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1) The Plan: Elevate, Not Just Install
– The goal was simple in theory: take a humble above ground pool and elevate it with a deck that looks classy, not cheap. – The creator documented every step, promising to share a running tally and full price breakdown at the end. Spoiler: there are some big-ticket items and a lot of hands-on problem solving. – The vibe? DIY-savvy, budget-conscious, with a dash of “let’s see if the internet comes for me on Reddit.” FYI, Reddit reacts fast when you skip poured footers or take a shortcut.2) Site Prep: Leveling and Groundwork That Actually Matters
– Level ground is non-negotiable for above ground pools. A few inches of slope can spell disaster, so the first order of business is a level base. – The process: clear the area, remove pavers, and deconstruct old deck elements that might interfere with a new setup. – Tools and tactics worth noting: – Laser level and tape measure to map slope. – Post hole digger to mark depth, followed by heavy digging through roots and hard dirt. – A tractor rental for big moves — yes, this is the “fun” part, but it’s a game-changer. – A stump grinder to clear stubborn roots, which helps prevent future settling and water pooling.3) The Groundwork Costs: Where the Money Flows
– Pool purchase: $1,387 for a 12×20 Intex setup with ladder and filtration system. – Ground prep gear and services: stump grinder rental, tractor use, and assorted tools add a sizable chunk. – Concrete blocks for pool feet: 24 blocks for about $58, doubled up in spots due to over-digging. – Foam underlayment and moisture control: 9 sheets of 1-inch foam for around $280, plus sealing tape. – The big takeaway: you’ll likely spend a few hundred to over a thousand dollars on site prep depending on your soil, root mess, and equipment needs.4) Pool Setup: A Trial by Water and Wrinkles
– The pool goes on after a dry, level surface, with a tarp, foam, and careful placement of the wall and legs. – A cost-friendly note: filling 8,500 gallons cost about $34 in water, a reminder that water is often cheaper than you fear—until you realize how long you’ll keep it circulating. – The water is level within a narrow margin, and the deck-to-pool alignment is checked repeatedly. It’s the small tolerances that make or break the look when you’re aiming for “classy” instead of “trashy.”5) Deck Plan: From DIY Demo to Real-Deal Pergola-Level Build
– The deck uses existing house deck framing as a baseline, with a mix of materials chosen to stay within budget. This is not a “code-compliant, inspector-approved” guide, but it does capture real-world DIY:: – Use of 4×4 posts to support beams, with careful spacing and a laser level to keep things even. – Beams: two 2x8s, joined with toenails and careful alignment with joist hangers. – Temporary access created for kids, then swapped for a full, permanent deck later. – The goal: make the deck look seamless with the existing house deck so it feels like one large platform rather than two separate pieces.6) Joists, Blocking, and Touches That Prevent Squeaks Later
– Joists: laid out with careful spacing, then trimmed to length with chalk lines to maintain even gaps. – Blocking added between joists for strength; a little extra support goes a long way when you’re walking barefoot on a hot Georgia afternoon. – Joist tape applied to slow down rot and moisture intrusion, a smart long-term preventive step. – Railing posts spaced to code in spirit (6 feet on center), with blocking, shims, and robust fasteners to withstand playful kids and all-weather wear.7) The Finishing Layer: Decking, Rails, and Those Little Details
– Deck boards chosen and cut to length, with careful gaps to avoid standing water. A “bigger gaps, less pooling” approach helps with drainage. – Railing caps, posts, and decorative touches like solar light post covers add nighttime charm without breaking the bank. – A 3D-printed pool skimmer, gasket materials, and a laser-cut side inlet for leaves and debris show the DIY spirit in action. – A solar cover and a roll-up holder finish the picture, helping to extend the swim season and keep heat in.8) The Final Touches: Staining, Sealing, and Protection
– A deck stain choice that blends well with the pre-existing deck helps blend new and old for a cohesive look. – A six-inch brush on an extension pole makes staining painless, so you actually finish the project instead of abandoning it halfway. – The stain choice hides grain but protects against the elements, which is a practical trade-off many DIYers accept for a longer-lasting finish.9) The Price Breakdown: Was It Worth It?
– Pool: $1,387 – Water fill: $35 – Building supplies (lumber, fasteners, joist hangers, etc.): about $434 – Deck and pool accessories (skimmer, railing hardware, lighting, etc.): about $812 – Stump grinder and rental: $477 – Grand total: roughly $7,060 – The verdict? It’s a chunky number, but you’re getting a deck that visually elevates the pool and gives you a real backyard feature, not a throwaway setup.Subsection: What If You Want to Do It Cheaper?
– Reuse as much of the original structure as possible, especially if you’re protecting against weather and rot. – Consider poured footers or 6×6 posts if you live in an area with winds or frost lines; although the Georgia environment in this video favored 4x4s, your area might demand more robust footings. – Borrowing or sharing equipment like the tractor can dramatically reduce costs and time.10) Community Voices: Reddit and Real-World Feedback
– The video’s Reddit post drew a mix of reactions: “not bad for DIY” and calls for poured footers, with people debating stance and depth. – The collective verdict leans toward admiration for the effort, with practical notes on structure and safety. It’s exactly the kind of crowd-sourced critique that helps DIYers anticipate issues.Subsection: Common Critiques and Practical Fixes
– Footers: Some commenters prefer 6×6 posts with poured footings for stability. If you’re in a windy or sloped area, that’s wise to consider. – Leveling: Ground prep is the make-or-break step for long-term stability. If you don’t get it right, you’ll be chasing issues for years.FAQ
What’s the starter cost for the pool itself?
The pool used in the project cost about $1,387, which covers the liner, ladder, and filtration system. That’s the gateway price to the rest of the build.
How important is level ground for an above ground pool?
Very important. Level ground prevents catastrophic failures and keeps the pool structure balanced. The video highlights leveling with laser tools, digging, and a tractor rental to get the site ready.
Are 4×4 posts OK for a deck, or do I need 6×6?
In this build, the author used 4×4 posts to mirror the existing deck and save money. In many regions, 6×6 posts with proper footings are recommended for added stability, especially in wind-prone or frost-affected areas. Check local code and wind loads for your project.
What about long-term maintenance and rot protection?
Joist tape, copper coat on cut ends, and a solid stain are all smart steps. The video uses joist tape to extend life under the boards and a protective finish to guard against moisture and sun.
Is this a beginner-friendly project?
It’s doable for a committed DIYer, but it’s not a walk in the park. You’ll handle site prep, lumber cutting, drilling, and deck assembly. If you’re unsure about structural safety or local codes, bring in a pro for key steps like footings and railing assembly.