Imagine sipping a refreshing drink by the pool on a chilly winter day, surrounded by the sounds of laughter and splashing water. For many families, having a pool is a dream come true, and it’s not just kids who are excited – pets love to join in on the fun too! If you’re considering adding an outdoor pool to your backyard, you’re likely weighing the pros and cons of different types of pools.
Today, we’re focusing on above-ground pools with decks because they offer a cost-effective, low-maintenance option that can be a focal point for your landscape.
If you’re feeling ambitious and want to take on the project yourself, we have a helpful tutorial that breaks down the essential steps. Check out our DIY guide: DIY Above Ground Swimming Pool With Deck.
Before you get started, let’s take a look at some of the best above-ground pool options available.
Here are a few top picks:
INTEX 26355EH 18ft x 9ft x 52in Ultra XTR
INTEX 26711EH 12ft x 30in Prism Frame Pool
INTEX 26167EH 15ft x 48in Easy Set Pool
Bestway 56687E Steel Pro Max 15ft x 42in
Now that you’ve chosen your pool, it’s time to think about decking. With the right design and materials, your above-ground pool with deck will be the envy of the neighborhood!
Illuminate Your Above Ground Pool and Deck with LED Lights
When you think of enjoying life by the pool, day time might be what comes to mind first. However, installing lights under the pool rim can help extend your fun into the night. These lights serve as a subtle accent that highlights the pool itself, rather than drawing attention to the light source. This is why LED lights are strategically placed beneath the pool liners, looking down onto the decking.
As the lights illuminate the water from within, they give it a captivating glow that’s equally appealing on the surrounding decking. With this added feature, stepping in and out of the pool becomes an easy and enjoyable experience.
Make Your Dream Pool Deck a Reality with Pallet Slats
Want to create an affordable deck for your stock tank pool without breaking the bank? Look no further! By building one yourself, you’ll not only save money on construction costs but also ensure the perfect size and design for your yard. And the best part? You can do it all for under $100. One creative solution is to repurpose pallet slats to create a unique above-ground deck. Start by raising the deck on sturdy wooden posts, then add a staircase to provide easy access.
This budget-friendly approach not only saves you money but also allows you to customize the size and design of your deck to fit perfectly in your yard.
Upgrade Your Above-Ground Pool with A Tiered Deck
When designing a compact and functional pool area, consider building a terraced wood deck around an aboveground pool. The tiered design allows for wide and long stairs that not only provide access to the pool but also serve multiple purposes. For instance, you can use the stairs as a spot for sunbathing or drying towels. To further blend the pool with its surroundings, incorporate flower pots in the corners of the terracing.
This clever space-saving idea makes an aboveground pool an attractive option for those looking to create a unique and practical outdoor space.
Get the Most of Above-Ground Pool with Deck and Trampoline
For those with ample outdoor space, an above-ground pool with a deck offers numerous benefits. One major advantage is the raised deck’s generous dimensions, allowing for sunbathing, seating areas, or even a pergola. This design eliminates the installation challenges often associated with in-ground pools, as the elevated structure requires no excavation. From a financial perspective, this type of setup is also more budget-friendly.
Utilizing lumber and coating it with a water-resistant treatment keeps costs manageable. The raised deck level adds an extra layer of entertainment value, enabling fun activities like jumping into the pool from above or using the ladder for a comfortable water-entry experience. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy swimming while kids have a blast jumping on a safely-covered trampoline beneath adult supervision – all within a safe and inviting outdoor space.
Elevate Your Above-Ground Pool with Acrylic Fence
When it comes to approved materials for pool fence guards, there are two primary options to consider. One of the most popular and cost-effective choices is acrylic, also known as PERSPEX Sheet. Not only is it remarkably stronger than glass, but it’s also UV-resistant and offers the added benefit of being flexible, allowing you to shape it to your desired design.
This versatility makes it an ideal solution for pool owners looking to create a seamless transition between their backyard and pool deck. By incorporating an acrylic fence, homeowners can add an air of elegance and sophistication to their outdoor space, while also boosting their home’s curb appeal.
Get a Contemporary Vibe with an Automatic Cover
The benefits of above-ground pools don’t stop at aesthetics or affordability – their design also makes maintenance a breeze. Since all pool accessories are concealed within the deck structure, you can easily access and clean your pool without any hassle. To take your ease to the next level, consider adding a cover that keeps insects and dirt at bay when you’re not using it.
