Above-Ground Swimming Pool: Evaluate your options

Your priority at this point in your evaluation is to find the available above-ground swimming pools in the market that best meet your needs. You can save a lot of time during this activity by quickly eliminating any options that are unsuitable because they don't meet your key requirements. For example, if you have a limited budget for this purchase then you can ignore any swimming pools that clearly exceed your price limit.

Above-ground pools are relatively easy to install, especially in yards where it may be impossible to maneuver the large earth moving equipment required to excavate for an in-ground swimming pool. You and a few hardworking friends can install an above-ground swimming pool in a couple of days using basic household tools.

Tip: Check with your state and local zoning commissions and obtain any required permits before you purchase an above-ground swimming pool. There may be codes restricting the allowable size of pools and how close your pool can be to your property line, as well as ordinances for fencing and security measures. These matters are ultimately your responsibility, not the pool seller's.

Above-ground swimming pools work well in smaller yards and can even be moved from one home to another. An above-ground swimming pool can be drained and dismantled if your needs change or if you sell your home to someone who does not want a pool, and all signs of its existence can easily be removed without a trace.

While an above-ground swimming pool offers fun entertainment for your family, it may negatively affect the value of your property. On average, an above-ground swimming pool subtracts 1.9% from the selling price of a home. Above-ground pools aren't considered permanent structures so they aren't typically included in an appraisal of your property, which may affect your ability to sell or refinance your home. On the positive side, you can enjoy on-site aquatic adventures without additional property taxes.

Tip: Count all the costs before you invest in an above-ground swimming pool for your home. The pool seller can inform you about costs associated with the pool's structure, installation, supplies, maintenance and repairs. Additionally, call your agent about homeowner's insurance, inquire at your utility office about water and electricity expenses and ask a local realtor how home values are affected in your area.

The site you choose for your above-ground swimming pool must be level so that undue stress is not placed on any of its joints. The site must also be free of any underground obstructions such as wells or utilities.

Tip: Rent an optical level called a transit to evaluate the slope in your yard. You can also use the transit to ensure that your surface preparations are perfectly level during installation. This extra expense will be worth it, because your pool's warranty could be voided if the pool is not level. If you don't have a transit, a carpenter's level on a long, straight board will work.

Above-ground swimming pools come in a variety of sizes but usually only two shapes: round or oval. An oval above-ground swimming pool may require buttresses on the sides, which are special braces which add support to the long pool walls. Buttress-free designs are available for a slightly higher price, but they can save valuable yard space or allow you to install a larger pool in the same amount of space. Above-ground swimming pool depths average around four feet (1.2 meters), although a deep end of up to seven feet (2.1 meters) is available from some manufacturers.

Tip: Some above-ground swimming pools are designed so that they can be placed in the ground (check with the manufacturer). This gives you the streamlined and sleek appearance of a costly in-ground pool that blends with your landscaping, with the affordability of an above-ground swimming pool that may be better suited to your budget, property and climate.

Above-ground swimming pools supports and walls are made of steel, resin or aluminum. Galvanized steel pools were introduced in 1946 by the Doughboy company and are still popular today. Some pools have strong, corrosion resistant resin top rails and caps, while others have an aluminum framework that can be installed partially underground. A thick and resilient vinyl liner is then stretched over the walls.

Installation of an above-ground swimming pool can be a project for a do-it-yourselfer. The site must be marked and cleared of all sod; this can be done with a shovel or you can rent a sod cutter. The prepared bottom surface must be within one inch of level in all areas. Bottom plates are laid around the pool's perimeter and connected with stabilizer rails; then the bottom is covered with a thin layer of level sand. The pool wall is inserted into the stabilizer rails and held in place with upright supports. A cove made of sand, dirt or manufactured material is built between the pool floor and the wall; the cove supports the liner and protects the metal components from corrosion.

Tip: Take the extra time to level and smooth the pool floor and the cove. Any uneven areas, bumps, ridges or footprints will make it difficult to clean the pool, will be uncomfortable to swimmers and may even compromise the structural integrity of your pool.

Once the pool wall is erected on the cleared site, you are ready to install and smooth the vinyl liner. While thick and resilient liners are made using the same technology as bullet-proof vests, they are not impervious to damage. Small tears and punctures may occur, but they can be repaired. If the liner becomes damaged after the pool is filled, some liners can be repaired underwater without having to drain the pool. Nevertheless, you should take care not to damage the liner because leaks can weaken the overall structure through rust and corrosion.

Tip: Make sure you're comparing apples to apples when shopping for pool liners. Some manufacturers grade their liners' thickness using “gauge,” “weight” or “mils” (millimeters), but these are not interchangeable or equal terms.

Now you're ready to begin filling the pool with water, smoothing any wrinkles on the floor as the water slowly rises. When the pool is halfway full and the liner has stretched, it is time to install the skimmer and filter. The skimmer is a pump that circulates the pool water and strains large debris from the pool, and the filter removes finer suspended particles. Chemicals are then added to clean the water and balance its chemical properties. The ladder and any decking are installed last; then you're ready to enjoy a dip in your new above-ground swimming pool!

