Above Ground Swimming Pools: Inexpensive and Easy to Install!

It is difficult to resist a splash in a swimming pool on a hot sultry day. But if one doesn’t own a pool, then one is constrained by various factors if one wants to enjoy some cool and refreshing time in a swimming pool. Conventionally, pools were owned only by the upper class families and estates as installation of pools used to be a really expensive affair. But with the range of options available today in budget pools, almost anyone with enough space and desire to own a pool can own and install a pool right inside one’s private property.

Swimming pools are of three types: in ground pools, above ground pools and portable pools. Of these three types, above-ground swimming pools are the least expensive and require minimal efforts in installation. These pools look good, feel good and cost less and therefore are increasingly finding their way in many humble abodes.

Above the ground swimming pools come in here shapes: round, rectangular and oval. The sizes available are very many and depend on the company from which you are buying the pool. But, it should be noted that pools as large as normal size pools suitable for average swimming activities are also available these days in addition to the smaller versions that are suitable for activities by the younger lot of the house.

These pools are especially suitable for those people who do not want to get their entire backyard dug up to make way for in-ground pools. Above ground pools also will not need any outsider’s help as many do-it-yourself options are available in the market nowadays that can be easily installed by the homeowner using the directions given by the company. All you need before installing a pool is a flat-leveled surface in addition to proper water and electricity supply. But, if you are not too comfortable, you can also hire an expert or contractors to professionally install the pool for you.

Generally people go soft-sided above ground pools to further reduce costs. These kinds of pools made from rubber or latex are not very durable; therefore, they are suitable only if one is looking forward to a short-time usage of the pool. But if you are looking forward to enjoying water in your backyard, you should go for the hard-sided varieties that employ metals or fiberglass in their construction.

Some companies also offer deck installation with pools with some extra charges. The decks will not only give you space alongside the pool for sunbathing or relaxing, they would also act as solid supporters for the pool, especially if you don’t have a solid pool liner, and therefore are recommended to pool buyers generally.

Many above ground swimming pools for sale are available online these days as well in large number of options and sizes. Discount above ground swimming pools along with free shipping facilities are also offered by many companies on the web. So, a thorough and patient browsing online can save you some money that you might utilize to purchase other swimming pool accessories.

photo credit: northpolemama

Above Ground Pool Steps: Taking a Step in the Right Direction

An Essential Item for Any Above Ground Swimming Pool

Above ground pool steps are essential for accessing your pool as well as for safety. Steps are designed for durability and provide materials that are corrosion-resistant for many summers of use.

Pool Service Plans

In Lieu of a Deck

If you don’t have a deck for your above ground pool, then above ground pool steps with a ladder for entry are an ideal way to access your swimming pool. Therefore, these types of steps furnish a low-cost way to enter and exit an above ground pool safely. A ladder for this type of entry and exit system is affixed to the steps and can generally hold a swimmer over 300 pounds. Made of dependable polyethylene, the step and ladder combination features simple and quick installation and can be sized to fit pools as deep as 54 inches.

A More Expansive Design – Features and Benefits

Other above ground pool steps offer wide stairs and a platform for pool entry. Above ground pool steps are not only resistant to corrosion but pool chemicals too. With non-skid surfaces and a handrail for added support, above ground pool steps offer security and convenience. In addition, these types of above ground pool steps can be attached to your swimming pool, thereby providing a solid installation. Installed quickly with a screwdriver, some come with an exterior staircase for security and to prevent trespassing.

What to Look for When Buying an Entry System for your Pool

While resin is a superior material to use for above ground pool steps, so is PVC. Both materials can take on the outside elements superbly without any undue effects. Above ground pool steps made of these materials are singularly easier to maintain as they don’t require any special solvents in order to be cleaned. When choosing above ground pool steps then, you’ll want to find some that are relatively easy to install and ideally feature slip-resistant, corrosion-resistant stairs with handrails for extra mobility, safety and stability. Some steps also can be adjusted to a variety of pool depths.

Above Ground Pool Steps with Gated Entry

Some above ground pool steps add even more safety by including an entry system with a gate that comes with a lock and key. Typically, most of these systems can fit 48” and 54” deep round, above ground pools.  Most conform to local building codes as well. Such a system is usually made of vinyl and provides a sturdy and secure way to enter and exit your pool.

