Creating a DIY Intex pool surround is one of the most rewarding home improvement projects for any pool owner. An exposed, metal-framed pool not only looks rugged and industrial, but it also requires significant upkeep to prevent rust and damage. By building your own surround, you transform a temporary above-ground structure into a permanent, stylish landscape feature that increases the overall value of your backyard sanctuary.
Why Choose a DIY Approach for Your Intex Pool?
While Intex pools are known for their affordability, the standard packaging and plastic components can appear cheap and uninviting. A DIY surround allows you to address these aesthetic issues while adding a layer of protection for the pool walls. You are not just building a barrier; you are creating a thermal mass that helps stabilize the water temperature and provides structural rigidity to the pool wall, reducing wall flex during seasonal changes.
Planning Your Layout and Material Selection
Before touching a tool, you must decide on the layout and materials that will define the look and function of your surround. The most popular choices involve pressure-treated lumber for a natural wood appearance, steel studs for a modern, sleek finish, or stacked stone veneer for a high-end masonry look. Regardless of your choice, accuracy is key. Measure the diameter of your pool precisely and account for the thickness of the surround material to ensure proper water retention and access to the pool liner for future maintenance.
Material Comparison for Durability
Selecting the right material is the most critical decision in your project, as it dictates the longevity and maintenance requirements of the structure.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Wood | Cost-effective, easy to cut, classic look | Requires sealing, prone to rot if not maintained |
| Steel Stud Framing | Sleek modern look, highly durable, rot-proof | Requires metalworking skills, may rust if scratched |
| Stacked Stone Veneer | Luxury appearance, permanent finish | Heavy, expensive, complex installation |
Step-by-Step Construction Process
Once your materials are gathered, the construction phase begins. You will generally start by erecting a vertical frame directly adjacent to the pool wall. For wood projects, this involves digging post holes to support the vertical boards that will hold the horizontal boards in place. It is crucial to maintain consistent tension across the frame to ensure the surround remains square and does not bow outward when the pool is filled with water.
Integrating the Pool Wall
One of the technical challenges is integrating the flexible Intex wall with your rigid surround. You cannot simply screw the surrounding structure directly into the pool wall, as this would stress the liner and cause leaks. Instead, the best practice is to attach your frame to a ledger board fixed to the ground, or to use adjustable straps that tighten around the top rail of the pool. This allows the structure to stay firmly in place while the pool wall is able to expand and contract with the water pressure.
Finishing Touches and Safety Considerations
After the structure is built, the final steps define the quality of the project. If you are using wood, applying a heavy-duty exterior stain or paint is non-negotiable. UV rays and poolside moisture will degrade the material within a year if left unprotected. For the safety of swimmers, ensure that any gaps between the pool wall and the surround are minimized to prevent toes from getting caught, and consider installing a low-voltage lighting system around the perimeter for evening use.
Landscaping and Water Management
A finished surround is not complete without thoughtful landscaping. You should slope the ground away from the pool surround to prevent groundwater from seeping under the structure and destabilizing it. Adding crushed stone backfill behind the boards improves drainage and takes the pressure off the wood, significantly extending its lifespan. Additionally, planting low-growing ground cover around the base helps to hide the support posts and creates a seamless transition between the pool deck and the surrounding yard.
