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.

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• • 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.