In 2001, we took the plunge an installed a new swimming pool.  Since one major project always leads to another, in 2002, we built a new deck so we could fully enjoy the pool. 

We used traditional pressure treated structural lumber, but elected to use a composite decking material.  Formed from wood fiber mixed with recycled plastic, it handles like lumber, but is resistant to water, chemicals and sun damage.  It will never warp, chip, rot or splinter.  In addition, it never needs to be stained, painted or treated.  While it is more expensive up front, we will recover the costs by not having any maintenance costs.

The plan was to have everything complete by Memorial Day.  As is usual, plans are made to be changed.

5/19 - old decking removal

In order to keep everything looking consistent, we opted to remove the decking from our existing deck and replace it with new decking.  

You can see the pool on the left.  We had to drain & disconnect the hot tub.

5/21 - new decking

Over the next few days, the builder put down the new decking.  This lead up to Memorial Day - the original planed completion date for the entire project.

5/28 - post holes

Yes, this is the day after Memorial Day.  The builder finally dug the post holes.

5/30 - posts

After the holes are dug, and footings poured, the cement has to cure for a couple days.  Then the posts are set on top of the footings and the holes are filled back in with dirt.

5/31 - framing

Once the posts are set, the framing begins.

6/1 - stones

In order to help keep the underside of the deck looking good, we ordered 4 yards of medium sized stone to spread under the deck.

6/5 - framing

The framing continued

6/6 - decking

Woo hoo! Finally some decking!  The decking and framing work continued for the next few days.

6/10 - ladder

The decking and framing continues.  The decking now met up with the edge of the pool so we could install our nifty new stairs.

6/14 - railing

The builder started building the railing today. The railings is built of all plastic material.  Each section is assembled and then mounted to the 4x4 plastic posts that are mounted through the deck.  You can see the temporary stairs.

6/18 - railing and fascia

The railing work continued.  In addition, they started attaching fascia boards and finished the stairs.

The railing and fascia work continued for several days.

7/2 - gate

The gate was installed today.  Unfortunately, the posts need to be replaced so they match the 48" height of the gate.  The local building code requires that access to pools be blocked by a minimum 48" barrier.  In addition, for in-ground pools, or above-ground pools with a deck, there must be a self-closing and self-latching gate that is at least 48" tall with the latch on the opposite side at least 3" down from the top.  The left door of the the gate will be fixed with a pin through the deck.  The right door has a self closing hinge and will latch to the left door.

7/6 - basically done

Yes, the plan was for Memorial Day, and here we are after the Fourth of July.  Still, we are very happy with the deck.  Our builder did a great job and everything looks great.

Please read my disclaimer.

This page last updated on Monday, July 26, 2004 09:43:41 PM