A 3-Year Guarantee

Most of the above ground pool steps sold on the Internet offer a 3-year warranty with respect to defects and workmanship. Whether you choose adjustable above ground pool steps or can find an entry system that can be configured with above ground pools, be sure that the steps are solid and can simply be removed for storage purposes. Thereafter, safety, ease and convenience are features you want to look for when deciding on the right above ground pool steps for your swimming pool.

photo credit: Michelle Schantz (Schantzilla)

What to Look for when Choosing a Pool Service

Expectations

The sanitation and hygiene of your swimming pool is a priority; therefore, sometimes finding a pool service can be challenging task with respect keeping your pool clean on a regular basis. Before you canvas the yellow pages looking for a company then, take some time to decide what you expect from a pool service before investing any hard-earned money in the maintenance of your pool.

Service Plans

A pool service typically offers a number of service plans which involve cleaning the pool once or twice a week. Maintenance offerings also entail inspections, one-time cleaning, replacement of filter cartridges, vacation cleaning, chemical delivery, new pool start-up services, repairing automatic pool cleaners and the sales of pool supplies. Most pool service technicians clean pools ranging from approximately 5,000 to around 250,000 gallons in size.

Trained and Certified

Therefore, look for a pool service that has employees who are certified to clean pools and can supply you with several references with respect to their service. Don’t hire a pool service whose employees work as subcontractors. Make certain they’re certified and direct employees of the company.

Pool Service Offerings

Also, make sure the company has a variety of offerings with respect to maintenance. In other words, they should be able to offer you one of the following services:

–Weekly chemical and filter service and cleaning;

–Weekly full service and maintenance for any type of pool;

–Bi-weekly service and maintenance for any type of pool; and

–Delivery and supply of pool equipment

Other Criteria to Consider when Choosing a Company

In addition, a pool service should be licensed and insured to cover both residential and commercial accounts. It’s preferable too to choose one where there are no initial fees or contracts to sign and that offers billing on a monthly basis. If you can find one who will undertake a detailed analysis of the condition of your pool’s water, then that is good too as it will help you determine the best maintenance plan to select with respect to caring for your pool on a regular basis.

Making an Assessment of your Pool’s Water

Analyzing the pool’s water for pH, calcium hardness, metals, phosphates, dissolved solids and determining the saturation index will better assist in facilitating a service plan that will maintain the cleanliness and overall condition of your pool’s system. Therefore, testing the components in the water first can save time and reduce total maintenance costs while keeping the water in premium condition.

Summation

The pool service you select  should be a reliable and established company in your community. It should be a company that can inspect and analyze your above ground swimming pool’s water and make the appropriate recommendations with regards to cleaning and treatment. Make sure you obtain references from other customers who have used the company and that the employees are certified technicians. Keeping this information in mind as you shop for a pool service can reap successful results in the care of your swimming pool and help keep it in pristine shape for many years to come.

photo credit: St.A.

Above Ground Pool Decks: What to Consider Before You Buy

Above ground swimming pools are a great way to relax in the summer when you just need to unwind after a long day at work. Above ground pool decks are one of the best things that you can add on your pool. If you’re thinking about getting one soon, then you’ll want to read this article.

We’ll discuss some of the main things that you’ll want to think about when you’re choosing an above ground pool deck, including safety issues and maintenance. After reading this article, you should be able to find the right deck for your pool.

Safety Issues for Above Ground Pool Decking
Some of the first things that you want to think about when you’re considering which deck to get is how safe is it. Here is a list of things to think about when you’re comparing decks:

• Construction materials – what is the deck made of? If you’re not getting above ground pool deck designs so that you can specify the materials that your deck will be made of, you’ll want to take a look at how the decking will hold up to exposure to UV and pool chemicals. You also want to be sure that the materials are designed to hold up to use over time, and have a good stress rating. After all, they’re going to be holding your and your loved ones’ weight on a regular basis. If you are getting your own above ground pool deck plans made, then be sure to discuss the materials with your planner.
• Gate – Make sure that stairways up to the deck come with a gate that can be locked. This is essential if you have little kids to protect and keep out of the pool when you’re not there.
• Railing – You want to be sure that when you slip, you are going to end up head first in the pool. A railing will help to keep you out of the pool in such an event.
• Hardware – Are the connecting joints and hardware that does the connecting made of high quality and long lasting materials? You don’t want your support structure giving out on you while you’re up on the deck. Remember that the pool water will likely be dripping down on all surfaces of the deck. So they’ll need to be able to stand up against pool chemicals as well.

