite materials. You’ll need to decide what material will best complement your deck’s and your home’s design. You’ll also need to consider the maintenance required for each type of material. Wood decks, for example, require more maintenance than concrete decks.

The Cost of Building a Pool Deck

Another essential factor to consider when building a pool deck is the cost. The cost of your deck will depend on the materials you use and the size of your deck. The complexity of the design can also add to the costs of building the deck. You’ll need to work with your contractor to get an accurate estimate of the cost of your deck.

Bottom Line

No matter what kind of pool deck you are looking for, there is something out there to fit your needs and style. The possibilities are endless, from contemporary concrete designs to rustic wood decks, inflatable kits with wraparound pieces, or boho-style seating areas! Whether you’re seeking a luxurious escape in your backyard or simply want an efficient way to enjoy sunbathing, finding the right design idea will help create a personal paradise that all can enjoy. With these inspiring ideas, it’s time to get creative and start designing the perfect pool deck today!

Frequently Asked Questions

1) What is a good size pool deck?

Your pool deck’s size will depend on the size and type of pool you have and what activities you plan to do on it. Generally speaking, larger decks provide plenty of space for seating, lounging around the pool, and hosting events.

2) What type of decking is best around a pool?

The type of decking you choose for your pool will depend on your budget, style preferences, and climate. Popular options include wood, composite wood, concrete, stone slabs, and tile decks.

3) How much do I need to invest in setting up a pool deck at home?

Constructing an above-ground pool deck offers the perfect summertime oasis that adds appeal and convenience to your backyard. A pool deck can range from $3,000 to $12,000, depending on its dimensions and materials used.

4) How do you make a pool kid friendly?

One popular option is to add a shallow area where they can splash and play with easy access to the ladder. Additionally, install safety fences and railings with stable locks that meet local regulations.

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