Tip: Choose landscaping materials around your new pool carefully. Decorative rocks may pierce the pool wall, while wood chips retain moisture that corrodes metal parts. Chose a material that allows for drainage.

Once the pool is installed, it's important to regularly monitor and maintain your pool. Proper cleaning and maintenance of your pool will prevent corrosion and build up on the pool surface and components and prevent illness and irritation to swimmers as they enjoy swimming in sparkling clear and clean water. The water must be tested for sanitizers three times per week or more, and hypochlorous acid (chlorine) added to kill bacteria and algae as necessary. Additionally, pH balance should be measured biweekly, calcium hardness bimonthly and alkalinity monthly. Bottom and surface cleaning using plain old elbow grease as well as specially-made vacuums and suction cleaners is also essential.

Tip: Buy tools made for in-ground swimming pools, as they tend to be stronger and last longer.

Solar, gas or electric water heaters can be added to your above-ground swimming pool for a more comfortable swimming experience during more months of the year, especially in colder climates. You may also choose to add a pool cover to keep out debris, hold in heat and protect your pool in winter. A pool cover can maximize the effectiveness of your heater.

An above-ground swimming pool must be properly winterized. The skimmer must be plugged and the filter cleaned, and winterizing chemicals added to the water. An air pillow called an ice compensator float is inflated and centered in the pool to absorb the expansion of the water if it freezes, which prevents the expanding water from cracking the pool wall. Finally, the pool cover is tightened over the pool. The seams, uprights and support system could be seriously damaged if frozen pool water is disturbed or moved.

Safety is always a major concern around all swimming pools. Diving is never recommended in the inadequate depth of an above-ground swimming pool, and slides are not recommended. Children under age five are at the biggest risk of drowning or near-drowning accidents, and they must be watched closely at all times by a responsible adult. Teach children how to swim, and teach adults resuscitation methods. While fencing to keep people out and alarms to tell you if someone gets in your pool can add a layer of safety, they are no substitute for constant and careful supervision.

Tip: All above-ground swimming pools come with warning labels that must be attached to the interior and exterior of the pool, and the warranty may be voided if these labels are not in place. Most manufacturers will replace lost or damaged warning labels free of charge.

As you evaluate your property, your budget and your needs to determine if an above-ground swimming pool is right for you, don't forget to calculate the ongoing cost in time and money for pool maintenance. You may decide that the fun payoff is well worth the price!

When you were considering your requirements in an above-ground swimming pool it's likely that you singled out certain factors such as shape, size, construction and cost as being of major significance. As with so many other products, the more features offered, the higher the price. Buyz123 has created a checklist containing examples of major features; you can work from this checklist when evaluating how well various above-ground swimming pools meet your personal needs:

Features Checklist

Benefits of an above-ground swimming pool

Affordable backyard fun
Well suited for cold climates
Fast and easy installation
Portable and temporary
Easily accommodated in small yards
Some can be partially or totally submerged in the ground for an in-ground appearance

Disadvantages of an above-ground swimming pool

May detract nearly 2% from your property value
May affect your ability to resell your home unless it's removed
Increased utility and insurance expenses
Safety concerns
Time and expense of ongoing maintenance

Dimensions

Depths range from 4 feet (1.2 meters) to 7 feet (2.1 meters)
Some pools are manufactured to accommodate a deep end up to seven feet deep
The depths of above-ground swimming pools do not allow for diving; they are for swimming only
Round pools range from 12 feet to 30 feet in diameter (3.7 to 9.1 meters)
Oval pools range from 12 feet wide x 20 feet long (3.7 x 6.1 meters) to 21 feet wide x 41 feet long (6.4 x 12.5 meters)
Buttresses on oval pools can extend an additional 3 feet (91cm) on each side
Specialty Olympic-sized above-ground swimming pool pools are 82 feet wide x 164 feet long x 6 feet deep and weigh over 8,000 pounds (25 meters wide x 50 meters long x 1.8 meters deep, weigh 3629kg)

Construction materials

Steel
Resin
Aluminum
Vinyl

Steps or Ladder

Fiberglass
Stainless steel

Filtration systems

Sand filters: economical, low maintenance, lowest efficiency
Cartridge filters: easy and infrequent cleaning, high efficiency, high cost to replace
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) filter: water is cleaned faster and recovers quickly, most efficient, frequent maintenance, complicated system

Chemical tests

Chlorine: tested daily for results in the 1.0 to 3.0 ppm range
pH: tested biweekly for results in the range of 7.2 to 7.6
Calcium hardness: tested bimonthly for results in the 175 to 225 ppm range
Alkalinity: tested monthly for results in the 125 to150 ppm (parts per million) range

Calculating water capacity (in gallons) to determine chemical dosages

Round pool: Diameter x Diameter x Average Depth x 5.9
Oval pool: Length x Width x Average Depth x 5.9

Weight and volume measurement of water

One gallon of water weighs 8.3 pounds (3.8kg)
One cubic foot of water contains 7.5 gallons (28.4 liters)
One cubic foot of water weighs 62.4 pounds (28.3kg)

