Above Ground Pool Brick Surround

Enhance your backyard oasis with an above ground pool brick surround, a practical and stylish addition that not only elevates your pool's aesthetic appeal but also provides safety and functionality. This guide delves into the benefits, design ideas, and installation tips for creating a stunning and secure pool brick surround.

an empty swimming pool surrounded by grass
an empty swimming pool surrounded by grass

Before we dive into the details, let's explore why a brick surround is an excellent choice for your above ground pool. A well-designed brick surround adds value to your property, creates a cohesive look with your home's exterior, and provides a non-slip surface for safer pool access. Moreover, bricks come in a variety of colors, textures, and patterns, allowing you to customize your pool area to suit your unique style.

an empty swimming pool with steps leading up to it and flowers in the foreground
an empty swimming pool with steps leading up to it and flowers in the foreground

Designing Your Pool Brick Surround

When planning your pool brick surround, consider the overall layout, materials, and design elements that complement your home and landscape. Here are some design aspects to keep in mind:

an above ground pool surrounded by rocks and gravel in front of a house with lawn furniture
an above ground pool surrounded by rocks and gravel in front of a house with lawn furniture

Pool shape and size: The size and shape of your above ground pool will dictate the dimensions of your brick surround. Ensure the surround is large enough to accommodate pool entry and exit points, as well as any necessary equipment like ladders or stairs.

Choosing the Right Bricks

a pool surrounded by lawn chairs next to trees and water with palm trees in the background
a pool surrounded by lawn chairs next to trees and water with palm trees in the background

Selecting the perfect bricks is crucial for creating an attractive and durable pool brick surround. Consider the following factors when choosing your bricks:

  • Material: Clay bricks are a popular choice for their durability, affordability, and wide range of colors and textures. Concrete bricks are another option, offering excellent strength and customization possibilities.
  • Color: Opt for bricks that complement your home's exterior and landscaping. Neutral shades like beige, gray, or brown work well with various architectural styles, while bold colors can create a striking contrast.
  • Texture: Smooth, rough, or textured surfaces can add visual interest to your pool brick surround. Textured bricks provide better traction, making them an excellent choice for pool areas.

Layout and Pattern Options

an outdoor hot tub surrounded by brick steps and flowers in the back yard, with landscaping around it
an outdoor hot tub surrounded by brick steps and flowers in the back yard, with landscaping around it

Once you've selected your bricks, it's time to decide on the layout and pattern for your pool brick surround. Some popular options include:

  • Running bond: This classic pattern features bricks laid in a straight, horizontal line, with each brick's end butting up against the center of the next brick.
  • Stack bond: In this pattern, bricks are laid in straight, vertical columns, creating a clean, symmetrical look.
  • Herringbone: Named for its resemblance to the bones of a herring fish, this diagonal pattern adds visual interest and can help disguise minor installation imperfections.

Installing Your Pool Brick Surround

a small pool surrounded by stone steps in the middle of a yard with trees and bushes
a small pool surrounded by stone steps in the middle of a yard with trees and bushes

With your design plan in place, it's time to tackle the installation process. While hiring a professional is always an option, many homeowners find that installing a pool brick surround is a manageable DIY project. Here's an overview of the installation process:

Preparation: Begin by measuring and marking the area for your brick surround. Clear the site of any debris, and excavate the ground to a depth of about 8 inches. Lay a bed of gravel or crushed stone for drainage, followed by a layer of sand. Ensure the base is level and compacted before laying your bricks.

Brothers 3 Pools added a new photo. - Brothers 3 Pools
Brothers 3 Pools added a new photo. - Brothers 3 Pools
75 Pool Ideas You'll Love - June, 2025
75 Pool Ideas You'll Love - June, 2025
an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by brick walls and landscaping area with trees, shrubs, and chairs
an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by brick walls and landscaping area with trees, shrubs, and chairs
an above ground pool with lights around it and some chairs in the grass next to it
an above ground pool with lights around it and some chairs in the grass next to it
an empty pool in the middle of a brick patio with grass and bushes around it
an empty pool in the middle of a brick patio with grass and bushes around it
Above Ground Pools | The Spa Gallery in Springfield, MO
Above Ground Pools | The Spa Gallery in Springfield, MO
two lawn chairs sitting next to a swimming pool in a backyard with grass and trees
two lawn chairs sitting next to a swimming pool in a backyard with grass and trees
Outdoor Living Area With Brick Patio Ideas 2026
Outdoor Living Area With Brick Patio Ideas 2026
an above ground swimming pool surrounded by wooden decking and chairs with a fire pit in the middle
an above ground swimming pool surrounded by wooden decking and chairs with a fire pit in the middle
an above ground swimming pool surrounded by landscaping
an above ground swimming pool surrounded by landscaping
an above ground swimming pool surrounded by gravel
an above ground swimming pool surrounded by gravel
a backyard with a pool and patio furniture
a backyard with a pool and patio furniture
Pool Landscape Designs | pool landscape | landscape design above | ground pool ideas
Pool Landscape Designs | pool landscape | landscape design above | ground pool ideas
a backyard with an above ground pool surrounded by lawn furniture and landscaping lights at night
a backyard with an above ground pool surrounded by lawn furniture and landscaping lights at night
a stone wall around a pool in a backyard
a stone wall around a pool in a backyard
an above ground swimming pool surrounded by landscaping
an above ground swimming pool surrounded by landscaping
an above ground swimming pool surrounded by lights and seating around the perimeter is lit up at night
an above ground swimming pool surrounded by lights and seating around the perimeter is lit up at night
an above ground pool with steps leading up to the deck and seating area next to it
an above ground pool with steps leading up to the deck and seating area next to it
an above ground pool with steps leading up to it
an above ground pool with steps leading up to it
an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by brick walls and plants on either side of the pool
an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by brick walls and plants on either side of the pool

Laying the Bricks

Start laying your bricks along one side of the pool, using a string line and level to ensure the first course is straight and level. Continue laying bricks, using a trowel to apply mortar as you go. Stagger the joints between courses to create a strong, stable structure. As you work, periodically check that your bricks are level and aligned with the string line.

Once you've laid the bricks around the perimeter of your pool, you can create any desired patterns or designs. Use a rubber mallet to tap down any bricks that aren't level, and clean off any excess mortar as you work.

Finishing Touches

After the mortar has cured, apply a sealer to protect your bricks from moisture and stains. Allow the sealer to dry completely before using your pool. Finally, add any finishing touches like landscaping, outdoor lighting, or poolside furniture to complete your backyard oasis.

Enjoying your above ground pool with a stunning brick surround is now within reach. By following this guide, you'll create a functional, attractive, and safe space for years of summer fun. So go ahead, dive in, and make the most of your backyard retreat!