Finally, it’s summer! Everyone’s either heading to the beach or the community pool. But for most people with a hectic lifestyle, there’s little room to escape and savor the Caribbean splendor.
Wishing you had a pool this summer? Above-ground pools are the Holy Grail when you want to get a cold swim in the scorching sun, and the beach is miles away. So should you get an above-ground pool?
Advantages of Above-ground Pools
1. Portability
What’s great about these pools is their portability. You can move it to a different location if you don’t like its current position. The installation process is smooth, and within no time you can dismantle and set it up wherever you want. This is unlike in-ground pools which are permanent structures you can’t uninstall when you don’t like its location or need extra space.
2. Cost effective
An above-ground pool is cheaper to install compared to an in-ground pool. It will cost you around $1000 to $12000 depending on the deluxe features you want to be installed.
But a regular above-ground pool kit costs $1500 to $5000 which is relatively inexpensive than an in-ground pool that will set you back by $7000 to $45000 or more.
3. Health benefits
Pool baths present a myriad of health benefits. Aqua therapy with or without trainers is beneficial to people suffering from back pains, joint problems, and mobility difficulties.
Individuals with paralysis or arthritis can benefit from shallow pool exercises to strengthen their muscles.
A pool in your backyard is all you need to upgrade your health and fitness.
4. Privacy
Your backyard pool gives you a heightened sense of privacy. You can relax in the water for as long as you want. If you’re going to swim naked or wear any swimwear, you’re spoilt for choice. No one will criticize you. Public swimming pools are restrictive to how long you can last in the pool and the type of swimwear that is allowed.
Above-ground pools are an excellent alternative to community pools this summer.
5. Easy to install
You can have your backyard pool set up in no time. You can opt to DIY though professional installation is recommended since the technician will provide you with a warranty.
An in-ground pool requires digging, leveling, cementing, tiling and installation of pipes which is time-consuming and tedious. You also pay a hefty buck for all the necessary materials needed and contractors’ labor.
Above-ground pools, on the other hand, are cheaper and faster to install. Within two days you can get one!
6. Easy to maintain
Above-ground pools are easy to maintain compared to in-ground pools. They do not require frequent cleaning, bleaching or filtering. You don’t need to treat the water frequently to avoid allergies and infections since the water is never stagnant.
All you need to do is merely vacuum weekly, skim to remove any debris and filter the water to keep it clean.
Disadvantages of Above-ground Pools
1. They don’t last forever
A well built in-ground pool can last for many decades up to 50 years with proper maintenance. However a typical above-ground pool has a lower lifespan as the sides are exposed to weather elements and are made of less durable materials
With excellent care and good quality, an above ground pool can last you up to 25 years.
2. The options are limited
Above-ground pools are limited in size, shape, and depth since they come in a pre-packaged kit delivered to your home. They are not much customizable with 12 to 33 feet diameter and 48 to 54 inches deep.
With their shallow depth, you can’t install a diving board. Their limited features only allow for oval, rectangle or round shapes so if your heart is set on a unique pool shape, you are out of luck with this one. An in-ground pool presents far more limitless options.
3. Don’t add value to your property
Above-ground pools don’t add value to your property since they are considered temporary installations. Selling a house with a permanent pool can be a nice payday than selling one without a permanent pool.
At the same time above ground pools do not limit your potential buyers since you can easily remove it and tuck it away. It is not necessarily a hindrance to the value of the property.
4. Fencing might be required
You might consider putting up a fence or a barricade around your pool to ensure the safety of your kids or pets. It is advisable not to leave the pool unattended when it is filled with water.
The bad side is some above-ground pool kits do not include fencing, and you might need to fence them separately which adds on the cost of installation.
How long do Above-ground Pools Last?
Average above ground pools will last you 7 to 15 years while good quality ones last up to 25 years with proper maintenance before the structure wears out. The liners last between 5 to 10 years before your next replacement. Even though liner manufactures give a warranty of up to 30 years, this figure is prorated.
Thick fully printed liners will last your pool 5 to 8 years while the thin solid blue liners will last 2 to 5 years.
Factors to consider when choosing an Above-ground pool kit
Most above ground pools do not live up to the hype, and that’s why it’s crucial to evaluate some parameters before settling for your ideal pool
1. Durability
The material strength will determine the longevity of your pool before it wears out. Above ground pools are constructed from aluminium, steel and polymer resin.
High-quality steel coating is sturdy and corrosion resistant. The side walls should be thick enough to hold the gallons of water and the weight of the people. Go for quality reputable brands by intex pools clearance to last you a good mile.
2. Pool shape
Above-ground pools come in 4 key shapes: circle, square, rectangle, oval. When choosing a shape think of the intended purpose.
Go for a rectangular pool if you are a fan of swimming exercises, but if it’s purely for entertainment any shape will do, the only concern is the size of the space you intend to use for installation.
3. Add ons
There are pool packages that do not come with additional accessories such as filter pump, pool ladder, or ground cloth. Weigh out the options if it’s convenient for you to buy a specific kit because you might be getting a cool kit but it’s not a suitable choice, and you’ll have to buy the accessories which will increase your cost.
Bottom line
There’s something about the hot sun and warm air that leaves you craving for a dip in the pool. Switch things up and get yourself an above-ground pool. It’s affordable and convenient.
Whether you want to host an adults pool party, dip yourself in the pool or have kids who love the water, an above-ground pool will do the job.