Swimming pools are one of the investments that one can make on their property. They are not only a source of relief from heat but also provide an avenue for exercise. So however you cut and slice it, swimming pools are worth having.
That being said, however, it does cost a pretty penny to construct these holes in the ground. Check out this article to find out whether it makes financial sense for you to make such an investment.
So does that mean that you should do without it if you really want it? Thankfully no! There is an alternative that is more affordable and even versatile.
Above ground pools are great alternatives to their in ground counterpart. With these types of pools, all you need is the space and some little adjustments. This and other factors are what we would discuss in this article.
Types Of Above Ground Pools
There are different types of this category of pools and they can be classified by the material that they are made of. So in terms of materials, there are 3 options namely full metal, full resin and a hybrid of both materials.
Note however that every one of these contraptions usually has a metal wall with a liner made of vinyl. The difference comes in the top ledge, the posts and the caps.
Let’s now examine the different options.
Traditional Option
These are the most common type that most homeowners have in their yards. This is actually the closest to the conventional in-ground pool in terms of permanence. They can be made with any of the materials we have mentioned.
The advantage of this option is that it is quick to install and can be relocated to another property. They usually come with a warranty that’s more substantial and extra tools for maintenance. Best of all, this option can also last as long as 20 years. So if you want a permanent fixture that’s more affordable, then consider this option.
The disadvantage of this option is that you would still need permits and adhere to all the government regulations just as if you want to dig the conventional hole in the ground. Additionally, you would need to do some groundwork such as levelling the ground and maybe clearing trees that may be in the way.
You may want to check out this site to have an idea of what these government regulations entail: https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/aquatics-professionals/regulation-inspection.html
Inflatable Option
This option just as its name shows is the type that you inflate when you need to use it and deflate once you are done with it. This is a great option for renters with kids that need a body of water to frolic in or learn to swim.
The advantages of this type include the following:-
- Easy of set up and dismantling
- No need for any groundwork
- Cheapest of all the options
- Easy to buy
The disadvantages include the following:-
- It’s not as strong as other options
- The water cannot be kept clean for long because it doesn’t come with adequate tools for maintenance.
Semi or Fully Buried Option
This is also like the above ground option because you do not need to dig any hole in the ground. The difference however is that this type usually has wall panels that are strong enough to withstand the impact of the ground forces that push in on it.
You can have this type of pool in different sizes and designs.
The advantages include the following:-
- Looks and feels like the in ground option but with a faster installation time
- Permanence
- Significant warranty
The disadvantages include the following:-
- Difficult to move for relocation
- Costlier to install
- Cannot be installed without professional help
Steel Frame Option
These ones come with a steel frame that includes a top rail, upright pool bracing and a type of ladder. To assemble this type, you just snap the pins together to give it the structure for the liner and then fill with water.
The advantages include:-
- Easy DIY installation that is fast
- Pocket friendly
- Requires little groundwork
- Easy to relocate
- Different age appropriate sizes
The disadvantages include:-
- Doesn’t come with adequate equipment for cleaning and maintenance
- No adequate extra features
- Cannot be left out year round
Why You May Need To Choose A Round Above Ground Pool
The above options that we have discussed come in a variety of shapes and all these shapes have their pros and cons. We would briefly discuss the pros and cons of a round above ground pool and why you may need to choose it.
The following are the advantages of this option:-
- It is cost effective – This is not only about the initial cost but both installation and maintenance. The replacement parts are also easier to get and more affordable too.
- Ease of Installation – It is easier to install round above ground pools without professional help. This is because it doesn’t require a complicated support structure like other shapes.
The above are huge benefits that come with choosing this contraption in round shape. That being said however, the greatest drawback of this shape is that you need ample space in your yard. If therefore you are space constrained, you can’t have this option.
Conclusion
This brief discussion on the different types of above ground pools was just to whet your appetite and give you the basics. You might need to do more research if you decide on any of the options discussed.
