Above Ground Pools Vs Inground Pools

Today Affordable Pools is going to look at that age-old debate – which is better an above ground swimming pool or an inground swimming pool? There are 4 things to consider when weighing up between an above ground swimming pool or an inground swimming pool – they are:

    • 1. COST – in most cases your inground pool will be the most expensive choice, whether it is a vinyl pool or concrete or fibreglass. On top of the cost of the pool itself you need to consider all the extras – electrical hook-up for lights, landscaping around the pool, decking or concreting around the pool, extra costs including a cover, pool heating, filters etc. When buying an above ground pool there are 3 main costs involved – the price of the pool – or kit itself, the price of installation. And the price of any pool surroundings you may want to add – such as decking. Your above ground pool is the cheaper option and in some cases the pool is cheaper than the decking or landscaping you choose to put around it.

Also Read This: Swimming pool Vs a lap pool

    • 2. SIZE – As strange as you may think this sounds an above ground pool can be every bit as large – if not larger than an inground pool! However, with an above ground pool you are generally limited to one uniform depth. With an inground pool you get the choice of depths from shallow to deep which is perfect for anyone with a young family, children can move from depth to depth as they grow older and more confident.
    • 3. MAINTENANCE – when you compare the two styles of pool, there really isn’t a LOT of difference when it comes to maintenance. Although if you don’t have a deck around your above ground pool it can make it a lot harder to get around the pool to vacuum it properly. Both styles of pool need filters and water still must be tested and treated, surface water has to be skimmed of leaves and other debris. You need to care for both styles of pool in a similar way.
    • 4. LIFE SPAN – the average above ground pool, when cared for properly will last anywhere from 7 to 15 years before the structure of the pool gives out completely. Pool liners have a shorter life span – generally 5 to 9 years before you will need to replace them. When it comes to inground pools how long they last is often down to the type of pool. For example, a fibreglass pool should last well over 20 years, while a vinyl pool has a structure that lasts well, the liner will need to be replaced every 6 to 11 years on average. Concrete pools should last a long time, but even they need to be resurfaced every 9 to 13 years and that can become quite expensive.

 

Swimming pool Vs a lap pool

Today Affordable Pools will compare the two styles of common backyard pools, the above ground *family* swimming pool and the lap pool. What is the difference?

Above ground swimming pools are defined by their size and their purpose. They are generally round in shape and sit on top of the ground. Above ground pools inject some FUN into your yard, they are used for recreation and are a great way to spend time with your family.

Also Read This: Choosing the colour of your pool

  • Benefits include keeping your children active, social – inviting their friends around and safe supervised fun. These pools are also great for entertaining – pool parties, for a little exercise, for swimming, splashing around, playing games, cooling off or enjoying a relaxing dip.
  • Features of this style include – they are not *permanent* and can actually be moved if you find the location is no longer convenient. If you move to a new house you can take the pool with you. Above ground pools are not *invasive* so if you are renting and have the landlord’s approval, you can have one and when you move minimal damage is done to the backyard. They are cheaper than having an in-ground pool installed.
  • This is a classic style of pool, that a lot of aussie kids – now with families of their own, will remember splashing around in when they were younger. These pools are also a lot easier to care for these day, better filters, choices of salt water or chlorine, heaters and so much more.

Swimming pool Vs a lap pool

Lap pools are typically inground pools and they are longer and thinner than above ground family swimming pools. A lap pool can measure 10 X 2.5 metres.

  • The benefits of lap pools include – they are a great way to keep fit. These types of pools often take up a smaller area of your yard and the area where you swim laps is generally free from ladders and steps. The sides of a lap pool are straight and not angled which allows the swimmer to move their arms around freely when swimming into the sides.
  • Features of lap pools include – extra underwater lighting – great for early morning or evening swims, heating so you can train all year round and water jets to help with resistance training.
  • Some of the trends in lap pools include – extending the lap pool underneath bridge walkways or even into the home. Adding garden walls and rock features to remove the *starkness* – breaking up the length of the pool, making it a feature of the back yard. Buyers can often combine a lap pool with an outdoor spa, or even an above ground swimming pool to cater for all members of the family.

Pools are great for exercise and fun, it just depends which pool is right for you.