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Best 5 Above Ground Swimming Pool Reviews
Having a swimming pool is just the perfect way to epitomize your leisure. It is the best way by which you can enjoy your outdoor living space during any time of the year. It is such a place where you can cool off, play, exercise and have a relaxing time.
This is one of the best cost effective options if you want to have a swimming pool in your house.
You will get above ground swimming pools that vary in price depending on its size and the material with which it is made up of.
If you want to get the best above ground swimming pool, then you need to consider a lot of factors, starting from the size of your house to the extent you will need its maintenance, its pumps and filtration process, and its price.
You also have to ask your local zoning department whether you can get permission for a swimming pool or not.
The permission is necessary because in areas with water scarcity, the government doesn’t allow swimming pools because it needs a lot of water. The insurance company will help you in getting the proper knowledge of homeowner’s policy.
In this article, we are going to help you in getting a great above ground swimming pool. Here are things you need to consider in details for installing above ground swimming pools.
Selecting The Location
This is the first thing that you have to take care. You have to figure it out where you want to put it. Make sure that any area you select, you must be able to see the pool from anywhere in the house.
This will make it easier for you to observe if small kids or children are getting near the pool. It might cause accidents. The pool must be in such a location where there are no overhanging trees.
Select such a place where chances of debris, dirt, and dust are less. Select a sunny location for a pool. The more sunlight the pool water can get, the better it is. The pool will stay warmer and you will feel good once you enter the pool.
The location of above ground swimming pools must have a source of water and electricity. You will need to set up pumps and filters to clean the pool.
What Are The Materials You Will Need To Consider?
The above ground pools for sale are available in different materials and colors. The most common material used for preparing the above ground pool is a vinyl liner. The vinyl is also supported by aluminum or steel.
Steel is the most durable material for above ground pools and they can last for more than 20 years if you can use it properly. You can also use aluminum for the pool. They are less expensive than steel frames and also the aluminum framework is easy to install. You can also disassemble the aluminum framework pool if you want to relocate them.
Consider the rust factor while buying the above ground pools for sale. At present most of the manufacturers offer rust proof materials, but both the steel and aluminum frames catch surface pits because of oxidation. This is why you can opt for the resin material.
The resin is much better than the metal frames and they have a lot of advantages than the metals. While manufacturing, the companies will be able to mold the resin and contour it for creating the curved seats, rounded tops, and the railings. You will not get such features in the metal frame above ground pools. The best quality of resin is it will not corrode easily and the frame will not conduct heat like metals.
Swimming pool buyers will also get the option of choosing the soft sided vinyl pools which will get inflated during the swimming season. You can deflate it when the weather turns cool and store it during the winter seasons.
The pop up pools are also a good option which comes with inflatable rings at the top. As the pool fills up with water, it will expand to its proper shape and size and you will not need any additional support for it.
There is also another type of above ground pools for sale manufactured in several layers. It comes in reinforced PVC which has a very lightweight framework. It is identical to a permanent above ground pool.
They come in round and oval designs. These are temporary pools and they don’t have the same life span as the metal or the resin frame pools but these are a good alternative. They are very less expensive as well and easy to maintain.
Choosing The Equipment For The Above Ground Swimming Pools
Apart from the above ground pumps, you will also need a filter and a pump which will help you in keeping the water clean. Make sure that the filter and pump quality is durable and long lasting.
They must be easy to operate. If you have bigger pools then it is better to choose bigger pumps because larger pumps clean water faster and do not put too much pressure on the equipment. You will also need to buy an automatic pool cleaner vacuum which will eradicate all the dust, dirt, and debris even from the bottom of the pool.
You have to check out the costs of the equipment, the quality of pool chemicals and also the necessary test kits which will make the water safer for the swimmers. This is how you make the best above ground pool. If you stay in a cold climate, then you can choose to buy a pool heater which will let you swim even in the winter seasons as well.
But the pool heaters consume energy and they are also a bit costly. Depending on the area and size of the pool, you will also need a ladder or stairs to enter and come out of the pool. You can also buy a pool cover for retaining the heat of the above ground swimming pool.
Selecting The Pumps And Filters For Above Ground Swimming Pools
When you are buying the best above ground pool, you have to take care of the water, its filtration, prevent it from dust and debris and any other dirty particles. Now to do this, you will need a good pump and filtration system.
For buying quality pumps and filters, you must take care of the size and capacity of the pool. If you have any doubt, it is better to get a slightly bigger pump than you can think.
At present, there are three types of pumps and filters available, the sand filters, cartridge filters and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters. The best choice of filters will depend on your pool.
The high-end cartridge filter is very much efficient and they are very easy to maintain. You can also opt for the DE filters which offer the cleanest water but they are difficult to maintain and they also need periodic backwashing. The sand filters are very much effective but they also need backwashing and replacement of the sand.
The Type Of Water Used
You have to take care of water and this is why it is essential to treat water with chlorine or salt. The chlorine pools are very common types. You can also opt for the salt water systems but they have drawbacks.
