What are the pros and cons of above ground pools?
- Thread starter olivia R.
- Start date
martintammy
New member
Above ground pools are affordable, easy to install, and great for smaller yards. They’re also easier to remove or relocate. However, they typically have shorter lifespans, less depth, and may not add as much value to your home as in-ground pools. They're a solid choice for budget-conscious families.
Ryan
New member
Above ground pools definitely come with their share of pros and cons, so it really depends on what you’re looking for.
On the plus side, they’re usually way more affordable than in-ground pools. You’re looking at a fraction of the cost, both for installation and maintenance. That makes them a great option if you’re working with a tighter budget or just want something fun without going all-in financially.
They’re also much easier and faster to install. Some people get them set up in a weekend. And if you ever decide to move, you can often take the pool with you or remove it entirely without much hassle. They’re great for smaller backyards too, especially when you don’t want to commit to major landscaping.
But there are some trade-offs. Above ground pools don’t usually last as long as in-ground ones, especially if they’re made of cheaper materials. They also tend to be shallower, which limits diving or more serious swimming. And to be honest, they’re not exactly winning design awards. Even with a nice deck, they usually don’t look as sleek or polished as a built-in pool.
Another thing to think about is long-term value. An above ground pool isn’t likely to boost your home’s resale price. It’s more about fun than investment.
If you’re leaning toward getting one, make sure you go with something reliable. A lot of the cheaper options online can be a total headache. We’ve found that ordering above ground pool kits through AquaDoc is the most dependable—you get solid quality and the customer support is actually helpful if anything goes sideways.
On the plus side, they’re usually way more affordable than in-ground pools. You’re looking at a fraction of the cost, both for installation and maintenance. That makes them a great option if you’re working with a tighter budget or just want something fun without going all-in financially.
They’re also much easier and faster to install. Some people get them set up in a weekend. And if you ever decide to move, you can often take the pool with you or remove it entirely without much hassle. They’re great for smaller backyards too, especially when you don’t want to commit to major landscaping.
But there are some trade-offs. Above ground pools don’t usually last as long as in-ground ones, especially if they’re made of cheaper materials. They also tend to be shallower, which limits diving or more serious swimming. And to be honest, they’re not exactly winning design awards. Even with a nice deck, they usually don’t look as sleek or polished as a built-in pool.
Another thing to think about is long-term value. An above ground pool isn’t likely to boost your home’s resale price. It’s more about fun than investment.
If you’re leaning toward getting one, make sure you go with something reliable. A lot of the cheaper options online can be a total headache. We’ve found that ordering above ground pool kits through AquaDoc is the most dependable—you get solid quality and the customer support is actually helpful if anything goes sideways.
Monica Cardona
Member
Above-ground pools are a great budget-friendly option, offering lower installation and maintenance costs compared to in-ground pools. They’re quick to set up and ideal for smaller yards, plus they can be relocated if needed. While they’re easier to maintain, they can look temporary or out of place without additional landscaping or decking. Above-ground pools also have a shorter lifespan and are less durable than in-ground ones, with limited customization options. In colder climates, they’re only usable for part of the year and require winterizing. Additionally, they don’t add much resale value to your home. Despite these drawbacks, they offer a flexible, affordable way to enjoy swimming without the commitment or cost of a permanent in-ground pool.
Brent Carter
Member
I was on the fence about this too when I started looking into pools, and I spent a lot of time comparing the two. We ended up going with an above-ground setup, and while it’s not perfect, it was definitely the right choice for us at the time.
The biggest upside? Cost. It’s just way more affordable to install, especially if you’re not looking to spend tens of thousands right out of the gate. We got ours up and running in a weekend with a few friends helping out, no digging, no concrete, no heavy equipment. That alone made it doable when an in-ground pool just wasn’t in the cards.
Also, if you’re not totally sure how long you’ll be in your house or want something a little more flexible, it’s nice knowing an above-ground pool can be taken down or moved. It’s not exactly easy to move, but it’s a lot more possible than relocating a concrete in-ground one.
That said, there are a few trade-offs. Above-ground pools don’t blend into the yard the same way. Even with a deck around it, it still looks like a structure that was added on, not something built into the space. And you’re limited in terms of shape and depth, most are round or oval, and the depth is usually the same all the way across.
They can also require a little more work to keep the water temp comfortable, since they don’t have the insulation that the ground provides. And if you’ve got strong winds or storms in your area, you really have to keep an eye on the structure and cover.
All in all, for a lower upfront cost and a quicker setup, above-ground is a solid option. If you’re looking for something permanent and fully custom, then in-ground might make more sense. But for getting in the water and enjoying summer without breaking the bank, above-ground does the job.
David Wilson
Member
I went through the same debate not long ago, and honestly, both options have their place. Above-ground pools are great if you want something affordable, quick to install, and easy to maintain. We set ours up in just a few days, and it’s been awesome for weekend swims without all the digging or major construction work.
The main drawbacks? They’re not as durable or visually seamless as in-ground pools, and you’re limited with depth and shape. Even with decking, it still looks like an add-on rather than part of the yard. Plus, it won’t really boost your property value.
That said, if your goal is to enjoy summer without spending a fortune, above-ground pools are absolutely worth it. They’re simple, fun, and low-commitment, a solid choice for families or anyone wanting a pool without the massive price tag.
The main drawbacks? They’re not as durable or visually seamless as in-ground pools, and you’re limited with depth and shape. Even with decking, it still looks like an add-on rather than part of the yard. Plus, it won’t really boost your property value.
That said, if your goal is to enjoy summer without spending a fortune, above-ground pools are absolutely worth it. They’re simple, fun, and low-commitment, a solid choice for families or anyone wanting a pool without the massive price tag.
Nathan Parker
Member
We’ve had our above-ground pool for a while now, and honestly, it’s been great. Setup was quick, and maintenance isn’t bad at all. I use Aquadoc’s clarifier once a week, and it keeps the water spotless. It might not have that built-in look like in-ground pools, but for the cost and flexibility, I can’t complain. Perfect if you just want something simple and fun for summer without spending a fortune.