So you’ve got an above-ground pool, huh? Nice. But let’s be real—it’s just a big plastic tub without some flair around it. Don’t worry, you don’t need to sell your kidney to make it look good. Here are 20 cheap ways to make your pool area pop.
1. Pallet Decking
Old pallets. Sand them. Stack them. Boom, you’ve got a rustic deck. Paint them if you’re feeling fancy. Add cushions or fairy lights. It’s like a Pinterest dream on a budget.
2. Pea Gravel Path
Lay down some landscape fabric. Pour in pea gravel. It’s cheap, drains well, and looks neat. Plus, no muddy footprints in your house. Win-win.
3. Artificial Grass
Roll out some fake grass around your pool. No mowing, no watering, just green vibes. It’s soft underfoot and looks lush all year round.
4. Faux Stone Skirt
Cover the bottom of your pool with faux stone panels. They’re lightweight, easy to install, and look like the real deal. Adds a touch of class without the cost.
5. Herb Garden Border
Plant some herbs like mint, basil, or thyme around your pool. They smell good, look pretty, and you can use them in your cooking. Plus, they’re cheap and easy to grow.
6. Ornamental Grasses
Plant some tall grasses like fountain grass or pampas grass. They add height, texture, and a bit of drama. They’re low-maintenance and look great swaying in the breeze.
7. Recycled Tire Planters
Got old tires? Paint them, stack them, and fill them with flowers or plants. It’s eco-friendly, quirky, and adds a pop of color to your pool area.
8. River Rock Border
Line your pool with smooth river rocks. They look natural, help with drainage, and keep weeds at bay. Plus, they’re cheap and easy to find.
9. Stepping Stones
Lay down some stepping stones leading to your pool. They guide the way, look cute, and keep your feet clean. Mix and match shapes for a fun, eclectic look.
10. Hanging Baskets
Hang some flower baskets from hooks or a pergola. They add color, height, and a touch of elegance. Plus, they’re easy to water and maintain.
11. Vertical Garden
Install a vertical garden using pallets or trellises. Grow climbing plants like ivy or jasmine. It saves space and adds a lush, green backdrop to your pool.
12. Solar Lights
Stick some solar lights around your pool area. They charge during the day, light up at night, and cost nothing to run. They add ambiance and are super easy to install.
13. Floating LED Lights
Toss some floating LED lights into your pool. They change colors, float around, and create a magical atmosphere. They’re cheap and make night swims way more fun.
14. Mini Waterfall
Install a small waterfall feature. It adds a soothing sound, looks cool, and doesn’t cost much. You can buy kits or make one yourself with a pump and some rocks.
15. Fire Pit
Build a simple fire pit near your pool. Use bricks or stones to create a circle. It’s great for chilly nights and adds a cozy vibe to your backyard.
16. Pergola or Shade Sail
Put up a pergola or a shade sail over part of your pool. It provides shade, defines the space, and looks stylish. You can buy kits or make one yourself.
17. Outdoor Rugs
Lay down some outdoor rugs around your pool. They add color, define spaces, and feel nice underfoot. Plus, they’re easy to clean and move around.
18. Tropical Plants
Plant some tropical plants like palms or banana trees. They add a vacation vibe, grow fast, and look exotic. They’re cheap and make your pool area feel like a resort.
19. Driftwood Accents
Collect some driftwood and use it as decor around your pool. Lean it against walls, use it as a border, or make a sculpture. It’s free, natural, and adds a rustic touch.
20. Mosaic Tiles
Add some mosaic tiles to the edge of your pool or around the steps. They add color, texture, and a bit of sparkle. You can buy kits or make your own designs.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to spend a fortune to make your above-ground pool area look amazing. With a little creativity and some elbow grease, you can transform your backyard into a stylish oasis. So grab your tools, get to work, and enjoy your new poolside paradise.
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