The salt is very corrosive and this is why if your pool has metal components, it will get corroded in a very short period of time. But in case if you still choose the salt water pools for above ground pool installation, then it is better to use the resin.
The resin pools are made of very high-quality plastic and they don’t corrode away easily. You also have to create a salt cell which will create chlorine from salt through electrolysis. But rest assured, the chlorine will be available in a very small amount.
The advantage of the salt filtration system is, they are much better for your hair and skin. The reason is, salt water is very soft and they will not fade away your swimsuit color.
Initially, the system will call a bit more money but it will also save you a lot of expense down the road. You won’t have to add salt as frequently as you would have to add chlorine in the Chlorinated water. Also, the maintenance cost of salt water is lesser than any other waters.
The Materials For Above Ground Pool
At present, on ground pools bring sophisticated engineering and very durable materials. Most of the times, vinyl is laid over the supporting structure made of aluminum, steel, resin, and wood. The resin material will not get easily corroded like aluminum or steel and it does not get hot, corrode, or rust like the other materials.
You can also opt for the injection molded resins for strength and better performance and efficient pool components. If you have a salt system, then you cannot have a steel pool, you will have to buy a pool of resin material. You will get a different variety of wall patterns and liners to design your pool.
How Much Are You Willing To Spend On Above Ground Pool?
How much you want to spend on your swimming pool that is totally up to you. But if you want to know what are the pricing factors and standard price, then here is some information for you. There are two major pricing components for the above ground pools. The first one is swimming pool kit and the second one is installed.
Depending on your choice, the pool kit will cost around $1500 to $4500. The more resin a material has, the less metal it will have and the higher will be its cost. Now, coming to the installation costs, it will be around $1000 to $3000 according to the size of the pool.
You have to keep in mind that the oval pools will cost you a bit more money than the rounded pools. The kits for oval pools are also more expensive too. So accordingly, a standard above ground pool will cost around $5-7K. Here are the five best above ground swimming pools.
Top 10 Best Above Ground Pools Reviews Under $200, $300 and $500
#1. Intex Ultra Frame Rectangular Above Ground Pool Set
This above ground swimming pools for sale is durable and it is engineered in such a way that it can take up a lot of weight. The ultra-frame pool comes with a very strong a durable steel frame which prevents rust.
It has a powder coating which helps in the prevention of rust and retains the beauty of the pool design. The pool design is such that it becomes ready for water in just 60 minutes and it has a water carrying capacity of 8403 gallons, which is 90%.
The package will also come with an installation guide and setup DVD. The package also comes with crystal clear filter pump, debris cover, ground cloth, salt water system, deluxe pool maintenance kit and volleyball set.
Advantage
- The installation is very easy.
- The Intex Ultra frame rectangular above ground pool comes with very tough laminated PC walls making it very durable.
- It has a convenient drain plug connecting a garden hose which helps in draining water from a pool or house area.
- Dual suction outlet fittings which improve water circulation.
- Pumps and filters enhance water hygiene and clarity.
Disadvantage
- A few clients complained that the instruction manual was not easy enough to understand. There are no other cons.
#2. Wilbar ZREPMA Meadows Round Above Ground Pool
This is a very elegantly designed above ground swimming pools for sale and it comes with a very strong steel wall. The steel wall also has galvanized protection. The frame is champagne colored and it will add beauty to any backyard.
There is a resin coating in the pool frame which helps in protecting the steel from getting corroded and thus it enhances the life of the pool. The pool has got water retaining capability and you will not miss out the opportunity for regular exercises by swimming even during winter months.
The pool comes with premium quality stainless steel hardware which prevents rust spots. It also has an oversized corrosion protection system.
Advantage
- The stainless steel framework is sturdy and it lasts for a really long period of time.
- The steel frame comes with additional resin and premium corrosion free foundation system which prevents corrosive soil conditions.
- The parts of this pool are specifically designed for one size and they fit exactly over the components. Thus, the corrosion is locked out.
- The interlocking stabilizer rails fit perfectly over the liner and also on top of the wall which locks the liner in perfect position.
Disadvantage
- Some of the customers complained about the material quality which could have been better.
#3. Splash Pools Slim Style Above Ground Swimming Pool
This is the third one on our list of top 5 above ground swimming pools for sale. It is a non-buttress oval pool which comes in a very strong and 3-ply reinforced vinyl material. The steel construction offers an additional layer of protection. You will find the installation booklet and the DVD within the package.
The package doesn’t come with all the accessories. The price of this above ground pool is very much affordable and you can rest assured about the quality. The installation is very easy. The wall has got multi-layer protection. The superior steel frame is a very corrosion resistant material.
Advantage
- The pool comes with a PVC and polyester 3-ply side walls steel frame assembly.
- It has got the stainless steel hardware.
- All weather protection.
- The pool liner has reinforced rope to keep the legs in position.
- Affordable in price.
- Installation is easier than any other above ground pools.
