Should you go with an in-ground pool or an above ground pool?

In-ground pools come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. In fact, you can make an in-ground pool nearly any size you want. If you want a pool for recreation like swimming laps or diving, an in-ground pool can provide ample length and depth. In-ground pools provide relaxation and many types of aquatic exercise.

When compared to above ground pools, in-ground pools offer three major advantages:

·         They’re a permanent addition. An expertly installed, well-maintained in-ground pool can last a lifetime. These pools may need occasional repairs, but they’re built to last. They even add value to your house when it comes time to move.

·         Wow Factor. A beautifully designed in-ground pool can become the star feature of your landscape.

·         They provide fitness and recreation. From water slides to diving boards, these pools allow the depth needed for recreation accessories. Plus, in-ground pools offer custom lengths if you want to swim laps for fitness. Of course, in-ground pools offer these perks at a price, so consider your budget. Unlike above ground pools, you can’t decide to pick up and move your pool or change its design—it’s staying put.

Above ground pools usually sit completely above ground, though some models can be partially in the ground. The above ground placement makes the installation process easy. You simply need to prepare your space and get to work by setting up the pool. Because customization options usually come after the pool is set up, in the form of decking and landscaping, you don’t need much time to take you from purchase to splash. This means that above ground pool installation is significantly shorter than that of in-ground pools. Above ground pools offer the flexibility to move them or disassemble them if your landscaping inspiration for your backyard takes a new direction.

Here are some of our favorite perks of above ground pools:

·         They’re quick and easy to assemble. Whether you hire professionals or do it yourself, assembly can go from start to finish in a day! Less labor means less expense, which is one of the reasons why above ground pools are so affordable.

·         They’re flexible, requiring no permanent commitment. If you decide to sell your house or have a new vision for your backyard, just drain and disassemble your pool. It’s as easy to take down as it is to set up.

·         They can squeeze into small spaces. Have a tiny backyard? No problem. Above ground pools come in various sizes, and some of them are perfectly suited for pint-sized landscapes. And size doesn’t determine your pool’s potential: You can achieve large-scale relaxation even in a small pool.

·         They’re less work to maintain. Remember your elementary math class concepts of area and volume? Those apply to the work advantages of above ground pools, which are usually smaller than their in-ground counterparts. Smaller pools mean less area to scrub and vacuum, as well as less water volume to keep clean and chemically balanced. Above ground pools don’t last that long—usually averaging a lifespan of 7 to 10 years with proper maintenance. While this lack of permanence leads to increased landscape flexibility, it also means that you’ll probably have to replace your pool one day.

There are several steps to the physical construction of your pool:

·         Excavation – Digging the hole in the ground

·         Steel Work, Plumbing, and Electrical – Installing the power and water lines

·         Installing Concrete, Fiberglass, or Vinyl Shell

·         Building the decking, finish, custom features, and landscaping

·         Filling the pool, adding chemicals, and mechanical start-up

·         Orientation