Swimming pools of all shapes and sizes are a staple in the summer months. With open-air, refreshing waters, and a cooling breeze, they’re the perfect place to spend time outside with your friends, family, or even by yourself.
These home additions are the perfect solutions for many issues you may have as a family. You may want to spend more time together, find a way to get cool, unwind, and be more active. This is where a backyard pool will solve them all since you’ll be able to exercise, swim, and bond with everyone else.
What are Above Ground Pools?
Above ground pools are an inexpensive and enjoyable way to enjoy the outdoors year-round. These are found in most backyards, but they can also be heated to make them usable throughout most of the year. If you want a cost-effective and handy alternative, then go with them. Many manufacturers may offer a deep pool above ground so you can relax and swim leisurely without spending a lot. They are ideal for beating the summer heat and ensuring that you’re comfortable as much as possible.
Types Available Out There
There are many different types of above ground pools. The first type is the shallow one that’s only 48 inches deep on average. They are usually made with vinyl or fiberglass, and they can be built in an area as small as 2,500 square feet. Covers can be purchased for these kits to help keep the water clean and prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
The second type is a medium-sized pool that’s 52-inches deep on average. The kits can comfortably accommodate up to 10 to 15 swimmers and are typically made with vinyl. The third type is an above ground pool that’s 54-inches deep on average. These pools have a large capacity, and they’re usually made with concrete or fiberglass shells that have been coated with acrylic resin coating (the white coating).
Inflatables are the ones you can find in big box stores, and they are an excellent option for smaller kids. They have a ring that you can inflate them, and you’ll expect them to inflate as they are filled with water. They are easy to tear down, quicker to install, and are accessible. There’s no prep work involved, unlike the in-ground pool varieties. See more about the in-ground types on this website.
When you’re considering the depth, you might want to go to a height of about four feet deep if most of the swimmers are adults. There can be a shallow and a deep end like any other type but aim for a more gradual slope. The standard liners may not be able to stretch more than a foot deeper in the middle, but the expandable ones may be able to do the job right.
Traditional Above Ground Pools
These are the ones you can generally find in specialty shops or online platforms. They are available in any size and age range. The materials may consist of metal posts, resin, aluminum walls, steel, and a top ledge that will serve as extra support. There are also filter systems, pumps, and vinyl liners that vary from 12 to 33 ft. The depth is also between 48 inches to 54 inches.
These are the types you can easily install in one day, and there’s a chance to relocate it to another area as long as you know how to do it. The warranty may cover various components, and they can last up to two decades as long as they are properly maintained. The kit may start at a different price range, but you can save more if you install it yourself.
However, with the traditional ones, it might require some preparations and work like trimming the grasses and cleaning the yard. This is where you might want to watch videos or see tutorials about what to do to make things easier.
Key Safety Tips
One of the most important safety precautions to take when you have an above ground pool is installing fencing. Lock the gate or use safety-type ladders to make it more secure. This will prevent the kids from exploring around the perimeter. More about the safety tips in this link: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/water-safety-pools.html.
If this is located at the deck, add some alarms, and most importantly, teach your babies to swim while they are young. Also, make sure that this is not accessible for your pets to prevent fatal accidents.
Cleaning and Maintenance
To keep your above ground pool clean and well maintained, it is essential to remember the following:
- The pool should be cleaned at least twice a week
- Scoop the leaves, dirt, and debris that were left behind
- Use specialized solutions and chlorine to sanitize the water
- Always use a garden hose to scrub the edges
- Run the pumps regularly
- In between cleaning sessions, add chlorine and shock your pool.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
