Build An Above-Ground Pool Deck Step-By-Step

pool brush laying on decking beside the pool
What You'll Need
4x4 pressure treated posts
2x10 pressure treated lumber
1x6 pressure treated planking
Galvanized framing nails
Galvanized deck screws
2x10 Strong-Ties
Post hole digger
Fast setting concrete
Wheelbarrow
Shovel
Framing square
4 foot and 2 foot level
Tape measure
Circular saw
Work gloves
Safety glasses
What You'll Need
4x4 pressure treated posts
2x10 pressure treated lumber
1x6 pressure treated planking
Galvanized framing nails
Galvanized deck screws
2x10 Strong-Ties
Post hole digger
Fast setting concrete
Wheelbarrow
Shovel
Framing square
4 foot and 2 foot level
Tape measure
Circular saw
Work gloves
Safety glasses

An above-ground pool deck is a great way to transform your backyard pool into a place your friends and family can enjoy. A deck makes your pool more accessible and can add extra space for dining, grilling, or just relaxing poolside.

Building an above-ground pool deck can be a challenging task and is recommended for people with some framing and carpentry experience. If you feel up to the challenge, you can create your own deck using the materials and steps below.

Step 1 - Install the Support Posts

The first step in building an above-ground pool deck is to mark and install your support posts based on the deck design. It is important to remember when cutting posts to size that each one should be set at least two feet below grade. Depending on the number of posts you have to set it might be a wise idea to rent a power auger to handle the digging. The average worker can hand-dig and set about six to eight posts a day. Once you've dug all the holes you can begin mixing the concrete and set each of the posts. Use the four foot level to make sure that each post is plumb. Let them set overnight before you install the framework.

Step 2 - Build the Frame

deck around part of an above ground pool

The frame will consist of two equally-sized squares made up of two 2x10 pieces of lumber nailed together. If you’ve spaced your support posts correctly each square should rest firmly on the support posts. Be sure to use post caps to properly secure the framing to the top of the support post. The two sides of each square should meet at the center of the deck supported by 4x4 posts. This will make up the center support beam of the deck. You can than fill in the boxes with 2x10 floor joists cut to length and spaced 16 inches on center. Use the galvanized nails and Strong-Ties on each end of the joist to ensure a long lasting installation.

Step 3 - Install the Decking

To install the planking you’ll need the screw gun, circular saw, and deck screws. Cut each piece of 1x6 taking care to make a square cut so that when two pieces butt together it forms a tight joint. Install the planking using (2) deck screws for every joist. Take care to space the screws evenly apart and use a deck screw as a “spacer” between each 1x6 to ensure a uniform look.

Step 4 - Install the Railing

Installing the railing for an above-ground pool deck can be relatively easy if you use pre-assembled railing sections. These can be found at most home improvement suppliers. Space the posts out according to the length of a full section of railing. For example, if the rail section is six feet long and the run is 14 feet long than the railing will consist of two full sections plus a one-foot section on each side. You can cut the railing to length using a circular saw and mount them to the post using specialized hardware.