Wet decks, a play shelf, a sunning deck, a lounging shelf or a wading deck. It doesn't matter what you call it, this trendy element of today's swimming pool has become one of the must-haves for pool buyers.

Homeowners are definitely looking for more ways to utilize their pool area, and adding extra seating or entertainment areas where family members and guests can sit in the water are popular items on the options checklist.

The wet deck has become the gathering place for swimmers to mingle and relax in the soothing, cool water.

For those who lived at or frequently travel to the coast, taking a beach chair to the shoreline and positioning it in the sand so that the water gently rolls in and out over your feet is one of the those relaxing times that is difficult to replicate in the desert. However, integrating a wet deck in the pool is a great consolation.

Wet decks are an oversized step or landing area where several chairs can be placed comfortably inside the pool itself. This multifunction area is an idyllic place for everyone in the family, including pets and children, to enjoy the refreshing elements of the pool without the need to be constantly swimming about.

There is no additional cost involved to incorporate a wet deck into the design of the pool. But, additional costs may be incurred when adding special features to the wet deck area, such as nonslip surface tiles and natural stones decorated with ornamental mosaics like lizards, fish and mermaids.

Strategically positioned sleeves for umbrellas also can be added to provide shade and protection from the sun. Adding a flat-topped boulder or built-in, raised area will create a floating table that can be used for beverages and other poolside items.

To transform the wet deck into an active water feature, removable fountain bubblers can be installed during construction to give homeowners the option of inserting the bubblers during nonswimming activities.

Wet decks can be designed at different levels in the pool, either on the first or second step. If incorporated on the first step, the wet deck will be submerged at 6 inches under the waterline, which is great for someone who only wants a shallow wading area. The first-level deck gives tots an area to sit in or stand, and splash around and play with their water toys much like they would in a store-bought wading pool. Keep in mind the safety rule of constant adult supervision. Some parents even add a removable safety fence that attaches on the perimeter of the wet deck to isolate the shallow play area from the rest of the pool.

Positioning the wet deck on the second step will drop the deck to 18 inches below waterline. The wet deck then becomes more of a submerged bench for bathers to sit or lay in with their torso completely under water.

If possible, incorporating both wet deck levels into the design of the pool will afford even more options to enjoy. The decks can be positioned adjacent to each other or at different areas in the pool.

The wet deck also can provide easier access into and out of the pool for elderly individuals or someone with physical challenges.

I highly recommend using resin or plastic chairs on your wet deck, since a metal chair will rust and deteriorate from the pool chemicals, and because the metal can become extremely hot to the touch from the intense sun.

If you are looking to do a major renovation to the pool, wet decks can be an easy addition to the interior design.

Joe Vassallo is the president of Paragon Pools, as well as a member of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals, a certified building professional and a representative of the APSP National Builders Council, Region XI. Send questions or suggestions for column ideas regarding pools and spas to him at jvassallo@paragonpools.net or 251-0500.