Turn Your Pool Into a Deck: A Smart Alternative to Covers and Fill-Ins

An unused swimming pool often becomes more trouble than it’s worth. Between the maintenance, safety concerns, and limited functionality, many homeowners are looking for better ways to use that space. The challenge is finding a solution that doesn’t involve costly demolition or weeks of construction. If your goal is to simplify upkeep, improve safety, and gain a functional backyard, converting your pool into a durable, attractive deck could be the ideal answer.

Why Homeowners Want to Cover or Remove Their Pool

Pools can be wonderful amenities, but over time, they often become more of a burden than a benefit. Some of the most common reasons homeowners want to cover or remove a pool include:

• High maintenance and utility costs
• Safety concerns for children or pets
• Difficulty reselling a home with an old or broken pool
• Desire for more usable patio or garden space

Before investing in expensive pool removal or making temporary modifications, it’s worth evaluating smarter alternatives that meet your needs without damaging your property or limiting future options.

Common Ways to Cover an Unused Pool—And Their Drawbacks

If you’ve been researching how to cover a pool, you’ve likely encountered options like safety covers, dirt fill-ins, or makeshift wooden platforms. Here’s a quick look at each, and why they often fall short of expectations:

1. Safety Covers

Mesh or solid safety covers are often used to protect children and pets from falling into a pool. While these covers improve safety, they don’t provide a usable surface. You still have a large, non-functional structure taking up space in your yard.

2. Filling the Pool with Dirt

Some homeowners consider partially or fully filling in their pool with dirt or gravel. While this seems cost-effective at first, it usually requires permits, compaction, and drainage systems to avoid sinking or flooding. Once filled, the pool is permanently gone—and restoring it in the future would be extremely expensive.

3. DIY Platforms or Plywood Covers

Makeshift solutions like plywood decking or partial wood frames may offer temporary surface coverage, but they are not built for long-term use or safety. These can sag, rot, or become hazardous during weather changes, and often hurt home resale value.

Building a Deck Inside Your Pool: A Smarter Option

Instead of demolition or temporary covers, a custom deck installed inside your pool shell offers the best of all worlds. This innovative solution gives you a flat, walkable surface for relaxation, entertainment, or play—without removing the structure or damaging your yard.

Cost Comparison: Pool Demolition vs. Pool-to-Deck Conversion

*Estimates are based on average Arizona projects. Final pricing may vary depending on location and the scope of work.

Real Feedback from Homeowners

Here’s what verified homeowners had to say about converting their pool with Freedom Decks. View the full collection of reviews on GuildQuality.

“It was awsome the team we're great we would recommend this company you guys are great.”

– Ronald B., Phoenix

“They were very professional and cleaned up everything when completed.”

– Jodie O., Mesa

Who Should Consider a Pool-to-Deck Conversion?

• Homeowners with unused, aging, or broken pools
• Families with safety concerns for children or pets
• Seniors looking for a low-maintenance outdoor space
• Anyone seeking to reduce water use and upkeep costs
• Those who want flexibility without damaging property value

If you’re unsure whether to remove or repurpose your pool, a custom deck gives you time to decide—without the irreversible impact of demolition.

Reclaim Your Outdoor Space the Smart Way

A pool-to-deck conversion lets you turn unused space into a beautiful, functional surface—quickly, affordably, and with no demolition required.

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Frequently Asked Questions