Automated covers are particularly convenient, eliminating the need for manual stretching or contortion to secure your pool’s lid.
Transform Your Backyard with Luxurious Composite Pool Deck
If you’re seeking an affordable yet authentic wood decking experience for your above-ground pool, look no further than composite decking. Before setting up your pool structure, ensure the ground is level by adding dirt as needed. Next, place the pool in position and install the composite deck halfway around its perimeter. For easy access to the pool and effortless cleaning, consider adding walk-in steps on one or both sides.
This project offers not only a reasonable upfront investment but also an impressively low maintenance requirement.
Enhance Your Backyard Pool Area with a Timeless Design
Inspired by the classic elegance of a traditional home, this outdoor deck design features a sturdy structure composed of solid wood slats and boards, supported by crisp white posts and ornate lattice panels. The cohesive aesthetic creates a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, making it an ideal choice for homeowners looking to extend their living space.
A added bonus is the ability to repurpose materials from the adjacent house makeover, keeping costs in check while maintaining visual harmony. The deck’s organic design also lends itself well to incorporating a water feature, such as a small pond or fountain, which can further enhance the serene ambiance and create a peaceful retreat.
Add a Rugged Appeal with a Stone Above-Ground Pool
Natural-looking pools have gained immense popularity lately, but achieving this look often comes with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, there’s a more affordable way to infuse your pool area with a natural ambiance – stone lining in neutral tones. This design element allows you to select the desired texture and enhance the rustic aesthetic. Flagstones, in particular, offer a unique look for both the pool and deck, backed by a lifetime warranty.
For above-ground pools, flagstones typically cover the pool’s sides and deck, while the landing area of the deck is often composed of flat stones.
Create a Glow of Beauty With Above-Ground Pool Lighting
Simplifying the lighting concept for an above-ground pool, one can repurpose walkway illumination fixtures to create a unique edging effect around the pool. By placing these lights in a garden bed covered with stones, not only does the excess water drain easily through the stone coverage, but it also seamlessly integrates the surrounding backyard landscape into the pool’s design.
Add Privacy to Above-Ground Pool with Fenced Deck
To enhance privacy and security around your above-ground pool, consider integrating a sturdy fence into your deck design. This can be achieved by extending the same material used for the deck, resulting in a cohesive look. For instance, if your deck is constructed from wood, you could use wooden slats in a blond finish to create a seamless transition. The example shown features a spacious backyard with a symmetrical deck layout, placing the pool at its center.
This design not only provides a sense of seclusion but also adds visual appeal to the outdoor space.
Transform Your Pool Nook with a Floral Background
To seamlessly integrate your pool nook into the existing backyard landscape, incorporate an element that echoes throughout the garden. A thoughtful approach would be to create a garden bed surrounding the pool deck, where you can plant ornamental flowers that harmonize with the exotic ambiance of having a water feature on your property.
Alternatively, opt for seasonal blooms that burst forth with vibrant colors and delightful fragrances, subtly complementing the tranquil atmosphere of your outdoor oasis.
Enjoy Exotic Elegance with an Ipa Wood Pool Deck
Transforming a picturesque landscape with an over-the-ground pool design requires a high level of skill and attention to detail. One challenge lies in creating an artificial feature that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings, especially if you’re not keen on the traditional look of pond pools. A unique approach can be achieved by incorporating a deck made from durable IPA wood, which offers numerous benefits such as cost-effectiveness, ease of maintenance, and longevity.
To further integrate the structure into the landscape, consider creating a small garden adjacent to the deck, featuring plants that mirror those found in the surrounding environment.
Get a Rustic Look for Your Backyard Pool with Platform Deck
Transform your pool area into an exotic oasis by building a platform deck that embodies the comfort of hotel pools. As you dive into the pool and then lounge on the deck, you’ll be enveloped in a serene atmosphere. While recreating the luxurious designs found at resorts can be costly, you can achieve a similar look with an affordable wooden platform.
By staining the wood to match identical slats, you’ll create a stylish and durable surface that’s protected from the elements and the wet conditions caused by water splashes. The stain also adds a touch of sophistication, making your pool area a true retreat.
Make the Most of Your Outdoor Space with a Resin Pool Deck
Resin pool decks offer a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional wooden decks. This option is particularly ideal for individuals with limited backyard space or budget constraints. The versatility of resin pool decks lies in their modular design, allowing homeowners to purchase sections that can be customized to fit their specific needs. Options include varying sizes of landing, ladder length, and fencing, providing a high degree of flexibility during the installation process.
