How above ground pools work

Above ground pools vary slightly depending on the model, but most manufacturers follow the same general rules.

Walls

The walls are usually made of galvanized steel. For round and oval pools, the wall is one piece. They are also grooved for sturdiness and lined with vinyl and a large number of coatings to help protect and give a nicer look. Usually the more layers there are on the steel, the longer the wall will last.

The strength of the wall also determines the integrity of the pool. It should be able to safely hold several cubic meters of water for the life of the pool.

Frame

The frame of an above ground pool ensures that the wall will stay in place and makes the pool more durable. It is important that the frame is strong and able to withstand exposure to the elements, so it is generally made of steel, pressed aluminum or resin.

Gunwale

The handrail forms the overhang of the pool and connects the vertical stakes. It needs to be very durable. Attention, the handrail is not designed for sitting, walking or stepping on.

Cradle 

The support base extends between the vertical piles and forms the lower edge of the pool.

Swimming pool lining

The inner surface of the pool is covered with a special plastic material (vinyl liner), necessary for the internal sealing. As time goes by the liner may need to be replaced. It is generally expected to last 5 to 10 years.

Skimmer

You will find the skimmer attached to the pool wall, just below the top edge of the pool. This is the opening you see when you are in the pool right at the water line. From there the water is transferred to the filtration system. The purpose of the skimmer is to catch large debris before it reaches the filter.

Most skimmers have a fin, which traps debris in the sump while also helping the water flow steadily. In the well of the skimmer there is a special basket where the waste is collected and removed.

In many swimming pools the skimmer is also a connection point to the cleaning system.

Pump and filtration system 

Filtration systems vary depending on the size of the pool and the type of filtration media they use. They must be located next to the pool and connected to the Skimmer and the return spout by means of flexible hoses. The pool water passes through the Skimmer, is pushed through the filter and then returns to the pool through the return spout.

Water circulation

All above ground pools have areas with little or no traffic. These points of minimal circulation are a breeding ground for problems such as algae. The walls and bottom should be brushed and wiped once a week. Even if you use an automatic cleaner, brushing is necessary once a week.

Check the water regularly

Test your water regularly for two important factors: pH and disinfectants. By testing the water at least three times a week you will begin to understand how bathers, weather conditions and chemicals affect your pool water. By regularly checking for pH and disinfectants you will be sure of water purity all year round. There are digital tests on the market that make this process faster and easier.

Preparing the garden

Once you have decided on the design and shape of your above ground pool, it is time to prepare the ground on which you will place it.

Step 1: Placement

The first step is to decide where you want to place the pool in the garden. Look carefully at the ground where you plan to place it. Look for large rocks or other ground irregularities. Also notice the distance between this area and other important elements of the garden such as trees or plants.

Step 2: Clean the area

Remove from the ground all those elements that may not form a proper base for the pool. Sharp stones for example must be cleaned. Also, old tools or garden accessories that may puncture the sides of the pool should be removed.

Step 3: Measure 

Measure the diameter of the space where you plan to place your above ground pool. Mark this area with a piece of string. Place a rock or other heavy object to keep the rope from blowing away in the wind. Careful planning is essential. If you change your mind later it will probably be impossible to recreate the area as it was before you started digging.

Step 4: Start digging

Use a shovel to dig the area where you will place the pool. Remove the soil by making a pile which you will later carry away. Use larger shovels to remove large amounts of soil and smaller shovels for detail work. Measure the depth of the hole you created. The hole should be about five centimeters deep for a more correct positioning of the pool.

Step 5: Level the mounting area

Use the appropriate tools to level the ground where the pool will be placed. If you notice potential inconsistencies, dig a little further. Also use a hose with water to dampen any dust that may have been created during digging. Dust can fool you into not seeing that the ground is not flat.

Step 6: Wait 24 hours

After you finish digging, leave the soil for 24 hours. This will help you decide if the hole is perfectly flat. Check the next day to make sure, and then you can start placing the pool over the area you created.

Cost

Above ground swimming pools present a wide variety from economical models to more luxurious ones. Many people choose such a pool because it serves them and at the same time they can afford it. But exactly how much it will cost is a question whose answer depends on many factors, such as size, special features and location.

There are two things that add to the price of an above ground pool: the kit and the installation. Many companies only sell the kit and do not undertake the installation of the pool. Also the quality of the materials from which the pool is made plays a very big role. The more expensive the materials, the more expensive the installation. Keep in mind that it often costs more to install than to buy the kit.

The location you are in also plays an important role in the cost of the pool. If the ground has rocks it needs more work and for a longer period of time.

Finally, the features you may want to add to your pool also have a special cost. The fences, the fountains and other extras may result in increased costs.

The best way to get an accurate cost estimate is to contact a professional.