Save Your Summer Budget With These Creative Inexpensive Pool Deck Ideas
Dreaming of enhancing your backyard poolscape but worried about the potential costs involved? We totally get it - between decking materials, construction expenses and ornamental features, renovating your pool deck can require a hefty investment.
Luckily, you don't have to break the bank to give your outdoor swimming space a beautiful facelift. There are numerous creative ways to build or restore a gorgeous pool deck without spending a fortune. Read on for plenty of thrifty yet stylish ideas for affordable pool deck projects.
Materials for Budget-Friendly Pool Decks
Natural Stone
Certain types of natural stone can provide an elegant finished look for pool surrounds while keeping costs contained compared to premium materials like slate or granite.
Travertine is a great affordable option - it comes in a range of earthy colors from ivory to rustic brown. Travertine pavers interlock neatly for smooth durability. For a Mediterranean vibe, try patterns with flagstone in compatible colors.
Concrete
While basic gray concrete is inexpensive, stamped or stained concrete boosts visual appeal. Stamped concrete is textured and patterned to mimic flagstone, brick and other materials for a fraction of the cost. Stained concrete introduces color for customizable pool decks.
An innovative finish like Pebbletec coats concrete with pebbles and stones in eye-catching hues from azure to cocoa for added style.
Wood Decking
Hardwoods like cedar and redwood make timeless, attractive choices for pool decks. These woods endure weather, humidity and foot traffic while adding warmth and character.
For a lower-maintenance option, wood-polymer composite blends resilience and affordability. Composite decking resists splintering, rotting and warping while retaining wood's beauty.
Pavers
Concrete pavers offer versatility and durability for retaining a modest budget. Concrete pavers come in varied sizes, shapes and colors to create customized patterns. Their interlocking design resists cracking and shifting.
Brick pavers also deliver an ageless, elegant look around pools. Brick's classic, welcoming aesthetic suits all design schemes. For patios and decks, natural stone pavers like travertine bring chic style.
Clever Techniques for Affordable Pool Decks
Downsize the Deck Footprint
One effective way to minimize pool deck installation costs is simply to build a smaller deck. Focus on essential functional spaces instead of elaborate sprawling surrounds. A side deck with an entryway and steps saves substantially on square footage.
If your yard allows, locating the pool near the home reduces the needed deck size. An intimate yet inviting area fosters quality time with family and friends.
Use Recycled Composite Materials
Eco-friendly building materials salvage plastic, wood fibers and reclaimed lumber to generate durable, affordable decking. Many companies now manufacture deck boards and tiles fusing recycled plastic or wood pulp with recycled polyethylene.
These innovative composites prevent waste while delivering top performance and longevity. Their realistic wood-grain patterns mimic the beauty of natural wood at a lower cost.
Repurpose Found Items
Breathing new life into discarded items presents a rewarding DIY opportunity while keeping your wallet happy. Old wooden pallets can supply material for deck steps, benches, planters and other accents.
A rustic ladder leaned artfully against the house makes an eye-catching conversation piece - then serves a practical purpose for lounging on sunny days.
Employ DIY Construction
By handling installation yourself, you can construct the deck you want for less. With proper planning and online tutorials guiding each phase, DIY projects prove fulfilling. You have creative control while avoiding inflated labor fees.
Focus on decks with straightforward designs for the best chances of DIY success. Skillfully selected materials also facilitate the process for novices.
Thrifty Design Touches
Plants & Greenery
Foliage and florals infuse poolscapes with natural tranquility and color. Potted plants or flowers make inexpensive additions - try palms, bougainvillea, hibiscus, geraniums and more based on your climate.
Consider neat flower beds bordering the pool or deck. Vertical gardens on walls or fences maximize blooms in a compact footprint.
Lighting
Ambient lighting transforms pool decks into relaxing nighttime retreats. Outdoor string lights overhead or solar path lights cost little to install. Position LED strips beneath stairs for safe visibility after dark.
Groupings of Tiki torches flickering poolside create laidback lounging spots for warmer evenings. Their glow reflects beautifully on the water's surface.
Furnishings
Select furnishings like chairs, loungers, side tables and ottomans with cost-savings and durability in mind. Plastic or aluminum options withstand weather and resist fading.
Scour thrift stores, flea markets and online ads for quality secondhand patio furniture. Repurposed items like vintage trunks or old cable spools make charming tables.
Accessories
Secondary decorative components maximize style at minimal expense. Attach an affordable roll-down shade screen to a patio cover for cooling relief from the midday sun.
DIY water features like small tabletop fountains utilize recycled materials - try repurposed pots or galvanized tubs. Handcrafted privacy screens using reclaimed wood slats offer seclusion elegantly.
Above-Ground Pool Deck Ideas
Side Decks
Compact decks built only along one length of the pool are ideal for above-ground designs. Leave the other three sides clear. Side decks provide essential access without breaking your budget.
Wood planks or concrete pavers make excellent inexpensive options. Include basic stairs and some lighting fixtures to finish the look.
Platform Decks
A square wooden platform around the pool perimeter delivers a sleek, minimalist look. Opt for budget-friendly treated lumber or wood-polymer composite boards perfect for simple square decking.
Add colorful outdoor area rugs for visual interest. Coordinating patio umbrellas and furniture complete the setup.
Pallets for Stairs
For easy access to above-ground pools, repurposed shipping pallets build instant affordable steps. Arrange pallets end-to-end into a makeshift staircase against the pool wall.
Pallets are free or cheap to acquire. Customize this basic concept with added railing, plank steps or decorative accents.
FAQs About Inexpensive Pool Decks
What are the most affordable decking materials?
Travertine, concrete, pressure-treated woods and composite boards offer beauty on a budget. Brick pavers, pea gravel, and flagstone also keep costs low.
How can I reduce the cost of installing a pool deck?
Strategies like choosing smaller footprints, opting for simple geometric shapes, using DIY construction, and selecting lower-cost building materials substantially decrease deck installation expenses.
What are low-cost options for upgrading my existing pool deck?
Painting or staining concrete, adding accent lighting, installing privacy screens, bringing in new patio furniture, planting flowers and creating mini-water features provide affordable facelifts.
How much do basic above-ground pool decks cost?
Very simple wood side decks typically run $1500 and up. More extensive above-ground pool decks with added features usually cost $4000 to $8000.
Building your dream pool deck doesn't require breaking the bank. Following clever design strategies makes renovating your poolscape possible even on a limited budget. Prioritizing natural materials, smaller footprints, repurposed items and strategic accents allows fashioning a personalized gathering space filled with style and savings.
This summer, enjoy quality time poolside with family and friends - without spending a fortune thanks to these thrifty pool deck solutions. Let your imagination run wild designing an outdoor retreat expressing your personal flair. With the right approach, you can craft a welcoming waterfront oasis on a budget that provides seasons of enjoyment for years to come.