Keep Your Family Safe with Safety Pool Covers
When it comes to pools with decks, using a safety pool cover during winter or extended periods of non-use is an excellent idea. This applies specifically to above-ground pools with decking areas that aren’t in constant use. Moreover, the deck design presented here also features an upper-level gate connected directly to the house – a practical feature for any homeowner.
Additionally, the lattice panels on the lower level lend a charming rustic flair to this entertainment area, effectively concealing the pool’s structural elements and accessories from view.
Bring Comfort to Your Above-Ground Pool with Terrace Deck
Designed as a multi-level sanctuary, this deck cleverly distinguishes between the adjacent pool area and relaxation space. The primary motivation for its construction was to overcome the challenges posed by the rough terrain, which had previously proven difficult to maintain.
Add Splendour to Backyard Pool with Terraced Deck
Transforming your above-ground pool with a deck is a game-changer. By partially or fully encasing it in a wooden platform, you’re not only enhancing its aesthetic appeal but also turning it into a stunning focal point for your backyard. The terraced design adds a unique touch, elevating the overall curb appeal of this outdoor space. The juxtaposition of the stained wood against the surrounding stampcrete and lush grass creates a visually striking contrast that lets the pool take center stage.
Create a Visual Continuation with a Wooden Bridge
Blending seamlessly with the porch of the house, this elegant bridge fosters a visual connection between the two outdoor zones. The identical material used for the bridge and deck mirrors the porch planking, creating a harmonious visual flow. This thoughtful design approach prioritizes both functionality and comfort, allowing individuals to transition effortlessly from one zone to another without compromising their cleanliness.
Furthermore, the bridge provides a convenient and swift route from the outdoors into the house, streamlining the journey.
Elevate the Vibe of Your Above-Ground Pool with Slides
Looking for ways to revitalize your above-ground pool? One simple yet effective solution is to install a pool slide. This game-changing addition can instantly elevate the excitement factor in the zone. When it comes to choosing the right slide type, consider two key factors: the thrill level you’re aiming for and the age range of your pool users.
From gentle, slow-moving options perfect for younger swimmers to more extreme slides that’ll get your heart racing, there’s a design out there to suit every taste and preference.
Get a Unique Look with a Hexagonal Pool Deck Design
Surrounding the round pool is a stunning hexagonal deck that transforms into a vibrant summer haven for the family. The clever design allows for seamless access from both the porch and the garden through two entrance points, blurring the lines between each area to create a sense of continuity. The entire structure appears as a single entity, making it challenging to distinguish where one section ends and another begins.
Make a Statement with a Big Enclosed Above-Ground Pool
This expansive raised deck, situated at the rear of an oblong above-ground pool, offers ample space without overwhelming the senses. The surrounding landscape beautifully complements the relaxing atmosphere, featuring a harmonious blend of natural elements such as shrubs, lush greenery in a carefully curated rock garden, and ornamental grasses.
Furthermore, not fully enclosing the deck when adding one to an above-ground pool can be a practical solution for effortless maintenance, particularly for larger pools.
Unlock Beauty of Nature with an Above-Ground Garden Pool
Surrounded by lush greenery, this above-ground pool features a garden bed adorned with ornamental plants. To maximize space, the deck is cleverly replaced by two step-like platforms situated side by side. For those looking for inspiration, the design of these compact steps can be easily replicated using pallets, offering a creative and budget-friendly solution.
Create a Functional Above-Ground Pool with Terraced Deck
Incorporating a terraced deck into your outdoor space can be a game-changer for small yards. This clever design not only provides a functional staircase but also doubles as seating areas and flower stands. The compact footprint is ideal for smaller properties, allowing you to maximize the use of your available space without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics.
For homeowners with limited yard space who are considering adding a pool to their property, this versatile design can serve as a compelling inspiration.
Upgrade Your Pool with a Composite Wood Deck
Perched above ground, this expansive oval pool boasts a composite wood deck that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings. Situated at the base of the pool wall, the deck rises to half the height, creating a visually appealing continuous design. This thoughtful elevation not only reduces the distance between the pool rim and the landing, but also ensures safe and comfortable usage.
Furthermore, the deck facilitates effortless access for swimming or cleaning purposes, while also aiding in maintaining the pool’s cleanliness.
