Unfortunately, that’s a pretty common question.  The answer is, it’s a deck built in the true style that decks are normally built.  Instead of building it out the back door, it covers the pool, usually flush with the surrounding surface.

Decks are not very common in the valley of Phoenix, because of the style of homes that we build.  The typical home does not lend itself to the addition of a deck.

For a deck to be built anywhere, we need at least a 12″ elevation above the existing ground.  Most back patios don’t lend themselves to that, BUT a pool cover does, because the bottom of the pool is usually over 3′ deep.

Good question…… Most people want the deck to handle parties, people, tables, DANCES! etc.

The answer is, YES!!    IT IS STRONG ENOUGH! The design is verified by a certified structural engineer, licensed by the state.

The decks are built to normal building standards for floors and decks and usually far exceed structural requirements, in fact most exceed commercial requirements for floor loading because of the way they are actually built.

You may want to put a spa on top of it, or drive over it.  In those situations, we may want to reinforce it a little.

Tell us your particular needs and we’ll be sure to create a beautiful deck that works for you and of which you can be proud.

Answer is…… IT DEPENDS!   Here are some of the variables that affect the cost of a deck.

• The surface area of the pool
• The span of the members
• The shape, a curved pool is more difficult than a rectangle
• Different levels, steps, or benches cost a little more
• The material used on the deck.  The composite material is much more expensive and also requires a more substantial deck structure

In all, there are up to 12 different factors that go into our calculations. Accuracy is very important to us. There could be other factors that may affect the cost also, but call any time for a free detailed quote.

Don’t be afraid to call.  We never mind giving information that helps our customers.

Most decks are done in about a week.  The larger more complicated decks take longer.  The simpler ones could be done in a few days.

Yes, water will pass through the deck openings.  We install a pump that sends the water back out to the backwash line on the pool filter and drops it on the ground away from the pool.

The pump is powered by a ground fault interrupt circuit that protects anyone from being shocked.  This is a standard requirement for the pool light circuit which we use to power the pump.  Sometimes the GFCI’s go bad after many years in the sun and the heat and may need to be replaced at any time along the way if they do not operate correctly.

Yes, on every deck, we make an access hatch which allows entry to below the deck.

Since water will come through, any item will need to be in a rain proof container. We have seen customers put Christmas decorations in the large plastic storage boxes. Any old pool equipment they want to save goes down there.

You may want to set some skids on the bottom to set things on so that when water comes in, it doesn’t collect underneath. Whatever goes below needs to be in a water proof container.

We also offer a hanging storage system.

Most pool surfaces are not meant to be without water in them. Some pool surfaces can go without water better than others. From what we see, surprisingly, the older plasters stand up better than the new ones.

Most likely the pool will have to be replastered or resurfaced when you are ready to use it again.

When you are ready to use the pool again, the deck can be removed, pool resurfaced, and it’s ready to go. The deck or supporting structure and equipment do not damage the existing pool structure.

As a matter of fact, Deckover has applied for patents for features that make it easier to remove the deck someday.

Yes, as follows:

• Composite deck planks usually have a 15-year warranty; some have a limited lifetime warranty on the decking planks that are used. The deck structure in Arizona carries a 2-year limited warranty on workmanship.  Check your local construction regulations for the time frame given in your area.
• Pumps, electrical, and other purchased components have a warranty as supplied by the manufacturer.

If you have any other questions, call us!  We’ll try to answer!

Yaaa …. don’t, unless you have an engineer as a good friend.