Build Above Ground Pool Next To Deck

by Jim
(Ma.)

I'm trying to figure out how far away from my existing deck should I construct my 15x30 above ground pool. My top rails are 8" but I'm not sure if the top rails are equal distance on both sides of the pool wall.

I would like to end up with at least 1" between the top rail and the deck. Love this website. Thank you. Jim


Hi Jim. I would set the pool about two feet from the deck so that I have room to walk around the pool while I'm constructing it. That's the only way I can stretch the liner into the pool like shown on this page.

Overlap Liners

If you are using an overlap liner this would be the way I would install it and decks just get in the way. In my opinion it is impossible to build a pool up next to a deck correctly. It can be done, but you sacrifice a lot of quality in the pool installation, and that should not be done. I tell my customers it is better for me to set the pool away from the deck and build it correctly and when the pool is done it's not that hard to redo the deck to fit the pool.

The only exception to this would be if you are using a beaded liner. If that's the case you will not be stretching the liner into place and walking room around the pool is not important. Much of the work around the deck area can be done from inside the pool.

I would start the layout with the expected edge of the pool about a foot from the deck. That should allow enough room for the large top rails. This will get you close enough to get the braces laid out and built. When the first brace assembly is built and set into place you should be able to set a rail on it and see if it fits the deck the way you want. With the first brace set the way you need it to be it should be easy to lay out and assemble the rest.

Most brace assemblies connect side to side with straps. If that's the case you could actually make minor adjustments after the pool is assembled. You would set the braces, lay out the ends, level everything up and then install the wall. With the wall installed you could assemble all the uprights and top rails. At this point, as long as you have not piled sand on the straps, the pool could actually be shifted one way or the other for a perfect fit.

Hope this makes sense and helps a little.