Heaters

Gas fired units use natural gas or propane gas to heat the water as it circulates through the unit through a pump
Electric heat pump pulls heat from ambient air and transfers it to the water via a heat exchanger
Solar heater absorbs sunlight through panels, generally located on the roof of the home, through which the water is pumped and heated before being pumped back to the pool

Covers

Made of reinforced vinyl that stretches across the pool
Keeps dirt and debris out of the pool
Keeps water, chemicals and heat in the pool
Never let a child or pet walk on a pool cover; serious injury or death could result

Cleaning supplies

Suction
Pressure
Skimmer
Telescoping pole
Vacuum hosing
Chlorine, shock, algaecide
Leaf vacuum

Warranty coverage

Warranty coverage ranges from 20, 30, 50 and even 60 years
Check with the manufacturer of your pool for specifics
Various components of the pool may have different warranty coverage
More expensive pools tend to have longer warranties

Safety considerations

Constant adult supervision is essential
Affix all warning labels and discuss the warnings with all swimmers
Teach children how to swim, how to hold on to the side of the pool, how to move to a ladder and how to get out of the pool
Train adults in lifesaving and resuscitation methods
Make sure fences and gates are secure
Use motion alarms to detect unexpected activity in the pool water

Miscellaneous options

Fountain or waterfall
Liquid solar blanket
Equipment housing
Pool toys
Portholes
Decking or landscaping
Chemical testing kit
Bug screening

There are a lot of features listed here, and some of them may not be relevant to your particular requirements. So, work your way through the list and assess how each of these features impact on your needs. You can then create a personalized checklist of the features you really require.

Once you have finished evaluating the pools available for sale in the light of your personal needs and arrived at a short-list of 'possibles' you are ready to progress to the next stage. This involves comparing the swimming pools one-on-one in order to find those that really stand out.

Evaluate how well an Above-Ground Swimming Pool compares with competing an Above-Ground Swimming Pools

Comparing the items on your interim short-list, one to another, is an important part of the purchasing process - we all want to buy the best product we possibly can. So once you have established a short-list of above-ground swimming pools that meet your needs it is time to evaluate how well they compare in fine detail. This way you can assemble a select list that stand out from the crowd.

Questions to ask yourself:

Which above-ground swimming pool on my short-list can fit in my yard?
Which of these has the shape and style I like?
Which has the best warranty?
Which is the easiest to clean and maintain?
Which seems of the highest quality?
Which includes the pump or other extras in the price?
Which above-ground swimming pool do I like the best?

By answering these simple questions, you are actually eliminating above-ground swimming pools that aren't absolutely right for you. This is an excellent time - if you haven't done so already - to evaluate how well your short-listed products measure up in the following areas: Physical Quality, Warranty Conditions and Accessories & Extras.

Physical Quality

Regardless of the method you use when purchasing the above-ground swimming pool, you need to find an opportunity to examine the product to evaluate how well it is made, and to check that it is truly suitable for you and your purpose. This is the time to examine the quality of the materials, and how well the item is put together. Check the assembly - are any welds solid, or do nuts and bots hold the item together snugly? It's also important to examine the item from the perspective of ease of use. Are the controls on the filtration system easy to use? How easily are components removed for cleaning and maintenance? Make sure the pool fits your space physically, and that it is manageable - some above-ground swimming pools look great on paper, but unexpected problems will show up when you finally get your hands on them.

Physical Inspection Checklist:

Materials - quality, appearance
Assembly - all parts held together securely, good quality fittings
Solidly constructed - stable, no loose components
Proper fit of removable parts - easy to remove and replace, fit snugly
Controls - visible, easy to use, accessible, clearly labeled
Size - appropriate for surroundings and purpose
Appearance - well finished, appropriate color, neat fittings etc
Easy to use and maintain

Warranty Conditions

Similar products may be available with significantly different terms and conditions, and you want to get the best deal you can. Parts and labor are often covered under separate warranties, for different time periods; sometimes there can be a significant difference in the warranty offered with one model compared to that offered with the next model up. It is particularly important to investigate any conditions that might void a warranty, such as if you use different chemicals to those recommended.

Warranty Checklist:

Duration - check the specifics
Parts, Labor, Mechanical, Electrical
Exactly what is covered
Exactly what is excluded
Conditions or actions that may void the warranty

Accessories, Extras and Consumables

When evaluating similar products, it is a good idea to include accessories in your assessment. You need to be clear about exactly what accessories are really necessary to run the pool to its full capacity, and whether these can be included with the purchase. What else is required - do you need a safety fence, for instance? It's also important to consider consumables, such as chemicals - some products have higher associated costs than others.

Accessories Checklist:

Accessories - included or extra cost?
Upgrades - will the product need upgrades, what are the costs?
Compatibility issues - will it work with your existing products?
Consumables - how often and how much?
Contracts or Service Plans - conditions, penalties, costs
What else will you need to get the most out of your swimming pool?

Once you've worked through the Evaluation step you will have a final short-list of above-ground swimming pools that meet your needs and stand out from competing products on the market. It's time then to move on to the third and final step: Purchase.

Video Links

Buyz123.com Research Links:

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