How to Maintain Above Ground Pool Decks

If you have an above ground pool with deck, you’re going to want to take a look at the manufacturer’s suggestions on how to clean and maintain your deck. But in most cases, rinsing the decking with clean water once or twice throughout the season, and then one last time when you’re shutting down the pool is usually a good rule of thumb to follow.

You’ll also want to inspect your deck periodically, or have it inspected, as the years go by, to make sure that no maintenance issues have occurred. And if they have, you’ll be able to get them taken care of quickly before the problem worsens. A good schedule for this would be to do it at the beginning of every season as you start to get your pool ready for the coming swimming season.

Conclusion

Now that you know some of the issues that you’ll want to be thinking about with respect to above ground pool decks, you’ll be able to make a great decision about which one to go with to keep you family safe and swimming all season!

photo credit: Gamma-Ray Productions

The Joy of Saving Money with Solar Pool Covers

If you want to learn about saving money using solar pool covers, then you’ll want to read this article. Specifically we’ll discuss how to save money on heating your pool, keeping the pool clean and how to care for your solar pool cover. After reading this article, you should be able to cut expenses of owning above ground swimming pools.

Saving Money on Heating

If you ever shut down your pool for the winter because the pool just gets too cold, then at some point before that, you’re probably using a swimming pool heater to keep the pool warmer for a little longer. Let’s face it. No one wants the swimming season to come to an end. Using a solar pool cover in addition to your pool heater is a smart way to save some money. Solar covers for pools can raise the temperature of your swimming pool by as much as 10 degrees. This means that you can use your heater less, or can use your pool longer into the cold season without having to pay more for the cost of heating the pool.

Saving Money on Swimming Pool Chemicals

Another way that solar swimming pool covers will save you money is that by keeping your pool covered when you’re not using it, fewer leaves and less debris will get into the pool. This means that your swimming pool chemicals will last longer, and that you’ll need to less of them. There’s nothing better than not having to pay for extra chemicals that just aren’t needed.

Caring for Your Solar Pool Cover

The best way to care for solar pool covers is to make sure that when they’re not covering the pool, they are not heaped in a pile on the ground. This means using some sort of storage mechanism such as a solar pool cover reel or a solar cover saddle. The reel is a very elegant solution since it can be worked by just one person fairly easily. This will eliminate a lot of the struggle of dealing with pool covers by oneself.

Conclusion

So now that you know how you’ll be saving money by using a solar pool cover on heating your pool and keeping it clean, you can see that adding one to your wish list of things to get for your above ground swimming pool will ensure that you can use your pool longer and save money too.

photo credit: adotjdotsmith

Take the Solar Pool Cover Quiz

Overview

Are you thinking about getting a solar pool cover for your above ground swimming pool? If so take a few moments to take this quiz about above ground pool solar covers to see if one might be right for you.

When should I use my solar pool cover?

1. I only need to use my cover when it’s cold out.
2. I only need to use it on cloudy days.
3. I should use it all the time.
4. I live in a warm climate and don’t have any use for pool solar covers.

Answer: 3 – use your cover all the time. Swimming pool solar covers help to reduce heating needs at all times, and also help to keep the pool cleaner by keeping debris out.

Why do I need a solar pool cover reel?

1. Reels help to keep your pool cover stored safely when not covering the pool.
2. Reels help you be able to manage a cover by yourself.
3. A solar pool cover reel extends the life of the cover.
4. All of the above.

Answer: 4 – all of the above. Pool covers should be stored safely so that they are less likely to be damaged when not in use, and can be awkward to manage with only one person. Safe storage helps to extend the life of the cover.

How can I store pool solar covers during the day?

1. Just pull the cover off and put it on the ground.
2. Use a solar pool cover reel to safely store it when not in use.
3. Place the cover in a solar saddle on the side of the pool while swimming.
4. Both 2 and 3.

Answer: 4 – Use a reel or a solar saddle to safely store the cover when you’re swimming in the pool.

How do swimming pool solar covers save me money?

