The ultimate guide to above ground pool sizes, types, materials and more (2023)

FAQs

What is the best material for an above ground pool? ›

Steel Pools

Steel component above ground pools are known for strength and are considered some of the best above ground pools on the market. Many of these above ground pools use a combination of different metals for various components.

Generally, above ground pools come in the following sizes: 12', 15', 18', 21', 24', 27', 30' & 33'. There are also a variety of oval sizes if your area will not allow for a round pool. Pool Tip: Stick with a round pool if at all possible.

A 24-foot diameter pool is the most popular size for a round above ground model, while 15 by 30 feet is a common choice for oval-shaped pools. However, you'll find round sizes everywhere between 8 and 33 feet. Oval pools range up to 21 by 41 feet but can be customized to stretch much longer.

There are three main types of above-ground pools: inflatable, metal frame and hard-sided. Inflatable options are the most affordable and easiest to set up, but they lack durability, as they don't have a hard frame.

Resin. Resin pools are one of the most popular options because they really are the toughest, longest-lasting above ground pools you can find.

When installed properly, glass tile represent the most durable of all swimming pool and spa interior surfaces. Glass mosaic tile is also resistant to chemical corrosion, impervious to liquids and vapors, resistant to fading, staining and discoloration.

The most common pool size and shape is a 16 by 32-foot rectangle. That's the minimum size you need for an 8-foot deep end. That gives you 8 feet of the shallow end. Bump up to a 16 by 40-foot pool, and you double your shallow end to 16 feet.

The deepest above-ground pool available is the Intex 36-Foot by 16-Foot by 52-Inch Above-Ground Pool. The four-foot depth may not seem like a lot, but in the world of above-ground pools, it's tough to find deeper floors.

Above-ground swimming pools are available in four basic depths: 42 inches, 48 inches, 52 inches and 54 inches. To determine which depth is right for you, answer these questions: Who will be using the pool?

Inflatable swimming pools are the least expensive, easy to maintain, and simple to set up. They require an air pump for inflation, but there's not much to it after that. Depending on the pool's size, setup can be completed in less than 1 hour. Some inflatable pools don't need a filter or chemicals for maintenance.

What is the most popular round above ground pool size? ›

Size up your pool.

Round pools start at 12 feet in diameter, with 24-foot-diameter pools, which can fit four to five people, being the most popular choice, Carnes says. The most popular oval pools are 15 feet by 30 feet. The depth of your pool depends on the wall height.

A popular choice is a gunite swimming pool because it is highly durable and it can be created in just about any shape. Gunite pools use a rebar framework that is sprayed over with a concrete and sand mixture. Gunite is exceedingly durable, so swimming pools made of this substance are built to last.

Unlike traditional above-ground pools that require no digging whatsoever, semi-inground pools are built partially into the ground. How far into the ground the pool is built will vary from pool to pool and is something you should consider if you choose to go down this route.

One of the coolest options for pool deck surfaces are textured acrylic coatings. A coating that's made of concrete and acrylic will absorb less heat than other materials. Texture also makes the surface feel cooler to the touch because when a person walks on it, their bare feet are exposed to less surface area.

Concrete pools are the most expensive to build and to maintain. They take the longest to build. A concrete pool takes a few months to install. Concrete pools require the most hands-on maintenance of the three.

Tile: This is the most expensive, high-end pool finishing option. There are several tile types on the market, including ceramic, porcelain, stone, quartz and glass, each with their advantages and distinct appearances.

The Bottom Line

Concrete pools require the most maintenance. Vinyl pools come in second, and fiberglass needs the least maintenance of all.

Overall, vinyl liner pools are the cheapest inground swimming pools that money can buy. It's rare to find a pool builder who can build a concrete or fiberglass pool at a vinyl liner pool price.

Not only are concrete pools the most popular and highly customizable, but they have the longest lifespan compared to vinyl liner and fiberglass pools. Concrete pools do require a little more maintenance than the fiberglass and vinyl options, but these pools will last much longer with proper care.

Most people are satisfied with the standard depths of 3-5 feet in a pool with multiple depths but it cannot be a right decision if you and your spouse's height are not suitable to those pool depths.

What is the best width of lap pool? ›

Their width ranges from six to 10 ft. Experts recommend a minimum depth of 3-1/2 feet so swimmers don't scrape their hands or feet on the bottom. If you do flip turns at the end of each lap like the Olympic swimmers, you need a pool that's at least four feet deep.

It's recommended having a depth fewer than six feet to meet most pool needs. For a family of six to eight people, an 18 foot by 36-foot pool is recommended. This should be sufficient to avoid crowding and allow for the playing of games. Rectangle shaped pools look best for this size.

The number one reason homeowners choose round above ground pools over ovals is the price. While that may not be shocking, just how much can be saved overall might be. Round pools provide more swimming area at a lower price meaning you're getting the best price per gallon.

Now the most popular pools are 54” tall and they can actually hold 4' of water. Two inches may not seem like a big difference but you will certainly notice it while you are swimming.

A common question asked is, “Can above ground pools stay up year round?” And although the easy answer is that “Yes, they can,” whether you want to leave them up year-round really depends on the type of pool you have. Dismantling some above ground pools for the winter may be more hassle than it's worth.

