Summer is right around the corner!
If you’re like many people across the country right now, you’re beginning to prepare for the warm temperatures and the kids being home from school.
For many, this means opening their pool or beginning their search for the perfect one to add to their backyard.
Above-ground pools offer a powerful solution for homeowners looking for an affordable way to amp up the fun in their backyard without needing a large space or months to prepare.
If you’ve finally decided to take the plunge and invest in an above-ground pool to cool off this summer, this article is for you.
Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about above-ground pools. From the three main types and how to choose the best one for you, to five stunning options that will bring years of fun to your home, this article has it all.
Let’s dive in.
Types of Above-Ground Pools
Over the years, as technology has advanced, the materials used to make above-ground pools have evolved.
Today, there are three main types of above-ground pools, each one with its own unique benefits and price points.
Aluminum or Steel
Steel or aluminum above-ground pools are the traditional design, providing both durability and affordability.
While aluminum pools offer more flexibility than steel designs, many of these pools are made using a combination of metals, so finding one that meets your needs and looks visually appealing won’t be a challenge.
Resin
Above-ground pools designed using resin materials are incredibly durable, combating corrosion and rust, making them longer lasting than traditional aluminum or steel pools.
Due to the dense material, they’re also less susceptible to being damaged over the years, minimizing any dents or warping.
With injection molded resin, these pools become even more advanced.
This process produces improved alignment throughout your pool, ensuring each piece fits together flawlessly for an easy install.
Unfortunately, resin pools are one of the most expensive options.
If you’re sticking to a tight budget, you may want to consider an aluminum pool or aim for a hybrid if you want the durability of resin with a lower price tag.
Hybrid
If you want the best of both worlds, a hybrid pool is the way to go.
These pools combine the benefits of both resin and steel pools, giving you a distinct design that’s as durable as it is elegant.
Hybrid above-ground pools generally have a more affordable price due to the combination of materials, reducing the overall cost of the resin needed for the design.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Above-Ground Pool
As you can see, above-ground pools come in many styles, but when it comes to selecting your spa, you’ll need to consider more than just that.
Before you invest in your pool, consider these three factors to ensure you select the right one for your lifestyle.
Size and Shape
No matter what you’re adding to your backyard, size is going to be an important factor.
If you’re working within a smaller space, you’ll want to ensure the above-ground pool you invest in will complement it without making it feel cramped.
Before choosing your pool, it’s important to know the exact dimensions of your backyard, so you know which size pools would be a good fit.
Additionally, above-ground pools generally come in two shapes:
- Round
- Oval
With an oval pool, you may be able to opt for a slightly larger model based on the layout of your yard, so it’ll be important to consider which shape would suit your property.
Durability
Any pool is an investment, and you’ll want to ensure you are able to enjoy the one you buy for many years.
The material your pool is made of will play a role in how long it’s going to last, with resin pools often being the most durable on the market.
Durability looks different for everyone, and the climate you live in will affect which type of pool would be more durable.
For example, aluminum pools are able to withstand a wide range of temperatures and offer more flexibility to accommodate the cold of winter.
Before selecting your pool, consider where you live and the typical lifespan of each style pool. Additionally, you should verify if there is a warranty to further enhance the longevity (and cost) of the pool.
Your Budget
As with any larger investment, your budget is going to play a significant role in which pool you choose.
While above-ground pools are significantly more affordable than their in-ground counterpart, they do still require some budgeting before you begin your search.
Knowing your budget can help you go into this process with a more robust level of knowledge, helping you better weigh your options as you shop.
Something to keep in mind when planning your budget is that size plays a role in the cost of a pool.
If your heart is set on a resin pool, it’s worth looking into downsizing to a smaller model of the resin pool you’ve got your eye on.
This can help you stay within budget while still gaining the quality you want.
5 Best Above-Ground Pools For 2024
With various above-ground pools on the market, it can be overwhelming to try and choose between all of them, weighing the pros and cons and cons of each.
Below, you’ll find five stunning options that are made of high-quality materials and were designed with longevity and durability in mind.
1. The Trevi 178
This above-ground pool comes in both round and oval options and boasts a range of finishes to match your aesthetic, making it a stunning option that will easily complement any yard.
Made using injected resin and paired with galvanized steel uprights, the Trevi 178 is a durable pool that will provide years of enjoyment for your family.
With both the top and bottom tracks and top connectors being made of durable injected resin, this pool will take minimal work to maintain over the years, allowing you to maximize your time in the water.
2. The Trevi 186
The Trevi 186 is a stunning above-ground pool that can also be either round or oval.
With nearly every aspect of this pool being made of durable injected resin, you’ll have peace of mind knowing it can easily withstand the wear and tear of your kids over the years.
To bring that peace of mind even further, this above-ground pool includes a 25-year Prorated Warranty!
3. The Nakoma
This round or oval pool comes in an impressive range of sizes, making it easy to fit virtually any backyard space.
With a stunning Trinity wall pattern and champagne frame, the Nakoma is sure to make an impact.
Made using durable resin and injection-molding technology, this above-ground pool is not only long-lasting but easy to install, boasting an easy snap-in design with each part flawlessly fitting together.
This above-ground pool boasts a stunning hybrid design, with sturdy steel uprights and stainless steel fasteners paired alongside various parts made using injected resin.
The Mission is an exceptionally durable pool, including an exclusive multi-layer enamel system for added protection.
With an eye-catching design and the Castella wall pattern, this above-ground pool is sure to make a statement, elevating any backyard space.
5. The Round Optimum
The Optimum is a full aluminum and stainless steel above-ground pool, providing a durable frame and long-lasting design.
This pool was made to be more versatile than most others, ensuring it can be installed in various ways, including semi-inground and completely in-ground.
Better yet, with its wide range of sizes, the smallest being 16’ and the largest being 30’, this pool is a great option for smaller spaces and large backyards alike.
Best Above-Ground Pools in Appleton, WI
Whether you’re looking to update your old above-ground pool or are ready to give your backyard the boost it needs to become a summer paradise, the experts at Fox Valley Pool And Spa are your one-stop shop!
If one of the five pools listed above caught your attention, or you’re interested in learning more, contact us or visit us in-store to meet with one of our team members to explore your opinions. We’d love to bring your backyard to life this summer!