Deckman,

We installed a 28' pool earlier this year and poured pea gravel around it "3-6" deep 4' out all the way around as a temporary walkway. I am starting the splash deck and understand it is ok to place blocks directly on top of crushed gravel. What about pea gravel (small river rock). Should I bury blocks in gravel and set on ground?

Also, I was told by a contractor that I could build the sections without hangers if I used 4-5 3" ring shank nails at each connection. He said to be sure and use screws everywhere else and lags for cross bracing. This way saves a little time and money. What do you think?