Get a Polished Look with an Above-Ground Pool
The fusion of a ground-level pool and adjacent decking creates a visually stunning outdoor space that exudes style and sophistication. The seamless integration of the deck’s alignment with the pool’s top rim point produces a mesmerizing illusion of an endless water feature, captivating the senses.
The harmonious marriage of stone-lined pool surfaces with rustic decking planks further elevates this alfresco entertainment area to new heights of aesthetic appeal, making it an envy-worthy oasis for relaxation and recreation.
Add Charm to Above-Ground Pool with a Beautiful Landscape
Despite being confined to a small fraction of the pool deck, the homeowners have found creative ways to enhance the surrounding landscape. The uncovered portion of the pool is surrounded by a garden bed, which adds visual appeal and a sense of continuity with the rest of the outdoor space. A variety of plants thrive in this area, some placed in pots to allow for easier maintenance and others directly planted into the soil.
To maintain good drainage and prevent weed growth, the soil is topped with stones.
Unwind in Luxury with a Stylish Above-Ground Pool
The concept of pools in backyards has become increasingly popular, evolving from mere entertainment spaces to design elements that significantly boost curb appeal. The primary goal is to create a unique outdoor experience that reflects personal taste. Above-ground pools, in particular, have gained popularity for their ability to evoke the serenity and depth of ocean views, even when situated inland.
Improve Your Pool Design with Multi-Level Deck Stairs
The centerpiece of this outdoor space is a unique round pool elevated above ground level, partially encircled by a multi-tiered deck. This clever design not only provides effortless access to the sunbathing area where lounge chairs are strategically placed, but also creates a sense of anticipation as the pool’s presence is obscured until you’re up close.
Furthermore, its proximity to the lush flower garden allows for a seamless integration of natural elements, with flower pots tastefully situated on the stairs and an edging garden bed adding to the overall aesthetic.
Indulge in the Lavish Look of Nonagon-Shaped Pool
To create a unique outdoor space, the designer had to think outside the box. A small wooden deck was constructed using slats around an above-ground pool, showcasing creative problem-solving. The result is a charming and rustic retreat that extends beyond the pool itself. The round pool’s liner takes on a geometric shape, forming a nonagon that provides a cozy spot for sitting or resting one’s arm while soaking up the sun.
This innovative design is sure to inspire DIY enthusiasts looking to create their own backyard oasis.
Get Ready for Summer with a Wooden Deck and Lounge
The continuation of the porch flows seamlessly into this stunning pool deck, which wraps around half of an oval-shaped pool. A ladder provides easy access to the water’s edge, creating a seamless transition between poolside relaxation and aquatic activities. The stained wooden deck adds a unique touch, blending harmoniously with its surroundings. Constructed directly on the ground, it keeps the pool area tidy and free from dirt accumulation.
Spanning a considerable size, this expansive deck offers endless possibilities for creative space utilization. Envision lounging chairs nestled in one corner, a sitting table in another, and an assortment of flower pots adding pops of color and vibrancy throughout.
Add Character to Backyard with Oval Above-Ground Pool
The oval above-ground pool is cleverly surrounded by a deck that provides a subtle elevation, effectively maintaining the pool area’s cleanliness. This thoughtful design also serves to define the pool space as a unique zone within the backyard, setting it apart from the rest of the landscape. One particularly innovative aspect is the decision to incorporate existing trees into the deck’s design, rather than removing them altogether.
By building the deck around the tree trunks, creating holes for their passage, the designers have cleverly preserved the natural beauty of the surrounding environment while still achieving their goal of defining the pool area.
Uplift Your Backyard with a Majestic Oval Pool
In this expansive backyard, the possibilities for installation are endless. A large pool can be built seamlessly into the ground, its exterior boasting an intriguing design adorned with antique motifs. The columns, cleverly integrated into the pool’s structure, appear as natural extensions due to their matching color and protruding shape.
Meanwhile, the garden bed surrounding the pool is thoughtfully designed, featuring a layer of light grey gravel that not only facilitates good drainage but also highlights the lush evergreen bushes.
Transform Your Pool Experience with an Elevated Deck
Partially above-ground pools offer a unique blend of functionality and aesthetics. One such design feature is the recessed area where the structure sits, carefully crafted to accommodate pump accessories and provide ample space for installation. This thoughtful consideration ensures seamless operation and easy maintenance. The elevated wooden slats that cover this section serve as a stylish staircase, providing safe and convenient access to the pool.