1. My heating bill will be lower since the cover will heat the pool up to 10 degrees warmer.
2. I’ll need fewer pool chemicals to keep the pool clean if I use my solar cover for pool regularly.
3. Both 1 and 2.
4. None of the above.

Answer: 3 – Using a solar cover will lower your pool heating costs and keep the pool cleaner.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve taken this little quiz, you should have a good idea on the benefits of adding a solar cover for pool to above ground swimming pools. You know how swimming pool solar covers will save you money and the different ways of taking care of it. So take the next step and add one to your pool.

photo credit: jasminejennyjen

How Fiberglass Pools Compare to Above Ground Swimming Pools

Overview
If you’re thinking about getting an above ground swimming pool, it would be a good idea to know about the other kinds of pools that are available as a comparison. This article will focus on fiberglass pools and how they compare to above ground pools.

Inground fiberglass pools are one type of inground pool that is currently available in the market. They have a number of attractive features, but are substantially more expensive than above ground swimming pools.

How Fiberglass pools are manufactured
Fiberglass pools are typically manufactured for a specific customer, especially if the particular shape that is ordered is not a stock shape, but rather a custom shape. Most brands of fiberglass swimming pools have a variety of predetermined shapes to choose from. Once the particular shape has been selected, the order is sent to the manufacturing facility of the company. The pool is then built to order and shipped to the customer.

Costs of Fiberglass Pools
There are several things to consider about fiberglass pool prices vs. the price of above-ground swimming pools. First and foremost is the up-front cost of the pool itself. Typical fiberglass pools cost from $20-30K for a small pool up to $40-50K for a large one. The variation in costs come from several factors including the types of pool accessories that are added on at the time of the order, ordering a custom shape vs. a standard shape, and the shipping distance.

While this is a substantial expense in the beginning, one of the things that fiberglass pools have an advantage over other pool types is that the ongoing cost of ownership is lower than other pool types. Typically, they require less time to maintain during the swimming season, require less cleaning and fewer chemicals due to the nature of fiberglass as a material. They don’t require replacement of the vinyl liner, since they don’t have one, and they don’t require remarciting as do cement inground pools. Most fiberglass pool manufacturers say that over a period of ten years, the cost of maintaining other pool types makes fiberglass pools prices more competitive.

Installation times
While still requiring more time to install than an above ground swimming pool, fiberglass pools can be installed much more quickly than other inground pools. This is because the excavation of the pool site can be timed with the delivery of the fiberglass pool to the site so that there is very little waiting in between.

Conclusion
So the biggest factors to take into consideration when comparing these two types of pools are upfront costs vs. cost of ownership over time, creating a permanent fixture vs. having a pool that can be disassembled and taken with to a new location, time of installation.

Once you know what your answer is to these issues, you’ll be able to make your decision about whether to go with a fiberglass swimming pool or an above ground swimming pool.

photo credit: Lostinawave

10 Reasons to Own Above-Ground Swimming Pools

Overview

There are many reasons to own above-ground swimming pools. This article will delve into the top list of reasons that would make you want to own one.

10 Reasons to Own an Above-Ground Swimming Pool

1. Bring the Family Closer Together
   Above-ground swimming pools are a great place to get together as a family. Starting with your young children and teaching them to swim to having pool parties at all their birthdays, your pool can be the place where you make your family memories.
2. Relaxation
   Swimming is the perfect way to relieve the stress of your afternoon commute. Coming home and jumping into above the ground swimming pools is the best way forget a hard day at the office for many people.
3. Social Events
   Pools make a great place to have a block party for the neighborhood kids in the summer, or for an after-hours get-together for the office. Birthdays and extended family gatherings are always great events to have around the pool.
4. Limited Space
   If you live in the city, or just don’t have that big a lot, then you definitely should think about this kind of pool. There are many brands of pools that come in very small sizes, such as intex above ground swimming pools or pools by Atlantis. Sizes start at 12′ around.
5. Physical Fitness
   Swimming is one of the best exercises for overall fitness. It’s low impact and is a high calorie burner. It’s also a cross-body coordinating activity. Such activities are supposed to help reduce the risk of contracting Alzheimer’s.
6. Privacy
   One of the best things about having your own pool is that you don’t have to share with anyone else if you don’t want to. If you’re the kind of person who values alone-time, then having a pool in the back yard surrounded by a privacy fence can be the perfect oasis to get away to.
7. Do it Yourself Option
   Do you enjoy building major projects yourself? Above-ground swimming pool kits are readily available. And there are lots of resources on the web to help you if you get stuck at some point in the installation process. You might also want to ask your dealer if they provide phone help before you make your decision.
8. Improve the Look and Feel of Your Home
   This can be true if you take the time and make the investment in additional swimming pool accessories such as above ground pool decks and privacy fences.
9. Costs Compared to Inground Pools
   The construction costs of inground pools is substantially higher than the cost of discount above the ground swimming pools. There’s no excavation expenses. Less room is needed, and your pool can be set up much more quickly.

