The Truth About Above Ground Pools February 12, 2010

Over the years, the above ground pool has developed a less than stellar reputation. Seeing a neighbor’s older model pool, neglected and left to rust and corrode in the back yard, has left a bad taste in the mouths of people who would otherwise consider an above ground pool.

What people don’t realize is that above-ground pools just aren’t the same as they used to be. Nowadays, they’re made to last, taking advantage of technological and material advances. And with a little care and maintenance, they can be just as functional and enjoyable as their much more expensive in – ground counterparts.

Have you heard (or had) any of the following above – ground pool myths?

I’m thinking of getting a pool, and an above ground pool fits my budget nicely. But, I’ve seen above ground pool in the past that just looked junky, no matter how new they were. Is this still the case?

Above ground pools have changed enormously over the past few years, with manufacturers making a real effort to make pools more attractive, sturdier, longer lasting, and customizable. Above ground pools started out looking like oversized tin cans – and unfortunately, that’s how people have thought of them ever since.

The materials that manufacturers use now are completely different from materials used in the past, general pool design has improved, and the above – ground pool accessory market gives you a variety of choices. For example, you can now choose from a wide selection of contemporary colors and designs, printed liners and even tile borders.

I’ve heard the above ground pools don’t last that long.

Unlike above ground pools of the past that were made from cheaper materials and had a very stiff metallic look, most modernized above ground pools have been completely remodeled and are now made from a blow molded resin based product. Using a resin product for above-ground pools is something that started in the 1990’s and makes the pools much more durable. Admittedly, not every manufacturer is using resin, but even these manufacturers have taken extra measures to give their pools a longer life and better design. Need to mention the improvement in anti-corrosive coatings used on steel pools which makes rusting a concern of the past.

A friend warned me that the circulation and filtering systems in above-ground pools are awful! Is it true?

Well, times have changed…and with more horsepower and bigger filters, cleaning of above ground pools is now easier and more effective than ever. Because the filters are so much better, above ground pools actually use fewer chemicals. And if you want your above ground pool super duper clean, you can actually opt for an add-on cleaning package like an above ground in line pool chlorinator.

Aren’t above ground pools a pain to clean?

No, not at all! Unlike paddling or kiddie pools, they come with serious filters & pumps with serious horsepower that do serious work. With above ground pools, maintenance and cleaning is a breeze.

How deep can an above ground pool be?

Above ground pools vary in depth, with some above – ground pools seeming ‘deeper’ because they have a higher wall.  Pool wall depth’s come in 48″, 52″, and 54″.  You can also ‘dish’ out your pool floor, utilizing an expandable pool liner to get a depth up to 72″.

But what if I want to heat it?

This has got to be one of our favorite things about above-ground pools. Instead of using a heater, or simply giving up on using the pool in September, you can actually get a solar pool heater and solar cover that efficiently attract the free heat of the sun  keeping your pool warm, happy and inviting. Of course conventional gas and propane heaters are also available.

I want a pool, but I have a very small backyard, and I don’t think a regular round above ground pool will fit.

Congratulations…it’s your lucky day! Not only have manufacturers taken extra steps to make above ground pools longer lasting and better looking; they’ve also taken people just like you into consideration. Above ground pools now come in a plethora of sizes leaving you with a wide variety of options. Even a small backyard can have an above ground pool.

I want an above ground pool, but my kids are obsessed with getting a pool slide – Is this possible?

The really cool thing about above ground pools is all the features that you can add on; cool designs, interesting lighting and yes, even pool slides. Now, that doesn’t mean that all above grounders can have slides or that all slides can work for above  grounders. You have to make sure that you seek out a pool that will work with a slide. But have no fear, there are many to choose from so that you and the kids will be happy.

If I get an above ground pool I want it to look as much like an in-ground as possible, and I want to it to be very safe.

You can have the best of both worlds. Above ground pools can be made safer and more attractive by building a deck around them. The deck makes everything from cleaning to covering more easy, and provides a larger pool area to enjoy. So if you’ve been thinking about getting a deck to surround your pool, you now have a great excuse!

If that wasn’t enough to tickle your fancy, you’ll be glad to know that you can choose pool liners that just look like (if not better than) in-ground pools liners. You can actually get beaded liners that resemble a mosaic borders, overlap liners and more. It’s easy to choose above ground pool accessories and add-ons that will make your pool more attractive, comfortable and enjoyable.

Have you heard something about above ground pools, but want to make sure you’re getting the straight scoop? Be sure to check out our full tips section or e-mail us with your questions at customerservice@pcpools.com, and we’ll be glad to feature them for an upcoming article.