Then the concrete is poured into the form. Because the foam is porous, it is breathable and the form can be stripped quickly without creating damaging suction, so the pool edge can be finished at the same time as the rest of the deck.

One Last Detail: Drains

One final difference between most patios and pool decks is the requirement for drains. Stegmeier says most pool decks do not use round shower-type drains because the surface must "fall" down to the drain all 360 degrees around. Instead, Stegmeier recommends drains of continuous extruded PVC. These can be set in the center of a deck or put against a wall. Either way results in a flat deck. The amount of fall in this deck drain is the height of the drain. The drain is set on subsoil so it is uniformly level. The ends are open and drain into the yard sloped away from the pool or, with the use of adapters, into a drainage system. The newest drain from Stegmeier, the Frontier Deck Drain, has a flexible top that is held in place by tension so there arc no screws to come loose. It is easily removable for cleaning.

Once you've got the details of your pool deck worked out, there are a few things you need to remember. First, don't rush. Attention to detail and careful workmanship will pay off in customer satisfaction. Second, make sure the customer understands both the possibilities and limitations of concrete. Create a mock-up and have all parties sign off on it. Managing customer expectations will allow you to create a beautiful, functional pool setting, whether in a private backyard or a city park.

 

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