And for this reason, many people ask, “Can above ground pools be partially buried?” in hopes of receiving the best of both worlds. The short answer is that “Yes, they can!” However, there are some things that should be taken into account if you're going to go down this route.

Remove the dirt to a singe pile where you can cart it away later. Use larger shovels to remove much of the dirt if necessary and smaller shovels for more detailed work. Measure the depth of the hole you've created. The hole should be about two inches deep for best pool placement.

Which prompts the question: Is it OK to put an above-ground pool in the ground? The answer is yes, you can.

The main disadvantage of an above-ground pool is that it generally adds no value to your home. They also have some of the same problems as in-ground pools, such as water evaporation and maintenance issues.

A: It's not a good idea to drain an above ground pool for winter. Snow, ice, extreme cold and errant debris will likely cause significant damage to a pool sitting out exposed to the elements. It's also expensive and time consuming to refill and chemically balance a new pool full of water in the spring.

Are rectangle or circle pools better? ›

More Usable Area. It comes down to simple geometry – a rectangle will have more usable space than a circle or other shape. Since part of the purpose of having a pool is to relax with your family or entertain, you want to maximize as much area as possible!

Larger round pools can offer the best lap swimming along with plenty of room for additional swimmers in the pool. ( The largest oval pool is 18′ wide by 33′ long whereas the largest round is 33′ each way offering more room to swim laps either way.)

Typically, a long, rectangular pool is based for laps since it lets you swim in a straight line. A rounded pool would be better for lounging and for recreational swims. These pools are usually smaller and do not have a straight path for swimming laps.

Fiberglass pools are exceptionally durable and can last the lifetime of a home. Vinyl liner pools can also last the lifetime of a home. However, the liner itself will need to be replaced on average every ten years, but provides a unique opportunity to completely refresh the look of your pool.

People who have heard the buzz about fiberglass, but don't yet have all the details will frequently ask us, “What are its advantages?” When they do, we humorously ask, “How much time do you have?” Not only are fiberglass pools the easiest type to own and maintain, there are many other benefits as well.

A typical vinyl liner lasts between 10 and 15 years, though there are many factors that can affect its lifespan. Living in an area susceptible to ground water problems can reduce your liner's life, as can not keeping the water in your pool balanced.

Steel Pools

Steel component above ground pools are known for strength and are considered some of the best above ground pools on the market. Many of these above ground pools use a combination of different metals for various components.

Mason Sand: This is one of the finest sands available and is very easy to work with. Because of an additional refining process that makes the grains so small, mason sand is the only sand recommended for above ground pool bases.

A 24-foot diameter pool is the most popular size for a round above ground model, while 15 by 30 feet is a common choice for oval-shaped pools. However, you'll find round sizes everywhere between 8 and 33 feet. Oval pools range up to 21 by 41 feet but can be customized to stretch much longer.

Many wonder though if above ground pools are exclusively used over grass, sand, or soil only and if installing it over concrete is impossible (for fear of it getting punctured). The good news is, yes, you can install your above ground pool on concrete if a sand or soil base is not possible.

Which is better mesh or solid pool cover on above ground pool? ›

Solid covers are more expensive than mesh covers as they are more durable and ensure clean pool water in the spring. Mesh winter covers provide excellent winter protection and are perfect if you live in an area that receives heavy snow fall during winter months.

Stainless steel may be the best. But, steel will be affected by chlorine and may rust eventually. Aluminum does not rust. Aluminum by nature is very soft, unless it is an “alloy,” which would make it too rigid for above-ground pool construction.

Solid covers are more expensive than mesh covers as they are more durable and ensure clean pool water in the spring. Mesh winter covers provide excellent winter protection and are perfect if you live in an area that receives heavy snow fall during winter months.

Aluminum does not tarnish or rust and has an extremely high strength-to-weight ratio. It also becomes stronger and retains its toughness as it gets colder. Aluminum pools will generally last 2 to 3 times as long as a steel pool depending on the models.

The deepest above-ground pool available is the Intex 36-Foot by 16-Foot by 52-Inch Above-Ground Pool. The four-foot depth may not seem like a lot, but in the world of above-ground pools, it's tough to find deeper floors.

To sum up, we highly recommend a gravel above-ground pool foundation, combined with a pool pad, as the best base for an above-ground pool.

Above-ground pools must have a base material in order to withstand many tons of water weight. Mason Sand or Stone Dust is what installers use. Other accessories include Rhino Pad, Armor Guard, and or Liner Shield. These three items are GEO textile materials that protect the pool's liner.

The main disadvantage of an above-ground pool is that it generally adds no value to your home. They also have some of the same problems as in-ground pools, such as water evaporation and maintenance issues.

A fiberglass pool is not prone to growing algae, which is one of the main reasons why this pool is easier to maintain. Anyone who is looking for a pool that doesn't require a lot of maintenance may want to consider going with a fiberglass pool.

Color. “A UV-protected, translucent blue color offers a better balance between heat retention and pool chemical protection,” Dobrica says, adding that a clear cover will warm the pool water the most, but it will also allow more UV rays, which can make chlorine less effective as a disinfectant.

What is the most popular pool surface type? ›

Plaster, a timeless option, is the most common pool surface finish. It's a simple mixture of water, Portland cement, and either marble dust or silica sand.