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Wooden Wonder: The Advantages of Choosing Timber for Your Raised Pool Deck

21 June 2017

Troy Medina

An above-ground pool in your garden or yard can be a wonderfully effective way to bear the summer heat without going to the trouble and expense of having a below-ground pool excavated and constructed. However, while above-ground pools are much easier to assemble and install, actually getting in them can be challenging for some.

As such, raised pool decks are a common addition to backyard above-ground pools, providing easy access as well as the perfect area to luxuriate in the summer sun. If you do decide to have one of these decks installed, you will find a wide variety of prospective construction materials on offer, from cheap and cheerful vinyl to space-age aluminium -- however, for the ultimate in luxury and class, it's hard to beat a raised pool deck made from timber and assembled by quality carpentry services.

What are the advantages of choosing timber for my raised pool deck?

When your materials are carefully chosen and assembled, timber raised pool decks possess a wide range of advantages over other deck materials.

Durability

The durability of your deck depends largely on the wood you choose, but even very inexpensive decks made from ordinary pine or spruce can take a severe beating from time, the elements and the attentions of swimmers. When more durable hardwoods are chosen (jarrah and spotted gum are two excellent native hardwoods), you can expect fine service from your deck for decades to come.

Resistant to mould and insects

When treated with suitable preservative oils and stains, a timber deck can also last for years without falling victim to mould, termites and other wood-boring insects. Some choices of timber, such as red cedar and the ever-useful jarrah, are naturally impregnated with oils that deter insects and fungal growth and can be extremely effective when used in raised decking.

High load-bearing strength

Crucially for a raised deck, most timbers used by carpenters for decking have excellent load-bearing strength. This will allow your deck to handle the weight of many swimmers during parties and social functions and reduces the number of supporting columns and other reinforcements required to keep your deck supported.

Good looks

While vinyl and aluminium pool decks can look somewhat spartan and featureless, a timber raised deck can be an attractive addition to your garden in and of itself. With a near-limitless variety of timber shades, stains and grains to choose from, you're certain to find a timber that fits into your home's overall design scheme. Timber will keep its good looks as it ages, unlike other deck materials that can look distinctly shabby and dull after years of heavy use.

Custom manufacture

While raised decks made from synthetic materials are generally sold in a limited range of designs, engaging residential carpentry services to create a custom raised deck gives you a limitless array of style and size options for your deck. This is particularly valuable when choosing a deck for a compact or oddly-shaped pool area or if you just want to create a raised deck that is truly unique.

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