CONS
- A major con is it doesn’t come with the pool pump or ladder. So you have to buy it separately. But since the price of this pool is very much affordable and offers brilliant corrosion resistant quality, it won’t be a budget problem to buy pool pumps and ladders separately.
#4. Cornelius Pools Phoenix Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool
This is one of the best DIY oval above ground pools you will come across. It has got the complete pool kit and accessories. The pool is 52 inches deep and the materials are durable steel which offers a long lasting impact on the pool.
The steel layer comes with double protection for corrosion. The design of this pool is such that it fits perfectly and you can rest assured that your backward will look beautiful. The accessories perfectly fit on the pool making it corrosion resistant. The steel construction comes with excellent durability.
The special feature of this swimming pool is the walls have rust resistant galvanized walls ensuring that the above ground pools last for a longer period of time.
Pros
- Rust resistant anti corrosive steel walls.
- Double layered steel walls for protection.
- Comes with all the accessories and installation kits.
- The installation is very easy and the pool frame is very much affordable.
- The steel is galvanized to enhance longevity of the pool walls.
- The accessories fit perfectly and this is why the pool is corrosion resistant.
DISADVANTAGES
- Few customers complained about having too many corner cuts and the pool liner being extremely thin.
#5. Bestway 15ft Steel Pro Above Ground Pool Frame
This is the last one on our list of top 5 oval above ground pools. This is a great family swimming pool that is designed in such a steel body framework which will prevent your pool from corrosion. The pool is 15ft in length and it is made with rust resistant steel frames. They are locked with T and C connectors and clips for preventing any rust and injury.
The brand not only offers the best quality products but they also offer remarkable after sales services. The setup feature is very easy with a water capacity of 4231 gallons and it comes with the 3-Ply band offering additional support. You will get the flow control drain valve for easy draining.
Advantage
- Best quality material.
- Galvanized steel with multiple layer protection from rust and corrosion.
- Affordable in price.
- Easy to install.
- 3-ply band offers additional support.
- It also comes with flow control drain valve for easy draining.
Disadvantage
- It doesn’t come with all the necessary accessories like pool pump.
A Comparison Between Inground Vs. Above Ground Pools
1. Variety of shape and size
The in-ground pool comes with a lot of variety when it is about the shape, size and a lot more added features than the above ground pools. The in-ground pools come in a long lap shaped/rectangular/round shaped to relax and play with friends.
You will get almost any shape in the in-ground pools. There are also no limitations on the square foot/area/boundaries of the inground pools.
On the other hand, the above ground pools are limited in shape, size, and depth because they come in a kit and it is delivered to your home.
The above ground pools have a limitation in length, size and depth. They are mostly 12-33 feet in diameter, 48 to 52 inches deep and they are round or oval in shape.
2. Materials and designs
The in-ground pools are made up of a hard surface like the concrete which is mostly gunite; fiberglass or they might have a vinyl liner. You can color the plaster/gunite surface and lay the ceramic tile around the top edge of the pool which will bring you a very attractive look.
There are vinyl liners in the in-ground pools and those liners offer a lesser choice of shape and size, but they offer a larger variety of designs and colors. You can also choose the fiberglass in-ground pools. Overall, you see, there are so many options while selecting the in-ground pools.
On the other hand, the above ground pools don’t offer you with so many options. The best compliment you will get for an above ground pool is, it looks like a complete in-ground pool.
3. Installation
Now, coming to the installation, the above ground pool installation is extremely easy. It is just like a DIY project. But you can also take professional help so that anything doesn’t get damaged and the warranty stays intact.
While you are buying the above ground pools, a lot of manufacturers will offer you with a pool kit if it is not purchased from them, so you have to check carefully before you buy the kit online. Above ground, pools can be installed in 1-2 days with the help of professionals. It only depends on the time needed to clear and level the space where the pool will be placed.
But things are not so easy for the inground pools. If you want to install the in ground pools, you have to do a lot of hard work and the installation will take at least 1 week. You have to dig the space for the pool. It will take different time to install in-ground pools of different materials.
Fiberglass and vinyl liner pool installation will be finished in one week, gunite pools will take more time because they have more complicated installation procedures. So overall, above ground pool installation is a lot easier than the in-ground pools.
Last Words
So, we have come to the end of our article. If you are going to make a big decision of buying above ground pools, then you need to make sure that you are considering all the factors mentioned in this article before buying it. Everyone’s necessities are different and this is why don’t rely on someone else’s choice when you are going to buy a pool. The ground pool price will vary depending on the shape, size, material, and design of the above ground pools. There is also the expenditure of installation and accessories you have to consider.
Some of the swimming pools will come at a bit cheaper price but that should not be the only reason for you to buy the pool. Check out the features, the quality, the warranty and also the after sale services of the brand. The primary objective of this article is to make aware about the factors for buying above ground pools. You don’t have to opt for only five of these above mentioned above ground swimming pools if they don’t meet your requirements. We suggested these 5 depending on their longevity, features, material, build, rust and corrosion resistant and warranty.
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