Above ground, pools may seem more oriented towards child’s play, but they do have major advantages over in-ground pools. They’re more affordable and far easier to install and maintain. They’re also much faster to complete. Because they’re elevated from the floor and rarely exceed depths of 4 feet, they’re safer for kids and pets.
Installing an above ground pool can seem like a simple DIY task, especially if you’ve watched some YouTube videos and have a few hours on your hands. The process itself is pretty straightforward. Clear the ground to remove any stones, grass, or debris that might pierce your pool lining. Ideally, you should clear 6 feet around the pool area.
Make sure the ground is completely level and install a raised platform. This is important because water is heavy. Your filled pool could weigh more than a tonne, and this will press down the ground and possibly cause the ground beneath the pool to collapse. Laying a concrete platform will prevent this.
Check the drainage in the area and make any necessary adjustments, since the pool will likely cause water to log the area. Levelling and drainage require professional help, even if you try the other steps on your own. Now, lay two inches of sand on the ground, and top it with gorilla pads for extra protection.
Next, lay your pool blocks and level them out. Install the walls and floors of your pool, then create the 6 to the 8-inch sand cove, offering further protection for the pool lining. The cove should lie at a 45-degree angle all around the inner edge of the pool. Alternatively, you could buy a ready-made cove from any pool supplies store.
Hang the liner flush against the pool floor, making sure there are no holes or air bubbles. Reduce any air pockets with a vacuum. Push the lining against the sides of the pool to eliminate wrinkling. Fill your pool, and install your lights, filters and other equipment. Of course, this does seem like a lot of work, so it may be worth the effort to just call in a professional pool installer.
Pool finishing options include PVC coping, vinyl lining, metal frames, resin coating, and powder coating. Above ground, pools can be installed with or without braces. They often including a plastic safety ladder, a pool cover to keep out leaves, and a vacuum kit for pool maintenance. The pool liner influences the colour of the pool, so you can get a vinyl liner in sky blue or midnight blue, though different manufacturers offer different colour options.
Some pool manufacturers offer a finish that includes steps, while others have an elaborately decorated exterior, complete with artwork and custom lighting. The pool steps are wide enough to offer seating, and are a useful feature for toddlers and beginners.
Heavy duty galvanised steel is also a good choice for above ground pool exteriors. The steel is strong enough to support the weight of the water and is resistant to salt, rust, and chlorine. It has a nice glossy sheen that glints in the sun.
Pool frames are made using powder coated metal, and the pool walls are often made with colourbond steel in neutral shades like sandstone. Above ground, pools are convenient and easily accessible. They are available in round and oval shapes and can be filled with fresh water or salt water, depending on the pool model.
Despite their compact size, above ground pools aren’t just for kids. If you’re a fitness enthusiast and you’re low on yard space, you can install a lap pool that’s up to 3 metres wide and has a deep end included. This kind of pool has resin ribbing for additional support. The resin coping also adds a touch of style.
While it’s possible to install your pool on your own, it’s unnecessarily labour intensive and you can’t guarantee safety standards. Take that extra step and hire a professional to make sure you have a solid, attractive, above ground pool.