DIY Guide: How To Build A Pool Deck With Pallets

Are you dreaming of a beautiful pool deck but worried about the high costs? Many people share this concern, searching for budget-friendly options that don’t sacrifice quality or style.

Building a pool deck out of pallets is an innovative and economical solution that’s often overlooked.

One particularly inspiring approach involves using recycled wood such as pallets and fence pickets to craft a sturdy and attractive platform around your pool. This DIY project not only saves money but also adds a rustic charm to your outdoor space.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step—from choosing the right pallets to adding those perfect finishing touches. Ready to transform your backyard without breaking the bank? Keep reading!

Key Takeaways

• Choose sturdy, high-quality pallets made from hardwood or treated softwood to ensure the durability and safety of your pool deck.
• Clear and level the ground before starting to build your deck; removing grass, weeds, and loose soil helps create a solid foundation.
• Secure the pallets with screws or nails for a stable base and cover any gaps between them with extra wood pieces to even out the surface.

Choosing the right pallets

Using wooden pallets as the base for a DIY pool is a cost-effective construction approach, potentially costing as little as $80. Selecting high-quality, durable wood pallet types ensures the structural integrity needed to support your pool.

Look for sturdy hardwood or treated softwood pallets that show no signs of damage or wear.

Plywood sheets are essential to prevent leakage and should be attached securely inside each pallet. Each piece of wood must fit snugly together to maintain durability. The choice in pallet construction impacts the stability and overall lifespan of your pool deck project.

The key to a lasting and safe pool deck lies in choosing solid, unblemished wooden pallets.

Different types of wood can serve various needs based on climate conditions and maintenance effort. Prioritize quality over quantity in your selections for reliable performance in building your DIY pool deck.

Preparing the area

Preparing the area is crucial for building a sturdy and safe pool deck. Follow these steps to ensure a solid foundation.

1. Select the Site: Choose an area that is flat and close to the pool.
2. Measure the Deck Size: Make sure to account for the pool’s size and desired space around it.
3. Mark the Location: Use stakes and string to outline where the deck will be placed.
4. Clear the Ground: Remove any grass, weeds, or debris from the marked area.
5. Scrape Off Dirt and Grass: Dig down a few inches and get rid of any loose soil or vegetation.
6. Conditioning the Pallets: Inspect pallets for damage and make any necessary repairs before use.
7. Smoothing the Surface: Rake over the cleared ground to level it out as much as possible.
8. Creating a Level Foundation: Add gravel or sand to help even out any remaining dips in the ground.

This list will ensure your pool deck has a strong, level base to rest on, making it both safe and durable.

Building the pool deck

Start the project by laying out the first load of pallets on the ground. Ensure they are heavy-duty and in good condition.

1. Position Pallets: Arrange the initial set of pallets around the pool area. Make sure they are level and stable.
2. Secure Additional Pallets: Acquire more pallets from sources like a Facebook listing. Lay them on old tarps and a swimming pool cover to protect the ground.
3. Form Deck Base: Connect all pallets securely with screws or nails to create a strong base for your deck.
4. Install Fence Pickets: Use fence pickets to border the deck’s perimeter. They provide added stability and a clean edge.
5. Round Front Edges: Round off the front edges of the pickets to ensure safety, preventing sharp corners.
6. Fill Gaps: Check for any gaps between pallets and fill them in with extra wood pieces to create an even surface.
7. Paint Cracks Dark: Cover any cracks with dark paint matching your deck color to make them less noticeable.
8. Apply Durable Paint: Coat the entire deck surface with thick, durable paint for protection against weather elements.
9. Check Stability: Walk across every section of your new pallet deck to ensure it’s firm and steady before use.

Adding finishing touches

Adding the finishing touches will perfect your pool deck project. Follow these steps to complete it with style and functionality:

1. Construct a Bench: Build a bench using pallets, stain it for weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
2. Seal Another Bench: Place another bench on the opposite side of the pool deck and seal it to protect against moisture.
3. Lay Underlayment: Secure the underlayment on top of the pallets to make the deck solid and stable.
4. Add Pool Floats: Include pool floats for relaxation and fun, enhancing the overall experience.
5. Install Steps or Deck: Add steps or an additional deck area for easy access and extra space around your pallet pool.
6. Plan Sunshade Sails: Prepare to install sunshade sails over the deck in a future phase to provide shade and comfort.

Maintenance tips

Regular maintenance keeps your pallet deck safe and long-lasting. Cleaning the deck is crucial. Rinse it with water to remove dirt and debris. Use a mild detergent if needed, but avoid harsh chemicals that can weaken the wood.

Let the deck dry completely before taking further steps.

Seal the pallets to protect them from weather damage. Choose a good quality sealant designed for outdoor use. Apply at least two coats for best results, making sure each coat dries thoroughly before adding another layer.

Sealing helps prevent moisture from seeping in, which can cause rot.

Check your deck regularly for any loose nails or screws. Tighten or replace them as needed to ensure stability and safety. Inspecting your deck every few months will help you catch small issues before they become big problems.

Wearing gloves while doing this protects your hands from splinters and sharp edges on the wood.

Keep an eye on potential signs of wear like cracks or warping in the wood planks or changes in color indicating mold growth because addressing these early ensures longevity of your pallet pool deck.

Conclusion

Building a pool deck with pallets can save you money and create a unique outdoor space. The process involves choosing quality pallets, preparing your area, and assembling the deck step-by-step.

Adding finishing touches like paint enhances durability and visual appeal. This project is budget-friendly, eco-friendly, and perfect for DIY enthusiasts looking to enhance their backyard.

FAQs

1. What materials do I need to build a pool deck with pallets?

You need wooden pallets, screws, nails, a hammer, a saw, and sandpaper.

2. How do I prepare the ground for the pallet pool deck?

Clear and level the area where you want to place your pool deck. Remove any debris or grass.

3. Can I use any type of pallet for building my pool deck?

Use sturdy and clean wooden pallets that are in good condition without cracks or breaks.

4. Do I need to treat the wood before using it for my pool deck?

Yes! Sand down rough edges and apply wood treatment to protect against moisture and pests.