How to Make a Concrete Pool Deck

Concrete pool decks are generally used for in-ground pools or ones that are dug out of the ground and installed below ground level. They only need maintenance every so often, unlike wood decks. Building one for your in-ground pool can not only be rewarding but can a lot of fun with your pool and outdoor entertainment area.

Step 1 – Measure Deck Area

Whether you’re building a new concrete deck or covering your old one, you need to take measurements so you can determine how much concrete you need. Measure first the perimeter of the pool. This is your inside boundary.

Next, measure the outside perimeter you’ve decided upon when you had your pool installed in the first place.

Also, decide how thick you want the concrete. About 5 or 6 inches is ideal. Buy your concrete accordingly.

Step 2 – Lay the Frame

Now that you have your measurements determined and your supplies all in one place, you can begin laying the frame for the concrete you will be pouring. Make sure you’ve made planned breaks in your frame—that is, spots where the concrete doesn’t quite meet up with other concrete, like sidewalks.

Start with your exterior frame first, going around the perimeter you’ve set, and then pound the wood into place with a hammer and nails. Repeat this process for the boards put in place for the planned breaks, and then the interior of your perimeter.

Step 3 – Pour Sand and Concrete

Begin this step by pouring sand and spreading it evenly over the ground inside your frame. Be careful not to get any sand in your pool- that could end up problematic later. You should have a good even layer of sand down, where all you see is sand.

Now mix up your concrete and pour it into the frame you’ve built. Have a friend help you spread the concrete out evenly over the sand as you pour or shovel it, and then use your hammer to hit the sides of the frame to coax any air bubbles out that you can.

Repeat this process until you have all the concrete poured in your frame.

Step 4 – Finish Concrete

Now that you’ve poured the concrete it’s time to texturize it so people that go swimming won’t slip on the cured and sealed concrete surface. So before it dries, pull a push broom over the surface of the concrete. It should make lines in the concrete just like you see on sidewalks. Wait for the concrete to dry.

Next, pull off the wood frame and sand down any barbs hanging off the sides. Fill in the planned breaks with rubber sealant, the black stuff you sometimes see in sidewalks also.

You’re all finished and your pool is ready to be thoroughly enjoyed by family and friends once the sealant dries.