Did you know you can build a pool deck out of pallets? And that it’s relatively easy? Well, if any of your friends or family members have access to a few pallets, they could have this DIY project knocked out in a weekend.
Are you looking for a unique deck that costs next to nothing and can be built in less than a weekend? Wouldn’t it be great to have a beautiful space that’s easy to maintain and belongs only to you? This project was originally inspired by HGTV.com when they featured a similar project that was made from concrete tiles… Ouch! Instead of concrete, I wanted something more eco-friendly and cost effective like a pool deck made from pallets since I also have a pool on my property. I also appreciate the rustic, yet modern look and feel of a recycled wood deck for my outdoor living space.
🛠️ Why Choose Pallets?
- Affordable & eco-friendly: Often free or cheap, upcycling wooden pallets saves money and landfill waste.
- Customizable design: You can build a single-level platform, wrap-around deck, built-in benches, or even a poolside bar.
📋 Materials & Tools
- Quality pallets (choose intact, solid wood—not broken or rotten)
- Pressure-treated 2×4 or 2×6 lumber (for frame/joists)
- Concrete deck blocks or pavers (to level and protect from moisture)
- Exterior screws/brackets & joist hangers
- Exterior-grade plywood or decking boards (optional topping)
- Landscape fabric, gravel & road mix (for weed control and drainage)
- Basic tools: saw, drill, level, tape measure, and sandpaper for finishing
⚙️ Step-by-Step Build Guide
1. Site Prep & Foundation
- Clear vegetation and level the ground. Lay landscape fabric and a compacted base of gravel or road mix.
- Position concrete blocks or pavers to support each pallet’s corners and any center supports.
2. Frame Structure
- Attach pressure-treated 2×4/2×6 lumber across the pallet bases using screws and joist hangers to create a strong frame.
- Include cross-bracing or joists beneath the pool area for extra stability.
3. Assemble the Pallet Deck
- Lay pallets onto the frame, spacing them evenly and securing with screws or brackets.
- Use long planks cut from pallets or lumber to create a smooth walking surface.
4. Add Decking Surface (Optional)
- Cover pallets with ¾” exterior plywood or decking boards for a smoother finish.
- Leave small gaps between boards for drainage and apply sealant or stain for weather resistance.
5. Extras: Benches, Bar, Steps, Planters
- Build seating and a bar directly into your deck using leftover pallet boards.
- Add safe steps using stacked pallets or trimmed lumber.
- Incorporate planters for decoration and a polished look.
💬 Tips from DIY Enthusiasts
On Reddit:
“Pallets will rot away on soil in 2 to 3 years… get pressure‑treated for 10–15 years of enjoyment.”
“Definitely treat the pallets with some wood treatment… like substitute creosote.”
Other remarks:
“The wooden pallet pool is a success… It’s surpassed all my expectations.”
✅ Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons & Cautions |
|---|---|
| Super affordable or free materials | Pallets on bare soil rot fast |
| Custom shapes and built-in features | May need reinforcement and moisture barrier |
| Eco-friendly reuse of materials | Replace every few years, or treat/preserve |
You can use this DIY pallet pool deck as inspiration for your own backyard project. Follow these steps:
1. Cut the pallets into long planks, leaving about 5 inches on the bottom of each plank for stability. You’ll need 8 planks per 4-foot section of deck, so plan accordingly. (You’ll also need some extra planks if you want to add extra features like a bar.)
2. Build up the sides of each plank with more wood or string them together with rope or wire so they don’t fall over when wet or weighed down with water from your pool filter system.
3. Lay down plastic sheeting underneath your pallet decking so that it’s easier to clean up when it gets dirty over time (or if you spill anything).
Pallet pools are a great way to save money and make your own pool. You can make one yourself with some pallets and some ingenuity.
The first thing you’ll need is a pallet pool kit. These kits come with everything you need to build a complete pool from scratch including the filter and pump. If you don’t want to make your own, you can buy an assembled one online or at your local home improvement store.
Once you have your kit, follow the instructions carefully and make sure everything fits together properly before filling up with water. When all is said and done, sit back and enjoy your new swimming pool!
Building a deck out of pallets is an easy project that you can do yourself and save some money at the same time. The best part about using pallets for your pool deck is that it will be one of the most unique decks in your neighborhood.
How to build a pool deck out of pallets:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
1. Lay Down the First Row |
|
2. Pre-drilling Holes |
|
3. Measure and Cut |
|
How to Build a Pool Deck Out of Pallets
Building a pool deck out of pallets is an easy and inexpensive way to get your hands on some free wood. The easiest way to do this is to use pressure treated lumber and follow the guidelines set by your local building code. This project is also a great way to repurpose old pallets into something useful.
Materials Needed:
– Pressure Treated Lumber
– Wood Glue
Step 1: Measure and Cut Lumber – Before you begin this project, you’ll need to measure and cut all of the pieces of lumber that you’ll need for your deck. Use 1x4s for everything except for the support posts, which should be 2x4s. There are two options for how you can cut your lumber: using a circular saw or using a skill saw with an angle adapter (this will allow you to make straight cuts on the top and bottom of each piece). If you choose option 2, be sure that you don’t round off any edges when cutting because it will make fitting pieces together much more difficult later on in the project.
🧩 Final Checklist
- Ensure solid, leveled base with drainage & weed control
- Use concrete blocks/pressure-treated lumber for moisture protection
- Reinforce deck frame beneath pallets properly
- Seal all wood and consider a plywood top for safety
- Add steps, railing, and finishing details for usability
👷 Who This Is For
- DIYers with basic framing and leveling skills
- Homeowners on a tight budget wanting functional outdoor space
- Those valuing creatively repurposed materials over longevity