10. Beat the Heat in the Summer
    Do you live in the US in the lower 48? Chances are that it’s hot in the summer. There’s nothing better than jumping into the pool on a hot day to cool off.

Conclusion
Owning a pool is easy to do and there are tons of places to find above ground swimming pools for sale. These 10 reasons are some of the best reasons to get one.

photo credit: DrBacchus

The Different Types of Above Ground Swimming Pools

As I was thinking about what kind of an above-ground swimming pool I might want to get, I realized that it might be a good idea to look into the different types of pools that are available on the market currently. And I realized that this might be something that would be interesting to many people. So what kinds of materials are being used? What sizes do they come in? And what price ranges are typical for all of these different types?

One of the first basic differences is the difference between a hard and soft walled pool. Traditionally, above ground pools were made of metal, typically steel. They then have a vinyl pool liner attached to the edge of the walls to retain the water of the pool. These pools are typically cheaper than more recent designs of pool types, such as the soft walled pool. They also usually come in the round or oval shape.

Soft walled pools are pretty interesting. The material used to make them has to be really strong, since the pool liner is also the outer wall. Typically the material used is the same as that found in bullet proof vests. While being more expensive, it definitely makes it a more durable choice over the hard shell pools.

The amount of room you have for a pool will certainly determine what size of pool you purchase. The area where the pool is to be installed needs to be leveled in preparation for placement of the pool. The typical size of pool starts at 12’ round. This is a great size if you have a small level lot. If you have more room, you can start to look at rectangular pools that can go up in size as large as 32 to 40 feet in length.

There is a huge range of price difference for above ground swimming pools. If you look for cheap above ground pools online, you’ll be able to find tons of places with sale prices as low as $800-1200. If you’re looking for something that you could use as a lap pool, you could easily spend up to $8000, including all the swimming pool accessories you might need such as swimming pool chemicals, pool ladders, pool filters and pumps.

The bottom line is to balance the size you want with the space you have and still leave room in your budget for the gear you need to make your above ground swimming pool the private oasis you’re dreaming of.

Welcome to Above Ground Swimming Pools

Welcome to the site about above-ground swimming pools. This site contains everything you need to know, or might like to learn about above ground swimming pools, from pool accessories and maintenance

products such as cleaning supplies and pool chemicals, to comparisons between above ground pools and inground pools. If you have questions about pool floats, pool filters, pool liners, etc., this is the place to find the answers.

Whether you’re trying to decide if you should have your old above ground pool repaired, or if you’re looking into getting a new one installed, you’ve come to the right place. You’ll find the information you’re looking for to make a decision about issues of safety regarding pool slides and other pool toys for your kids, what kind of swimming pool chemicals are right for you, and whether the above ground pool ladders you’ve been looking for will go with the pool you’re thinking of getting.

To use this site, all you have to do is click on a link under Categories on the right hand side. That will take you to the article on that particular topic. After you’ve reviewed the article or post, if you have any comments that you might want to add, just click on the comment link at the bottom of the article and you’ll be able to enter in your comments.

Every page will have the Category list of articles so that you can easily browse around to find the information you’re looking for. If you’re not sure what article might cover the topic you’re interested in, just enter the key word for that topic in the search field. A list of related topics will come up for you to choose from. So, for example, if you wanted to find articles on solar pool covers, you would just type that into the search field and click the search button. The list of articles and posts that talked about them would come up.

We will be growing our site over the next few months, so check back with us often. We plan on adding features such as the history of pools, and future tech corner talking on what to expect in terms of innovations in the field of above ground swimming pools. If there’s a feature that you’d like to see discussed on our site, please feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to look into adding it to the site.

Thanks for visiting!

photo credit: plasticrevolver