Wooden pool ladders let you customize your backyard with style. Easily build one in a day, then fill your pool with water and friends in no time. If you’re new to the world of DIY projects, read on to learn how to build a wooden pool ladder that blends seamlessly into your landscaping.
When a pool ladder is made of wood, it adds a unique look to your swimming area. It also creates character and an inviting feel as you walk toward the pool deck. There are many designs for wood ladders, but instructions for building a freestanding pool ladder are easy to follow. Whether you plan to buy or build your own, there are several requirements and measurements that must be met when constructing a wooden ladder or climbing frame in order to ensure your safety.
A wooden pool ladder is an ideal choice because it’s sturdy and can hold more weight than a plastic one. The steps are also spaced more closely together than a typical plastic one, which makes for easier access into the pool. This guide shows you how to construct one of your own sumps.
Getting in and out of an above-ground pool is a lot easier with a permanent pool ladder. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to make your own, and you can use wood you have on hand or purchase new wood. With the right materials, some basic knowledge of woodworking, a few tools and supplies, some time and effort, you can build your own wooden pool ladder.
Step 1
The first step to building a wooden pool ladder is choosing an appropriate location for it. After you’ve settled on the perfect spot, your next task is to ensure that it’s level and sturdy by placing it on the ground and making sure it doesn’t wobble or lean too much in any direction. Then, use a measuring tape (or similar device) to make sure that the length of the ladder matches up with its intended use: if your pool is 12 feet deep, you’ll want to make sure this will be sufficient for how far down into it you’d like to reach.
Step 2
- Use a saw to cut the wood to size. Choose a saw that works with your particular type of wood and make sure you’re using the right blade for it.
- Drill holes for screws in each of the pieces of wood you want to use for your ladder. Make sure you get all four sides, as well as an extra side in case one breaks during construction or later on.
- Screw together all of the pieces using your drill and screws. Start by screwing one side piece into another, then add another side piece between them at an angle so that it doesn’t fall out when you’re trying to climb up or down. Use a screwdriver or hammer if necessary just be careful not to slip.
- Repeat step 2 until every piece has been screwed together (including the extra side). Make sure they’re tight enough so they don’t move while climbing up or down, but not so tight that they’ll crack before long due to friction with other parts nearby over time (especially those near joints).
Step 3
- Use a jig saw to cut the treads. Make sure you cut them all the same length, and that they’re all the same width as well.
- Cut them to the proper length and width using your measuring tape and pencil. Remember: If using pine or redwood, measure 1/4″ longer than desired size so you can sand down any rough edges later; if using pressure treated wood (which is more durable), just measure it normally because it won’t need to be sanded down in this case.
Step 4
- Attach the base to your deck.
- Attach the rails to the base of your ladder.
- Attach each railing to your deck with screws or bolts and washers.
Step 5
- Drill the guide holes in the wood using a drill bit slightly larger than your screws.
- Attach the wood to the pool ladder using screws and nuts. Make sure that you are attaching it at an angle so that water will run off of it and not pool up around your feet.
- Attach the wood to the deck by screwing it into place with screws and nuts, again making sure that you are attaching it at an angle so that water will run off of it, but not pool up around your feet when you are standing on top of it.
- Attach one end of a plank to each side of your pool by screwing them in place.
Step 6
You will need to drill holes in the board for the screws to go through. To do this, you should use a drill with a countersink bit. The holes should be drilled at an angle (about 30 degrees) to prevent splinters from tearing up your feet when you climb on them.
The best way to position your ladder is by putting it against the side of the pool and marking where each rung will go with some masking tape or painter’s tape. Then use that as your guide for drilling each hole where it needs to go; make sure not to put them too close together or too far apart.
Step 7
- Add a wood glue.
- Use a wood clamp to hold it together while it dries for about 30 minutes.
- Use a wood file to smooth out any rough edges and sand the entire surface of the ladder with 220-grit sandpaper. This allows you to have a smooth, even finish on your pool ladder so that no splinters or rough spots will be visible when you’re finished painting it.
- Paint your ladder with an exterior paint (optional). Let dry for at least 24 hours before moving on to the next step.
- Seal the surface with several coats of polyurethane sealant and let dry overnight between each application (optional). Apply three coats total if desired; this will help protect against water damage caused by UV rays in sunlight over time.
You can make your own pool ladder.
Instead, you can make your own pool ladder. You will be able to adjust it for different heights in the water and store it out of the way when not in use. It’s easy to install, easy to clean, and you will save money.
Final words
We hope that today’s tutorial has helped you to build a high-quality wooden pool ladder that will last for years to come, and most importantly, keep your family safe. Our biggest tip is to just take it slow and follow the steps carefully. Good luck with your project.
