Why a Wood Deck Around Your Inground Pool Might Be Your Best Backyard Upgrade

Picture this: You step out your back door onto warm wooden planks that frame your glistening pool, the natural grain patterns catching sunlight as you head for a refreshing dip. A wood deck around inground pool isn’t just functional – it’s that perfect marriage of practicality and backyard charm that makes neighbors peek over the fence. But before you start picking out lounge chairs, let’s walk through what really matters when planning this kind of project.

The Great Material Debate: Real Wood vs. Composite

Here’s where most homeowners get stuck. Traditionalists swear by the authentic look of natural wood like redwood or cedar, while modern folks lean toward composite decking. Let’s break it down:

Real Wood Pros: That instant “vacation vibe” you can’t fake, naturally cooler underfoot than composite in direct sun, and generally cheaper upfront (think $15-$25 per sq.ft installed). The catch? You’ll be resealing it every 1-2 years and replacing boards occasionally.

Composite Decking: Made from wood fibers and plastic, these boards laugh at splinters and pool chemicals. Prices run higher ($20-$35 per sq.ft), but many come with 25-year warranties. The trade-off? Some can get uncomfortably hot – important if you’re barefoot around the pool!

Making It Last: The Moisture Battle

Pool decks live in a wet world. Even if you go with composite, installation details make or break longevity. Here’s what our crew always insists on:

• Slope it right: 1/4″ drop per foot away from the pool prevents water pooling
• Breathing room: Leave 1/8″ gaps between boards for expansion
• Hidden fasteners: Prevents corrosion from chlorine splash

Pro tip: Consider a hidden drainage system beneath the deck – it’s extra work but saves headaches later!

Safety First (Without Sacrificing Style)

Wet feet + smooth surfaces = disaster waiting to happen. Modern wood decks solve this with:

• Textured finishes that feel smooth but grip like a gecko’s foot
• Rounded edges that prevent stubbed toes
• Built-in lighting strips along stair edges

Fun fact: Some composites now incorporate subtle rubber particles for extra slip resistance – perfect for rowdy pool parties!

Blending With Your Backyard Oasis

A wood deck around inground pool shouldn’t look like it was dropped from space. Here’s how to make it flow:

Color matching: Pick wood tones that complement your home’s exterior. Warm reds for Mediterranean styles, cool greys for modern builds.

Plant integration: Leave strategic gaps for ornamental grasses or creeping thyme that release scent when stepped on.

Multi-level magic: Create a sunning platform right at water level, then step up to a dining area. It adds visual interest and defines spaces.

Cost vs. Value: What You’re Really Investing In

Let’s talk numbers. A quality wood deck around inground pool typically costs 20-30% less than stamped concrete, and way less than natural stone. But here’s the kicker – Realtors report pools with wood decks sell faster than those with plain concrete. Why? They create that “resort feel” buyers can’t resist.

Maintenance costs even out over time. While concrete needs power washing and stone requires resealing, wood just needs basic care. And if a board does warp? You’re replacing a $50 section, not redoing the whole patio.

Real World Example: The Johnson Family Makeover

Our clients in Arizona wanted to update their 1990s concrete pool deck. We suggested ipe wood (a tropical hardwood) with these specs:

• 16′ x 24′ curved design
• Integrated bench seating
• Low-voltage LED lighting
• PermaTrack hidden fasteners

Total cost: Around $18,000. Two years later, their home appraisal jumped $35k – and they gained the best hangout spot on the block!

When to Think Twice

Wood decks aren’t for every situation. In super humid climates or areas with termites, composites might be safer. And if you hate any kind of maintenance? Maybe stained concrete is better. But for most homeowners, that warm, natural look is worth the occasional upkeep.

Final thought: Your pool deck is where memories happen – first cannonballs, summer BBQs, stargazing nights. Choose materials that feel good underfoot and make you smile every time you step outside. Isn’t that what backyard dreams are made of?