Artificial Turf is the New Deck

For a fresh take on designing your new swimming pool and patio area, consider an artificial turf lawn for the deck instead of traditional materials like pavers or concrete. A swath of green extending around your pool can give you a softer and more organic look for your outdoor living space while providing you with a great overall monetary value. Artificial turf provides a distinct backyard setting along with practical benefits for almost any lifestyle. Whether you have children who love additional play areas or are looking for a low maintenance clean look, artificial turf can work in conjunction with almost any design style.

There are two key approaches to using grass for your “deck” configuration.

One is to forgo all hard-deck materials and make your swimming pool “deck” entirely from turf. Surrounded only by greenery, your pool area will have a more relaxed, natural appearance. You can opt to include a step stone or a brick path that extends from the pool steps along a route that swimmers are likely to take, such as to the home’s back door or a grill area.

The other approach is to mix grass and hardscape. Install stone or concrete in only one area around the pool, and complete the rest with the soft, lush green alternative.  Artificial Turf’s durability allows it to work as a multifunctional use.  You leave it open like traditional grass or place lounge chairs in the grass to use more like traditional decking surfaces. With this combination method, a popular technique is to place the hardscape material in the area that receives the most use. Frequently, this is the stretch between one side of the pool—typically where the entry steps are located—and the back of the house.

An additional benefit when using artificial turf instead of traditional decking materials is that it will shorten the project’s build time. Artificial turf “decking” will give you a refreshing current look while creating a significant value to the overall budget of the project than traditional hardscape deck materials.

Dreaming of starting a new project? Our videos on how to establish a budget for your next backyard project and how long does it take to build a pool will help prepare you for next steps!