Swimming pools are not as expensive or as tedious to install as in days gone by. This is because of advances in technology – most importantly, modern polymer materials that are lighter, easier to use, and highly durable.
Of all your swimming pool options, an above ground pool is going to be the cheapest and in many ways, more practical. An above ground pool is quicker and easier to install, there’s no need to dig into the ground and remove the debris that is left behind. Small, inflatable above ground pools can be installed and taken down in a very short time and it requires very little skill to do this. This makes them easy to disassemble and store in winter. These are, however, not big family sized pools. Larger above ground pools have a frame made from, steel, resin or aluminum and take a little more skill and time to install. This means that you won’t easily be taking them down and you’ll, therefore, need to maintain the pool in winter. An above ground pool that uses a frame will cost more to buy and maintain, but will cost less than a below ground pool.
Whether you go for the easy option of an inflatable above ground pool or one that has a frame, there are other advantages to buying an above ground pool. Even an above ground pool with a frame can be disassembled and moved. This means that you can take them with you when you relocate. This makes them the best swimming pool if you’re renting the property where you live or if you know that you won’t be staying in your current home for very long. The time it takes to assemble and disassemble any above ground pool makes them very practical and easy, ideal for DIY guys who don’t want to spend money on paying contractors to do the work.
If you have your mind set on buying an above ground pool, there several points that you need to consider before diving in head first and spending your cash. This article is going to guide you through the process and help you make the right choices and plan correctly.
Budget correctly
While an above ground pool is your cheapest option, there are many types and the cost varies greatly. So your first decision is going to be to choose a style and price that fits your budget and needs. You’ll usually find that above ground pools are cheaper in the fall and beginning of winter when demand is low. So it’s a good idea to shop around for a good deal around this time.
Once you’ve chosen the right above ground pool for your needs, there are other costs that you need to consider and planning for this is important. A very small splash pool won’t require anything extra – you set it up, use it, and empty it when you’re done. Larger pools require a pump and filtration system. Remember that these pools will also require regular maintenance. So you’ll need to keep your running costs in mind – buying chemicals to keep the water clean, hygienic and algae-free. You’ll also need a swimming pool cleaner.
Having covered the basics, you want to look the other factors. If you intend putting a deck around your above ground pool, this is going to add to your costs and you should look at your different options. You may also need ladders to get into and out of the pool. You’ll need to do some preparation before installing your above ground pool. This may entail some excavation to level the ground and it’s always best to lay down a layer of river sand or building sand to protect the base of the pool. Take all these cost factors into account and leave a contingency fund for unexpected expenses – you never what you might encounter once you begin work.
Planning
Fortunately, an above ground pool doesn’t require much construction and this makes it much less complicated to plan for. You will have to some planning in advance, though.
Firstly, you should check any city planning regulations regarding swimming pools in your area. You don’t want to find out too late that your above ground pool isn’t legal. Then you need to look at your yard and consider the size and shape of the pool that you want to buy. Above ground pools are generally round or oval in shape. A round pool will give you the biggest area/volume but an oval pool can be more practical in terms of maximizing your available space. If you intend constructing a deck around the pool, make allowance for the extra space that’s needed. Also make sure that you’ve made adequate provision for steps and the like, to gain access to your pool and/or deck.
If you have young children, it’s best to have the pool within easy eyesight of the house. Consider the surrounding environment as well. The more sunlight that your pool gets, the warmer it will be – shady areas are not the best for a swimming pool. Windy areas also cause the pool to be colder and the wind will blow debris into the pool, so placing it somewhere that is sheltered from the wind is important. You also don’t want it to be too close to trees that shed a lot of leaves – this makes it much easier to keep the pool clean.
Finally, and very importantly, make sure that your above ground pool is placed on ground that is 100% level. Even the slightest slope will cause the water level inside the pool to be unbalanced with more water pressing against the sides of the pool at the lower end of the slope. This will affect the structural integrity of the frame and it’s the frame that holds your above ground pool together – so is of the greatest importance.
Safety
Local authorities may have a number of public safety rules and recommendations for where and how your above ground pool can be constructed – you need to be aware of these. For the safety of your family, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
I’ve already mentioned visibility – it’s important for you to see the pool from your house. If you have pets that could fall or climb into the pool and then be unable to get out, it’s a good idea to fence the pool off so that your pets can’t gain access.
Swimming pool hygiene is of vital importance. This means having a good filtration system and a pump that provides adequate circulation. You’ll need to keep the PH balance correct and this means checking it with a PH kit or probe. You’ll need to monitor this regularly (at least once a week) and add the correct chemicals as needed – either pool acid or chlorine. Once a year it’s recommended to treat your pool with an algae treatment. A good pool cleaner, a pool brush and skimming net are some of the basic tools that you’ll need to get in order to keep your pool clean.
Accessories
An above ground pool can have all the same accessories as any other pool. Pool water heaters are very popular and can be installed at any time - you don’t need to plan for heating when you first install the pool.
Many people prefer salt pools and there are systems that can be installed for this. You can also buy an automatic chlorinator that makes for much easier pool maintenance. Other things can add to your family fun like slides and volleyball nets.
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