What are the downsides of getting an above ground pool kit? Anything I should consider before buying?

[jhinks]

I’ve been looking at a few above ground pool kits and while they seem like a great option cost-wise, I want to make sure I’m not overlooking anything. Are there any reasons someone wouldn’t want to go with an above ground setup?

Curious if anyone here ran into issues after installing theirs or ended up wishing they went a different route. Things like durability, long-term maintenance, restrictions with landscaping, or anything else I might not be thinking about.

Just trying to get the full picture before I buy and go the DIY pool route. If you’ve owned one, built one, or almost bought one and changed your mind, I’d love to hear what factored into your decision.

Huge thanks in advance btw.

 

[AvaWilson]

I’ve been looking at a few above ground pool kits and while they seem like a great option cost-wise, I want to make sure I’m not overlooking anything. Are there any reasons someone wouldn’t want to go with an above ground setup?

Curious if anyone here ran into issues after installing theirs or ended up wishing they went a different route. Things like durability, long-term maintenance, restrictions with landscaping, or anything else I might not be thinking about.

Just trying to get the full picture before I buy and go the DIY pool route. If you’ve owned one, built one, or almost bought one and changed your mind, I’d love to hear what factored into your decision.

Huge thanks in advance btw.

Hey jhinks! One thing to consider is the space in your yard. Above-ground pools can take up quite a bit of room, so make sure there's enough space for access and landscaping around it. Also, check the accessibility to the filter and pump for long-term maintenance

 

[Brandon Hayes]

I’ve been looking at a few above ground pool kits and while they seem like a great option cost-wise, I want to make sure I’m not overlooking anything. Are there any reasons someone wouldn’t want to go with an above ground setup?

Curious if anyone here ran into issues after installing theirs or ended up wishing they went a different route. Things like durability, long-term maintenance, restrictions with landscaping, or anything else I might not be thinking about.

Just trying to get the full picture before I buy and go the DIY pool route. If you’ve owned one, built one, or almost bought one and changed your mind, I’d love to hear what factored into your decision.

Huge thanks in advance btw.

It really makes a difference when you’re investing in something like a pool. I went with an above ground pool a few years ago and overall I’ve been happy with it, but there are definitely a few things to keep in mind that don’t always show up in the sales pitch.

Durability is a big one. Most above ground pools hold up fine with proper care, but they’re more vulnerable to damage from weather, shifting ground, or even lawn equipment if you're not careful. If you plan to keep it up year-round, make sure you go with a solid frame and not just one of the seasonal pop-up styles. Also, depending on your climate, winterizing can be a bit of a chore.

The other big consideration is landscaping and aesthetics. Above ground pools can look a little out of place if not well-integrated, so some people end up building a deck or adding skirting to make it feel more permanent, which can add to the cost. Access and entry (especially for kids or older family members) is something to plan ahead for too. But if you’re okay with a bit of DIY and ongoing upkeep, they’re a solid option for summer fun without the huge price tag of an in-ground build.

 

[syedsalman]

I’ve been looking at a few above ground pool kits and while they seem like a great option cost-wise, I want to make sure I’m not overlooking anything. Are there any reasons someone wouldn’t want to go with an above ground setup?

Curious if anyone here ran into issues after installing theirs or ended up wishing they went a different route. Things like durability, long-term maintenance, restrictions with landscaping, or anything else I might not be thinking about.

Just trying to get the full picture before I buy and go the DIY pool route. If you’ve owned one, built one, or almost bought one and changed your mind, I’d love to hear what factored into your decision.

Huge thanks in advance btw.

I’ve had an above ground pool for a few years now. Honestly, they’re a solid option if you're trying to keep costs down. That said, there are a few things to keep in mind.

They don’t look as clean as in-ground ones, even if you build a nice deck around it. And depending on where you live, you might have to mess with permits, fencing rules, all that stuff.

Durability-wise, they’re decent, but you gotta take care of them. The metal walls can rust if water gets trapped or if the liner leaks and you don’t catch it. Liners also don’t last forever, so expect to replace them every so often.

