How to Choose an Above-Ground Pool
There are four main types to choose from
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An above-ground pool is expensive and should last for many years. It's important to fully research your options, available shapes and materials, and the location in your yard where you envision your pool. For example, will a round, oval, or kidney-shaped pool fit best in your yard, how long do you expect your pool to last, and how will weather affect the location of your pool?
Read this buying guide to learn about types of above-ground pools and how to decide which type is best for you and your property.
What Is an Above-Ground Pool?
An above-ground pool is a pool that has exposed sides above the ground. Above-ground pools come in many shapes and sizes that fit a variety of uses and situations. Materials can include semi-submerged fiberglass, steel, aluminum, and plastic or composite frames with vinyl liners. Each type has pros and cons based on the location where the pool will be installed.
Before Buying a New Above-Ground Pool
Consider every variable when deciding what type of pool to get to ensure you purchase the best above-ground pool for your needs. This includes location limitations, material preference, shape, usage, and budget.
Buying Considerations for an Above-Ground Pool
Location
The spot where you envision installing a pool can help you decide what pool to purchase. Here are tips on choosing a pool location:
Placing your pool on a cleared, flat piece of land without trees nearby limits the debris that falls into the water.
Picking a location with full sun keeps the pool water warm and extends the pool season for as long as possible.
Installing a pool on a slope or hill increases costs and limits your options on pool types. For example, avoid installing a vinyl pool on a hillside because the structure of a vinyl pool will not be rigid enough to contain the water.
Shape
Above-ground pools come in rectangular, circular, oval, kidney, or customized freeform shapes.
Aluminum or steel wall pools are available in rectangular, circular, and oval shapes.
Fiberglass pools can be formed into a custom-shaped pool, such as a kidney shape.
Pool Features
Pool features include fountains, lights, automatic cleaners, heaters, and high-end pool toys but they may not always work well in above-ground pools. Here's why:
Pool lights can be difficult to mount on the sidewalls of most above-ground pools.
Automatic cleaners are not usually recommended for above-ground pools because they can't typically climb the walls.
Pool heaters may not work for a vinyl-walled pool as the heat will warp the pool over time.
Pool Machinery Options
The main types of pool filters are sand and DE filters with some key differences between the two.
Sand filters are the more common type for most pool installations and are affordable and easy to maintain.
DE filters use sand particles and high-pressure water to filter your pool. A screen catches the DE powder and microscopic particles before returning the water to the pool. The additional machinery necessary to maintain the filter makes this option more costly.
Chlorine or Salt-Based
Chlorine is the traditional, effective, and inexpensive method of keeping a pool crystal clear. However, chlorine irritates sensitive skin and eyes if used excessively. Saltwater pools have recently surged in popularity to alleviate this issue but consider the material of your pool before installing this system.
Saltwater pools use a salt generator and enough chlorine to keep the pool clean while it's running. Traditional pools have continuous chlorine in the water until it evaporates or is eaten by bacteria or sunlight.
A saltwater pool maintains its cleanliness by running every day. The generator is costly, the testing is complicated, and the machinery has to function properly to transform the salt into chlorine to keep the pool clean. However, saltwater pools are, gentler on skin and eyes and will help those allergic to chlorine enjoy a pool.
Warning
When considering a saltwater above-ground pool, note that salt can corrode vinyl liners, metal wall panels, and metal parts of frames. However, saltwater systems are compatible with fiberglass pools.
Types of Above-Ground Pools
Plastic Frame
Vinyl pools with a plastic or composite frame need to be installed on a flat surface. These pools are usually circular, square, or rectangular and easy to assemble and disassemble.
Steel Frame
Steel-framed pools are similar to plastic-framed pools but are more rigid. Steel pools must also be installed on a completely flat surface, though in some cases, they can be installed semi-submerged into the ground.
Semi-Submerged (Hybrid)
A semi-submerged pool can be a steel frame or fiberglass pool. It can be installed in hilly locations or semi-submerged into a flat piece of land.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass offers the most customized shape options for partially submerged above-ground pools. This type of pool is partially above-ground with up to 18 inches exposed. However, it should be installed against a rigid backing because the fiberglass itself is not strong enough to support the force of the pool water. Fiberglass is a good choice for surfaces that are not flat.
Tip
Inflatable above-ground pools are not new, but they are more popular than ever because they are affordable, easy to install, clean, and maintain, and come in all sizes. They are great if you want to test out a pool in your yard or prefer a pool that will last just a few seasons.
Cost
When choosing a pool, shop around at several pool companies to understand your options and how to get the most value for your money. Prices could start at $700 and go up to $5,000 depending on where you live and the type of pool chosen.
Here are more tips to consider when shopping for an above-ground pool:
Allocate as much of your budget as possible to a quality pool installation.
Choose an above-ground pool with a plastic or composite frame and vinyl liner if you have a limited budget.
Select an all-aluminum pool if you have a higher budget because it will last longer.
Install a fiberglass pool that can be semi-submerged in the ground or on the side of a hill. This type of pool is generally more expensive because the fiberglass portion needs to be encased in a box. (Fiberglass is not rigid enough to hold the water in without this braced support.)
Avoid purchasing a pool in the spring or summer when prices are at their highest. Visit showrooms in spring and summer and consider your purchase at the end of the season when prices drop to clear out the year's stock.
How to Choose an Above-Ground Pool
Decide first on a site for your pool. Next, consider your budget and determine which material, filter, and feature options are available in your price range.
Location
Is the location flat or hilly? Installing a pool on flat ground is less costly. Hills require a semi-submerged steel frame pool or a fiberglass pool.
Budget
Once you know what you can spend on installation in your chosen location, use the remaining budget to decide on the pool's material. accessories, and features. Ask salespeople in the pool showroom for itemized estimates to compare pools and features.
Filter Type and Chemicals
To keep maintenance costs low, choose a sand filter and chlorine pool. If you have chlorine allergies or want the clearest water possible, consider a more costly, complex DE filter as a better option.
Where to Shop
Always see a pool in person before purchasing. Use the information you gather to negotiate a better price online or at a competitive local pool warehouse.
Buying In-Store
Buying local means the salesperson may be familiar with your geographic area to answer questions about the life expectancy, warranty, and installation costs. Pool stores use trusted local installers that offer installation warranties, as well.
Buying Online
Purchasing a pool online saves you money, but you may not have immediate access to a local installer. However, it's a great way to save money if you plan to install a pool yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of above-ground pool is the most durable?
Steel or aluminum walls supported by resin (plastic) frame supports, rails, and caps are considered the most durable above-ground pool. Steel is strong but will rust over time. Aluminum is not as strong as steel and is more costly but it will not rust as fast and will last much longer.
What is the most popular pool size?
There are a couple of popular above-ground pool sizes. A round 24-foot diameter pool and an oval pool measuring 15 feet by 30 feet are two of the most popular pool sizes.
Which type of above-ground pool is the most high maintenance?
All types of above-ground pools are considered easier to maintain than in-ground pools. However, a partially submerged fiberglass pool with a saltwater system needs moremaintenance because of the machinery involved.
Do you need to put sand beneath an above-ground pool?
You do need to put sand beneath an above-ground pool so roots, twigs, and rocks do not puncture the liner.
Read the original article on The Spruce.
