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You have the pool. The water is sparkling, the sun is shining, but something is missing. You need a place to lounge, a spot for the kids to dry off, and a solid surface to anchor your backyard oasis. You need a deck.
But before you start dreaming of poolside margaritas, you need to talk numbers. The most common question we hear from homeowners is simple: how much is it to build a pool deck?
The short answer? Heading into 2026, most homeowners spend between $5,000 and $15,000 for an average-sized pool deck. However, that price tag can swing wildly, from a simple $2,500 platform to a luxury $35,000+ multi-zone masterpiece, depending on materials, size, and the rising cost of skilled labor.
As professional siding and deck contractors, Sidex has built countless pool decks across Northern California. We know that “average” costs rarely tell the whole story. This guide breaks down the real-world cost to build a pool deck in the current market so you can budget with confidence.
How Much Does a Pool Deck Cost by Type?
The biggest factor in your budget is the type of pool you have. An elevated deck for an above-ground pool requires structural engineering that a ground-level patio simply doesn’t.
Above Ground Pool Deck Prices
Building up is almost always more expensive than building out. Above ground pool decks cost more because they require a complex support system. We aren’t just laying boards on the ground; we are sinking posts, pouring deep concrete footings, and installing heavy-duty cross-bracing to ensure the structure is stable 48 to 52 inches in the air.
- Average Range: $4,000 – $12,000+
- The “Splash Pad” (Small Platform): If you just want a 6×6 landing with stairs for safe entry and exit, how much to build a pool deck of this size is typically $2,500 – $4,500.
- The “Half-Wrap” (Side Deck): A deck that runs along one side of the pool (enough room for a few lounge chairs and a table) usually lands in the $6,000 – $10,000 range.
- The “Full Surround”: A massive deck that completely encircles the pool offers the ultimate resort feel but requires significant lumber and labor, easily pushing above ground pool and deck cost totals over $18,000.
In-Ground Pool Deck Cost
For in-ground pools, homeowners are building elevated lounging zones, often called “cabana decks,” to create a separate destination in the yard. When calculating how much it costs to build a deck of this caliber, the complexity of the terrain plays a massive role.
- Average Range: $7,000 – $25,000+
- Cost Per Square Foot: Expect to pay $35 – $75 per sq. ft. for professionally installed wood or composite decking around an in-ground pool.
The Material Breakdown
When asking how much it costs to build a pool deck, choosing the best decking material for a wet environment is the single biggest lever you can pull.
1. Pressure-Treated Wood (The Budget Friendly Choice)
If you are looking for the lowest pool and deck cost, pressure-treated pine remains the industry standard. It is strong, widely available, and affordable.
- Cost: $25 – $40 per sq. ft. (installed)
- The Reality: While cheap upfront, wood near a pool is a maintenance sponge. It absorbs splash-out water, which leads to swelling, cracking, and splinters. If you don’t seal it annually, you will be replacing boards within 5-7 years.
- Best For: Small wood deck cost around pool projects where budget is the absolute priority.
2. Cedar & Redwood (The Premium Wood Choice)
For that classic, warm California aesthetic, you can’t beat Redwood. It naturally resists rot and insects better than pine, but it comes with a higher price tag.
- Cost: $35 – $55 per sq. ft. (installed)
3. Composite Decking (The Low-Maintenance Hero)
Composite has become the default choice for pool decks. Why? Because nobody wants a splinter in their bare feet.
- Cost: $50 – $80+ per sq. ft. (installed)
- The Value: It won’t rot, warp, or fade. It is highly resistant to chlorine and saltwater splash-out. While the upfront cost is higher, the “lifetime cost” is often lower because you never have to buy stain or sealer.
4. PVC Decking (The "Cool-Touch" Revolution)
PVC is 100% synthetic (no wood fibers). In 2026, new “Cool-Touch” PVC boards are dominating the market because they solve the biggest complaint about plastic decking: heat. These advanced boards reduce heat absorption by up to 35%, protecting delicate feet and paws from scorching summer surfaces.
- Cost: $60 – $95+ per sq. ft. (installed)
- The Verdict: It is the most expensive option, but for a pool deck in full sun, it is the only material we recommend for maximum comfort.
How Much Does a Small Wood Deck Cost Around a Pool?
Let’s get specific. Many homeowners don’t need a massive entertainment complex; they just want a functional space to get in and out of the water safely.
For a standard 10×10 foot (100 sq. ft.) pressure-treated wood deck adjacent to an above-ground pool:
- Materials: $1,200 – $1,800 (Reflecting 2026 lumber tariffs)
- Labor: $2,000 – $3,500 (Reflecting skilled labor shortages)
- Total: $3,200 – $5,300
Important Note: This price assumes a simple rectangular design. If you want the deck to curve and hug the round shape of your pool, the labor cost will jump significantly. Cutting radius curves requires advanced carpentry skills and takes nearly twice as long to frame.
Hidden Factors Influencing Above Ground Pool Deck Prices
The sticker price on the lumber is just the beginning. When calculating how much does a pool deck cost, you must account for these technical expenses that are rising in 2026:
1. Electrical Bonding & Grounding (The Safety Essential)
This is the hidden cost that shocks most homeowners (pun intended). Electrical codes require that all metal parts of a pool deck (including railings and hardware) be “bonded” to the pool water’s bonding grid. This prevents stray electrical voltage from shocking swimmers.
- Cost: $500 – $1,500 for a licensed electrician to install the grid.
2. Permits and Engineering
One of the most common questions we get is if you need a permit to build a deck. Yes, you almost certainly do. Pool decks have strict safety codes regarding “pool barriers,” specific deck railing height requirements, and non-climbable surfaces to keep children safe.
- Cost: $500 – $1,800 depending on your city’s valuation fees.
3. Stairs and Safety Gates
A simple staircase is standard, but the gate is where it gets tricky. Code requires specialized hardware that ensures the gate snaps shut automatically every time.
- Cost: Add $400 – $800 to your budget for a code-compliant gate system.
DIY vs. Pro: How Much to Build a Pool Deck Yourself?
If you are handy, you might be tempted to tackle this yourself to save money.
- DIY Cost: Roughly 45-50% of the total price (Materials only).
- Pro Cost: 100% (Materials + Labor + Warranty).
Warning: Pool decks are structurally complex. They must support the dynamic weight of jumping people, heavy wet furniture, and potentially heavy snow loads in winter. A DIY mistake here isn’t just a cosmetic issue like a crooked tile; it is a serious safety hazard. Furthermore, professional contractors (like us) ensure your deck meets the complex “pool barrier” code requirements that most DIYers miss, saving you from a failed inspection down the road.
The Bottom Line
So, how much is it really to build a pool deck?
- Budget Shopper: Plan for $4,000 – $7,000 for a functional, rectangular pressure-treated wood deck for an above-ground pool.
- Mid-Range: Plan for $10,000 – $18,000 for a high-quality composite deck with safe railings and ample space for a dining table.
- High-End: Plan for $25,000+ for a custom, multi-level “Cool-Touch” PVC deck with integrated LED lighting and custom curved designs.
For a precise number, you can’t rely on internet averages. You need a quote based on your specific yard, your specific pool, and your family’s needs.
Stop guessing and start building. Get a clear, honest, and competitive quote from the experts who know Northern California backyards best. Contact Sidex, your trusted siding and deck contractors today, and let’s get your pool ready for summer.