One thing I wish I knew earlier some kits come with pumps/filters that are way too weak. I upgraded mine after the first summer and it made a big difference.

If you're handy and okay doing a bit of maintenance, it's worth it. Just don’t expect zero effort.

 

[Monica Cardona]

I’ve been looking at a few above ground pool kits and while they seem like a great option cost-wise, I want to make sure I’m not overlooking anything. Are there any reasons someone wouldn’t want to go with an above ground setup?

Curious if anyone here ran into issues after installing theirs or ended up wishing they went a different route. Things like durability, long-term maintenance, restrictions with landscaping, or anything else I might not be thinking about.

Just trying to get the full picture before I buy and go the DIY pool route. If you’ve owned one, built one, or almost bought one and changed your mind, I’d love to hear what factored into your decision.

Huge thanks in advance btw.

Above-ground pools are a great, cost-effective option but do come with some considerations. They may not last as long as in-ground pools and can feel temporary or out of place in your yard. Landscaping around them can be challenging, and while maintenance is easier, it still requires regular attention. In colder climates, you'll need to winterize, and the pool may only be usable for a few months. Also, they don't usually add significant resale value. If these factors don’t bother you, it can be a fantastic choice!

 

[Brent Carter]

I’ve been looking at a few above ground pool kits and while they seem like a great option cost-wise, I want to make sure I’m not overlooking anything. Are there any reasons someone wouldn’t want to go with an above ground setup?

Curious if anyone here ran into issues after installing theirs or ended up wishing they went a different route. Things like durability, long-term maintenance, restrictions with landscaping, or anything else I might not be thinking about.

Just trying to get the full picture before I buy and go the DIY pool route. If you’ve owned one, built one, or almost bought one and changed your mind, I’d love to hear what factored into your decision.

Huge thanks in advance btw.

I looked at a few above-ground kits before buying one, and I’ll be honest, it seemed like a great deal at first, but there were a few things that caught me off guard once it was all set up.

For one, I didn’t think much about the space around the pool. After installing it, I realized how tricky it was to make it look good in the yard. The pool sits up high, and unless you build a deck or add some landscaping, it kind of sticks out. I had plans to add steps and a platform later, but between time and cost, it took a lot longer than I expected to make the area feel finished.

The pool itself held up okay, but I did have to replace the liner after a couple seasons. Didn’t expect that so soon. Some seams started to wear out and a small tear showed up near the bottom. Could’ve been weather or shifting, not sure. Either way, it wasn’t something I planned for in the budget.

I also ran into a local rule that said the pool had to be a certain distance from the property line. I didn’t know that ahead of time. Had to move it, which meant re-leveling the ground and redoing the support blocks. Not fun.

If I’m being fair, it still does what I wanted, something to jump into on hot days, a spot for the kids to burn energy. But if you’re going this route, I’d say don’t just look at the cost of the kit. Think about the extra stuff, the base, the fencing (if it’s required where you are), the pump (the included one might not be strong enough), and any safety stuff you need.

 

[David Wilson]

Hey jhinks, good question, I went through the same debate before getting mine. Above-ground pools are great for saving money and time, but there are a few trade-offs worth knowing. They don’t last as long as in-ground ones, especially if exposed to harsh weather or if the liner wears out early. You’ll also need to level the ground perfectly, or you’ll notice uneven water lines later.

They can look a bit bulky in the yard unless you dress them up with decking or plants. Another thing, most kits come with pretty basic pumps, so upgrading the filter setup helps a ton. I use Aquadoc’s clarifier once a week too, keeps the water clear without much hassle.

If you’re okay with a bit of maintenance and don’t mind the look, they’re a solid option. Just plan ahead for the setup and upgrades you might want later.

 

[Nathan Parker]

We put up our above-ground kit last summer, and overall it’s been great, but there are a few things I wish I’d known. Leveling the base took way more effort than expected, and you really need a solid pump, the one that came with ours wasn’t strong enough. I also use Aquadoc’s clarifier weekly, which keeps the water spotless. It’s not as sleek as an in-ground setup, but for the cost and flexibility, it’s hard to beat.