Buying Your First Pool; Should it be Above Ground or In-Ground?

So you want a swimming pool huh? Before you whip out that credit card or checkbook there is some things you should consider before purchase. Both in-ground and above ground pools have their advantages and disadvantages. The first thing you need to determine is why you want a pool in the first place. What is its purpose and who will be using it? Once determined, you will be able to make a choice you won’t later regret.

The Above Ground Pool

When it comes to buying any kind of pool, the first thing that is usually on the forefront of most people’s minds is safety; especially when it comes to children. Your little ones and their pets are more likely to run into trouble when it comes to in-ground pools. It is easier to protect an above ground pool and due to their being more shallow, many kids can safely stand up in them without fear of drowning.

In some cases the size and shape of one’s yard makes in-ground pools impractical if not impossible. Above ground pools also have the ability to be moved so your commitment to the pool is not going to be at the same level. If you decide to up and move one day, you can easily pack up your pool and move it to the new house.

When it comes to selling your house, above ground pools have an added advantage for many buyers. If potential buyers love the home but are not so committed to the whole swimming thing, they can buy the house and dismantle the pool. If you have an in-ground pool, prospective homeowners are going to have to really love pools to buy your home because you can’t easily get rid of an in-ground one. While all pools require some upkeep, the initial cost of setting up your pool is going to be a lot less and can be ready to use and a day or two, unlike in-ground pools.

The In-Ground Pool

We already know that the in-ground pool option is going to take some time to install and will cost much more on the outset. So what are the advantages to owning an in-ground pool? Many people choose in-ground pools just for their appearance alone. Above ground pools tend to look more awkward. They don’t have the natural appearance that an in-ground pool can have. With an in-ground pool you can create an exotic look that fits with the natural beauty of your home and you have many more styles to choose from or you can have you pool made to custom specifications. If you have older children or adults that are going to be using the pool you may want to just consider in-ground pools. Standard in-ground pools go from three to four feet up to eight feet and if you like you can make provisions to have a much deeper pool. With your in-ground option you can install things like slides and diving boards without the risk of a person hitting their head on the bottom of the pool. In-ground pools can make your home look so much more exotic and can increase the value of the home more so than the above ground option.

A Word about Safety

After the purchase of your pool, your expenses do not stop there. The main consideration you’ll have will be for the safety of your family members and friends who may be coming over for a visit. Especially with an in-ground pool, you’re going to have to install safety options that can vary from fences and gates to window and door alarms. With both you might want to have personal water alarms that your children can wear or in-pool surface or submerged alarms as well. Either way, you’re going to have to budget for the safety of potential swimmers. A pool can be a wonderful thing, especially during the hot summer months. Just make sure you do your research before buying.

Michael Arnett is a professional blogger that shares information and advice on pool maintenance and safety. He writes for Royal Swimming Pools, the best place to find swimming pool kits, pool safety covers and everything you need for pool maintenance. 

 

Tags: indoor swimming pool, pool supplies, pools, Swimming pool, swimming pool games, swimming pool supplies, swimming pools, Swimming Pools and Spas

Category: Home Improvements