While the overall frame and deck may not be massive, they successfully convey an air of elegance and sophistication, elevating the entire pool experience.
Create a Relaxation Spot with an Elevated Patio Design
The pool deck design features a covered patio area that provides a cozy retreat from the sun’s direct rays. The elevated deck wraps around the oval pool, seamlessly blending with its perimeter almost flush with the waterline. A clever use of space is achieved at the corners, where wider landings accommodate a coffee table and chairs set.
This inviting spot allows individuals to unwind and enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the mesmerizing glow created by the sun’s rays refracting through the pool’s surface.
Bring Farmhouse Charm with Wood and Stone Pool Design
A standout example of an unassuming above-ground pool that’s elevated by its naturalistic makeover is the one encased in stone and wood. This design seamlessly integrates the pool area with its surroundings, harmonizing the exterior aesthetic of the house. Another takeaway from this design is the clever placement of the deck, which spans two-thirds of the pool’s perimeter, providing ample space for a shade structure, seating arrangement, and two lounges.
Create a Signature Style with an Elegant Pool Deck Design
The swimming pool’s unique design is exemplified by its surroundings, where the deck meets the ground level, allowing for a seamless view of the pool walls’ lining. The deck itself, along with the pool lining, features stained wood planks that exude an elegant rustic charm. This aesthetic seamlessly blends with the natural environment outside, creating a harmonious visual connection.
Embrace Minimalism with a Chic Above-Ground Spa
Maximize your small outdoor space by exploiting its vertical potential. Create an alluring pool area on the lower level, flanked by a deck that extends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. For a rectangular pool, consider widening the deck at one end to create a sun-kissed spot perfect for relaxation. The compact design features a long bench instead of traditional lounges, evoking a spa-like ambiance that’s further enhanced by the harmonious blend of stone, concrete, and wood elements.
Craft Unique Outdoor Pool Setting with Lattice Fence Panels
This innovative deck design features three distinct levels, with the top tier seamlessly blending into the pool’s edge, creating an optical illusion of endlessness. A series of steps connects the different levels, allowing for clever usage of the space without compromising the overall aesthetic.
The pale wood covering the platform and surrounding walls takes on a weathered appearance, imbuing the area with a rustic charm reminiscent of a French cottage oasis.
Meanwhile, the lattice-like panels attached to the stone wall behind the pool add to the vintage ambiance, ultimately transforming this outdoor nook into a cozy retreat.
Maximize Space with a Modern Above-Ground Pool
This modern and minimalist above-ground pool is nestled in a long, narrow backyard of a suite design house. The clean lines, stone accents, glass surfaces, and subtle lighting blend seamlessly with the Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic of the surrounding area.
The pool’s private atmosphere is ensured by a sturdy, tall fence that encloses the space. Two decks run along either side of the pool, one constructed from concrete and the other featuring wooden planking.
Both decks sit flush against the ground, perfectly aligned with the property’s architectural features.
Create a Unique Entryway to Your Above Ground Pool
This pool deck serves as more than just a transition between the above-ground pool and the surrounding landscape. Its unique design transforms it into a sheltered connection to the second-floor entrance, cleverly positioned above the front door. Crafted entirely from wood, this modest structure occupies only a small section of the pool’s perimeter.
The underlying motivations for this approach are multifaceted, including the constraints of limited yard space, cost-effectiveness, and the deck’s ability to fulfill multiple purposes.
Experience Unrivaled Style with a Stock Tank Pool
Stock tanks are a game-changer for above-ground pools, offering a reliable and cost-effective solution that can last up to 25 years with proper maintenance. This eco-friendly option is particularly appealing to homeowners with limited space or those seeking a unique and creative way to enjoy the outdoors. As an added bonus, stock tanks can be customized to fit individual styles, making them a popular choice among bohemian-inspired pool enthusiasts.
With a little imagination and some inspiration from our 40 best stock tank pool ideas, you too can create your own summer oasis right in the comfort of your own backyard.
Design Your Dream Outdoor Space with a Raised Deck
One way to create the illusion of an inground pool is to design the surrounding deck to appear flush with the surface. Alternatively, you could build the deck higher up so that it’s at or above the rim of the pool, achieving a unique visual effect. Regardless of the approach, the deck serves as a tranquil retreat, where plush lounges and lush greenery in ceramic pots can be placed to foster a sense of relaxation.
The use of wood fencing not only adds a touch of natural beauty but also ensures privacy and safety for those enjoying the elevated space.
