Building a Deck Around Pool

At WA Timber Decking Professionals, we often get asked “what are my options for building a deck around my pool?” After all, a well-constructed pool deck is a big investment for your property and should not only look attractive, but also stand the test of time.

First of all, it’s important to select a Class 1 hardwood timber. Boasting the highest level of natural durability, Class 1 timbers are expected to last more than 40 years when used above-ground, and have an average life expectancy of 25 years when used in-ground. They are long-lasting, extremely durable and most suitable for outdoor areas as they have little to no exposed grain.

On the other hand, Class 2 hardwood timbers (such as Jarrah) have too much exposed grain and may become problematic over time when used for pool decking. Constant exposure to pool water can potentially infiltrate the board through this grain, causing deterioration and reducing the durability of your deck.

The most suitable Class 1 hardwood timbers for swimming pool decks are:

IRONBARK

At WATDP, we often recommend the use of Ironwood Ironbark , for building a deck around a pool.

Sourced from Australia’s eastern states, Ironbark can create a beautiful timber deck and will naturally grey-off with no sealer product needed. It is a wonderful low-maintenance option for spa and pool decking.

MERBAU

Some non-Australian timbers (such as Merbau) contain natural tannins which may leach if not contained through applying a water-based sealer. We recommend washing Merbau before installing to remove surface tannins and locking in the tannins within the wood by applying two coats of a quality sealer. If run-off of water into the pool is possible, we also recommend sealing the underside of the board prior to installation.

Despite this, Merbau is our most popular and competitively priced natural timber for pool decking. A merbau deck remains stable in our hot and dry WA climate and will look fantastic for years to come.

Its unique reddish-brown colour is lighter than Jarrah and with less grain characteristics.

TALLOWWOOD

Unlike several other Class 1 Australian hardwood timbers, Tallowwood also has a Class 1 rating for in-ground applications. This super strong and durable option also has a high tannin content, so it’s important to prepare the surface correctly and use the correct sealants.

Tallowwood offers an exclusively stunning look with colours ranging from elegant blonde-brown tones right through to light olive greens.

SPOTTED GUM

With a density rating of 980kg/m³, Spotted Gum has the highest rating of all Australian hardwood timbers, making it a great choice for pool decks.

It also contains lower levels of tannins when compared to other eucalypts. This reduces the likelihood of nearby brickwork or paintwork to stain when water runs over the unpainted surface.

Spotted Gum is available in a unique range of shades from pale straw colours right through to stunning natural dark browns.

BLACKBUTT

Blackbutt also boasts one of the highest density ratings (900kg/m), making it another ideal choice for pool and spa decking in Western Australia.

Blackbutt has a straight grain, even colour and even texture – giving it a unique and eye-catching finish especially when polished, stained or painted.

The colour varies from golden yellow to pale brown. In rare cases, a pinkish tone can be seen throughout.

Composites can also make for an attractive pool deck. Care needs to be taken to select a composite with a low plastic content if the deck is exposed to the full sun. The last thing you want is a deck to be too hot to walk on next to a pool!

A low plastic content will also reduce the amount of expansion/contraction of the boards throughout the day. We have a selection of composites that we highly recommend for pool decks.

A timber patio or pergola is a great addition to building a deck around a pool if you’re looking for some much needed shade. In addition to selecting the correct timber, the size, position and angle of the structure should also be carefully considered in order to create the ideal amount of shade during the times of day you’re most likely to use the pool.

WA Timber Decking Professionals have constructed a countless number of stunning yet durable pool decks throughout Western Australia. Serving both the residential and commercial markets, our skilled team has the experience and knowledge to ensure that your new pool deck will be the perfect fit for your requirements.

Upon meeting with you and taking the time to understand your objectives, Craig will deliver a detailed quotation which will carefully take into consideration the moisture levels, direction of sunlight, air flow and climate, to ensure that your new timber patio is not only attractive, but strong and durable and will last many years.

Contact us today to schedule your obligation-free onsite consultation and quotation.