Phase 7 — Decking & Hardscape • Homeowner Checklist • DIY Pools & Spas

Why this phase matters

Decking is the last big concrete day — it ties the whole backyard together. Confirm your selections, get drainage right, and don't skip the bonding inspection. The right joints, the right slope, and proper sleeves now save problems forever.

Customize first. Some items only apply to certain projects (spa, fountains, art rock, etc.). Toggle the Project Options below before printing or sharing.

Homeowner

Dig Date

Plan Ahead

Before This Phase

Confirm pre-deck inspection has passed (bonding wire halo around pool, four-point connection to steel cage).

Confirm material selections with sub: broom finish concrete, stamped, travertine, pavers, or porcelain pavers.

Pressure check at the equipment — must be holding before starting.

Walk the layout: 2% slope away from the house, drainage routing, any planter sleeves needed for irrigation/low-voltage wire.

Decide on concrete color (darker shows more mottling and retains more heat).

Confirm sub will install foam (Deco-Foam or similar) around coping for movement, replaced with mastic later.

Pour Day

Day Of

Pour should happen early morning to avoid hot-load cracking.

Confirm more score joints than fewer — joints control where cracks happen. Walk every joint location with the sub.

Verify all sleeves are in place for future drip lines, irrigation, low-voltage wiring.

Confirm downspouts tied into drainage and any required curb cores or pop-up emitters per jurisdiction.

Pay the concrete pump and concrete supplier directly if you can — keeps the bill transparent and may save markup.

Tarp the house and finishes near the pour zone.

Keep pets and people off the wet concrete!

Optional

Pro Tips

Wet down the concrete after pour per your sub's recommendation (typically wait 24 hrs, then keep wet).

If you plan to seal the concrete, wait 30 days after cure. Avoid glossy sealers — slippery near water.

Confirm sub runs water and low-voltage wire stubs to any planters around the pool for future drip systems and lights.

For stamped concrete, confirm release agent (powder or liquid) and pattern with sub.

Optional

Notes

Decking is in.

Slope is right, joints are placed, sleeves are run. Keep it wet, and prepare for plaster.