is there a definition of a "pool deck" ?

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markjkubicki

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within several codes, reference is made to "the pool deck"; but I cannot seem to find a definition of "DECK"
- You might be inclined to say it is the paved area that surrounds a pool basin -How much of that area (the first 5ft, or at infinity: 75ft, 100ft, and beyond)?
- What if there is no paved area surrounding the basin whatsoever; ex: 1-side is an infinity edge, and all of the others are grass, with no visible surface coping (in reality, all of the edges are infinity: one is typical water's edge to sky, the others are water's edge to a thin at grade slot against grass

any discussion would be greatly appreciated
mark
 
I think the definition varies by jurisdiction, usually in the general building code, or in places like Florida and here in California, there is a separate "pool code". Here is the definition in the California Pool Code:

DECK is an area surrounding a pool which is specifically constructed or installed for use by pool users.
Click to expand...

That's the entirety. So an AHJ will have a lot of latitude with that. I would think that from an electrical standpoint, an infinity edge would be a moot point, because anything electrical there would be submerged and considered a pool light anyway. The grassy edge, or even the now popular beach edge here in CA is trickier. If the grass or sand goes to the edge, does that make ALL of the contiguous grassy or sandy area "for use by pool users"? To me, that's a question I would ask of an AHJ.
 
Jraef,

ah.... the old: "...or at the discretion of the local code enforcement agency" !

well I don't expect that I'll get more that, and I am thankful for this much (truly)
m.
 
To add to what Jraef said, I did a bit or research and found a tidbit.

RB465-13 requires that all swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs comply with the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (this code has deck provisions not currently required by the IRC).

http://www.deckmagazine.com/design-construction/railings/2015-deck-code-update_o

Going through the index shows that decks are pool decks and such are sections 306, 406, and 703.

Best I could find.
 
markjkubicki said:
within several codes, reference is made to "the pool deck"; but I cannot seem to find a definition of "DECK"
- You might be inclined to say it is the paved area that surrounds a pool basin -How much of that area (the first 5ft, or at infinity: 75ft, 100ft, and beyond)?
- What if there is no paved area surrounding the basin whatsoever; ex: 1-side is an infinity edge, and all of the others are grass, with no visible surface coping (in reality, all of the edges are infinity: one is typical water's edge to sky, the others are water's edge to a thin at grade slot against grass

any discussion would be greatly appreciated
mark
Click to expand...

When the entire edge is an infinity edge, it's referred to as a slot perimeter overflow. It gets tricky on the inspector's interpretation of the code.
As noted, sometimes there is no decking (sometimes we just call it a patio) and grass runs to the edge. Or, a section of the pool is raised above the grade. The perimeter bond wire though still gets runs-even in the grass.

We've built pools where a portion surrounding the pool is landscaping-plants, etc.. Only the remaining portion has deck material, pavers, concrete, natural stone, etc...

It's interesting. The pool light junction boxes are known as deck boxes.
 
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