Decks for Pools & Spas: A Practical Guide for NZ Homes
Building a deck around a pool or spa isn’t just about looks – it’s about safety, comfort, and long-term performance.
These areas place extra demands on materials and construction. Constant moisture, bare feet, heat exposure, and heavy use mean the wrong choice can quickly lead to movement, wear, or maintenance headaches.
At Trendset Build, we design and build pool and spa decks that are made to last. This guide walks you through the key considerations so you can choose a decking solution that performs as well as it looks.
1. What Makes Pool & Spa Decks Different?
Pool and spa decks are exposed to conditions that standard decks may not be:
Regular water exposure and splash zones
Increased humidity
Heat from spas and outdoor fireplaces
Higher slip-risk areas
Frequent barefoot traffic
Because of this, both material choice and subfloor design are critical.
2. Best Decking Materials for Pools & Spas
Hardwood Timber Decking
Hardwoods such as Kwila and Garapa are popular choices for pool surrounds.
Why they work well:
Dense and durable
Comfortable underfoot
Naturally resistant to wear
Things to consider:
Requires regular oiling
Will silver naturally if left untreated
Composite Decking
Solid composite decking is increasingly used around pools and spas.
Why it works well:
Very stable in wet environments
Low maintenance
Resistant to rot and moisture
Things to consider:
Higher upfront cost
Can feel warmer in full sun
Treated Pine Decking
Pine can be used around pools but requires careful detailing.
Why it can work:
Lower upfront cost
Readily available
Things to consider:
Higher maintenance
Shorter lifespan in wet environments
3. Slip Resistance & Safety
Slip resistance is one of the most important factors around pools and spas.
Consider:
Board profiles and surface texture
Direction of board laying
Drainage and fall
Gaps between boards for water run-off
Material selection should always be paired with thoughtful design to reduce risk.
4. Durability & Long-Term Performance
Moisture and heat accelerate wear on decking materials.
Hardwoods: Excellent durability when maintained
Composite: Highly stable and consistent over time
Pine: More prone to movement and wear
Investing in the right material upfront often reduces maintenance and replacement costs long term.
5. Design Integration
Pool and spa decks are often central to the outdoor living area.
We regularly integrate:
Built-in seating
Spa steps and access platforms
Privacy screens
Shade structures
Fireplaces and feature elements
A well-designed deck should feel seamless, safe, and inviting.
6. Our Advice
For pool and spa decks, we generally recommend prioritising:
Durability
Stability
Low maintenance
Comfort underfoot
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but the right guidance makes all the difference.
Thinking About a Pool or Spa Deck?
If you’re planning a pool or spa project, we’re happy to help you choose the right decking materials and design a solution that works long term.
Get in touch with Trendset Build to discuss your project.
Architectural detail. Quality materials. Built properly.