Inground Pools vs. Above Ground Pools

Inground Pools vs. Above Ground Pools

Are you picturing a backyard oasis complete with sparkling blue pool, a grill and patio off to the side, and everyone having a great time at your summer barbecue? Sounds like a  lot of fun, and a great way to bring everyone together, doesn’t it? One thing you may be contemplating, though, is whether an above ground or inground pool is right for your family. There are many other considerations besides costs, so let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each.

Practicality

First off, what is the most practical type of pool for your family and property? If you have a small yard, it’s probably not a good idea to take up all your open space with a large inground pool. If you have a big family with a big yard and love to entertain, an inground pool would be a wise choice. If you’re gone a lot for work and can’t perform the regular maintenance that comes with an inground pool, this may not work for you. If you have a budding swimmer or diver in the family, an inground pool would provide much better – and safer – practice than above ground pool. If you have ledge or rock in your yard, blasting to make way for an inground pool may be nearly impossible, in which case an above ground model would have to suffice.

Cost

Cost is a  big one. Inground pools obviously aren’t cheap. In fact, they can cost upwards of $25,000, not to mention the patio, decking, fencing and landscaping that go along with them. An above ground pool does not require excavation, lengthy installation and labor costs, plus you won’t be taxed on it as a property improvement like you would an inground pool.

Appearance

Some people simply don’t like the look of an above ground pool and would prefer the sleeker, more luxurious look of an inground one. Sometimes, above ground pools can bring down your home’s value through their unsightly appearance, especially when not maintained well. If you go with an inground pool, though, you’ll shell out a lot of money on landscaping and renovations to make it look good.

Longevity

The life span of your pool is also a consideration. If you’re looking for decades of life out of your pool to serve your children and then your grandchildren and so on, an inground pool is an unmistakable way to go. If you’re looking for a simple pool to last you until you move in a few years, an above ground pool is an easy option that you could even dismantle and take with you. Most above ground pools can last up to 15 years for the structure itself but the liner will have to be replaced every five or so years. In ground pools can last for decades but you have to keep up with the concrete resurfacing regularly, as well as liners if your pool has one.

Maintenance

Both types of pools require an equal level of upkeep in terms of filtration, chemicals and water quality. No matter which type you have, you must skim out the debris regularly, check the filter, add chemicals and generally ensure the water looks good and healthy. Beyond the deck and ladder, though, this is where the maintenance ends for an above ground pool. Those are fairly simple to upkeep. Add an inground pool and you’ve got to take care of the surrounding landscape, pressure wash the decking, maintain your patio furniture, repair cracks in the concrete and ensure the fencing is in good shape year round.
Take heed of these pros and cons of each type of pool and good luck with your purchase!