What Are the Benefits of an Inground Pool Vs. an Above Ground Pool?

Inground pools are more expensive than above-ground models.

Adding a swimming pool to your yard is a big decision. Inground pools are expensive, and permanent. Before investing in one, consider how many months a year it can be used, how costly it will be to maintain, how often it will be used--and by whom--and what safety structures must be added. Above-ground pools are less expensive, but are more susceptible to problems. If you plan to erect the pool yourself, placement is extremely important, as is ground preparation. Consider the benefits of both pool types before making a purchase.

Cost

Enjoy an above-ground pool.

An inground pool will cost substantially more than an above-ground pool. It will also require a building permit, excavation using heavy equipment, plumbing work, electrical work and concrete work. An above-ground pool requires none of this.

Labor

Building an above-ground pool can be hard work.

The labor required for an inground pool is fairly extensive. However, in most instances, the homeowner is not the one doing the work. An above-ground pool is often erected by the homeowner and is quite labor-intensive in its own right. Clearing and leveling the pool area is physically demanding, as is constructing the pool support system. The job will often take several days.

Placement

Your above-ground pool arrives in boxes.

An above-ground pool needs no more than 3 feet of clearance between permanent structures. It arrives in boxes that can be moved to any area. When it comes to inground pools, there will be situations where access to the digging site is limited. Such conditions can make it unfeasible to build in the prospective location.

Maintenance

Above-ground pool walls may rust.

Inground pools require less maintenance than their above-ground counterparts. Above-ground pools are more exposed to the elements and more vulnerable to things such as sharp objects or overly enthusiastic swimmers. The pool walls are thin and relatively fragile.

Permanence

You can't take an inground pool with you.

When a family relocates, an inground pool must remain. An above-ground pool can be emptied, disassembled and moved to a new location, if desired. It can then be reassembled and enjoyed once again. Usually, a new liner is required.

Repair

Leaks are hard to locate.

When an inground pool leaks, the process of locating and repairing the leak is extensive. The underground plumbing could be broken, or the leak could be at the bottom of the pool. Repairs can become expensive, and involved. An above-ground pool can be patched when there is a leak, and there are no underground pipes to consider. If the tear is extensive, a new liner can be installed.

References

• Landscapingideasonline.com: Deciding on a Pool
• Repair-home.com: Above-ground vs. Inground Pools