Add a deck to your above ground swimming pool and add safety.
A wooden deck can make your above ground swimming pool safe and easy to get into. Generally the ladder provided for your pool is not that safe. The pool would be a lot more fun with a deck around it.
You will need to get a rough idea of what you want. Do you want a narrow deck all the way around, or do you want a wide one halfway around the pool, or do you want a combination of both? Once you have decided on a basic shape for your deck get a piece of graph paper, let each square represent a square foot and draw it. Outline the pool in the center, and then mark out where the deck will be. This diagram will be the basis for your deck.
Tools:
*Tape Measure
Circular Saw with a new blade
Level
Power Drill with a screwdriver bit
Materials:
* Enough 2x4's to complete the project, based on your measurements. Pine or Redwood is good, and they must be pressure treated. (Purchase extra just in case.) These will be used not only as the base and floor, but also the deck railing. Take that into account when purchasing your wood.
* Enough pressure treated 4x4's, based on your diagram to reach from the deck anchor to the bottom of the deck.
* Two stair stringers, 5 to 7 steps depending upon the distance you need to travel and the angle.
* Stair slats, 2x6 or 2x8, also pressure treated.
* Lattice to surround the deck, optional.
* Deck Anchors, purchase the exact number required based on your graphed plan.
*A large box of 2 ½ inch long treated deck screws.
* Galvanized "Strong tie" connectors, to connect the sections of your deck together.
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Now you are ready to begin.
Measure the 4x4's carefully, cut them to the exact measurement. Remember MEASURE TWICE, CUT ONCE. Set aside.
The deck itself will need to be built and assembled in sections. These sections should be no longer than 6 to 8 feet, and no wider than 3 to 4 feet. That way a couple of people will be able to lift the section and place it on the base.
Measure and cut the 2x4's for the deck frame and support braces. The support braces will run across the length, or width of the deck, at selected intervals, generally not more than 36 inches apart. These will be anchor points for the floor of the deck.
Then measure and cut the floor slats, you may place them side by side or leave a slight gap, either way is fine. Set these aside.
Measure and cut your railing pieces, 36 inches for the uprights. The cross pieces will be the length of the outside edge of the deck, cut enough for the top and the bottom.
Measure the stair slats, and cut them to 36 inches.
Set everything aside.
Start with the first section. Connect the frame at the corners using two screws. Alternate butt ends inside and outside for strength. When the frame is done, screw the support braces into place at the appropriate intervals. Then attach the floor slats, do skimp on the screws, use two per support brace. The section is now complete, move on to the next one.
When you have finished all of sections, level the area for the deck as best you can. Place the deck anchors in their place according to the plan.
Have a friend (or group of friends) help you to place the deck frame on the anchors. Make sure the 2x4's go into the slots in the anchors. Use your level to make sure it is level, and shore up any place that is not. Attach the sections together with galvanized "strong tie" connectors.
Once you have connected your sections, you will need to determine where the stairs are going to go. Attach the stringers to the bottom of the deck, about 36 inches apart. Then make sure the angle is not to steep and place a 2x4 at the bottom for stability. Place the step slats across the stringers and screw them down.
Next attach the deck railing. Place the 36 inch high 2x4's upright at 36 inch intervals along the outer edge of the deck. Secure them with several screws. Place more 2x4's across the top of these, with the 4 inch side down. Screw them into place. Then across the bottom of the uprights, about 5 inches up from the floor of the deck place some more 2x4's to act as bracing. Pressure treated lattice may be placed in between the top and bottom of the railing for decoration.
When your deck is complete, do not forget to protect it. Use a good quality waterproof stain. This will need to be done every year to keep your deck in tip top shape.
