Above ground pool buying guide

Inflatable above ground pools

Inflatable above ground pools couldn't be easier to install – all you need is an air pump! These pools come in all shapes and sizes so whether your looking for a pool for the little ones or adults, you're sure to find something to meet your needs. The main drawback of these pools, however, is that the pool liner can tear. For this reason, these models are often supplied with a repair kit.

Top ring above ground pools

Top ring pools are so-called as only the top part of the pool is designed to inflate. As these pools are filled, the pressure of the water helps to stabilise the pool and allow it to reach its full height. While you'll need a level surface for any type of above ground pool, it's absolutely essential for a top ring pool. If your surface isn't flat you run the risk of your pool misshaping or even losing water!

Steel frame pools

Steel frame pools are made up of a polyester and PVC liner and a metal structure. To assemble a steel frame pool, you simply need to slide the metal tubes into the top part of the lining and clip them together. More robust than inflatable pools, steel frame pools can stretch up to 7 m2 with a depth of up to 1.6 metres.

Traditional above ground pools

Traditional above ground pools are made up of a liner and a rigid outer structure. This shell, or cladding, can be made of timber, steel, aluminium, plastic or even concrete. Extremely solid but also attractive, traditional above ground pools also come in many different shapes and sizes. These models can even be installed as semi inground pools.

Liner materials

Above ground pools generally feature a PVC liner, the thickness of which determines its strength. The thinnest liners are about 0.2 mm thick while the strongest are 0.6 mm thick. The biggest above ground pools may feature a reinforced liner made up of two layers of PVC sandwiched around a layer of polyester mesh for greater stability and tear resistance.

Pool structure material

Above ground pool structures come in many different materials.

• Timber above ground pools are often chosen for their aesthetic but they are costlier than steel frame pools.

• Steel or aluminium above ground pools are lightweight and offer various finishes including white, silver or even faux wood.

• Concrete above ground pools are incredibly strong but heavy and therefore more difficult to assemble.

• Resin pools are lightweight but sturdy and easy to put together.

Above ground pools usually come with a number of accessories.

• Any above ground pool with a volume over 3 m3 will require a filtration system. These pools are generally equipped with a cartridge filter or a sand filter. The first option is less expensive but also less durable while the second takes up more room but performs better.

• A chlorine dispenser is a small floating accessory designed to hold chlorine tablets so that they dissolve gradually in the water.

• A water test kit is designed to monitor the chlorine and pH level of your pool water.

• A pool mat helps to insulate the base of the pool.

• A pool cover will protect the pool from any debris that could pollute the water.

• A winter cover will prevent impurities from building up in your pool over the cold months.

• A pool brush or even a pool vacuum can be used to clean the pool liner.

• A skimmer net is used to get rid of floating debris.

• A ladder may be required to access above ground pools.

Safety features

Even if your pool isn't particularly deep, above ground pools do still need safety features.  While these safety measures aren't compulsory, they are highly recommended, especially if you have young children.

• safety ladder (with removable treads);

• safety fencing;

• pool alarm or safety cover.

These safety devices should be selected according to the size of your above ground pool and the age of anyone who might have access to the pool. It goes without saying that children must always be monitored while in the pool.

Above ground pool planning permission

The installation of an above ground pool won't usually require planning permission.

The only exceptions will be if your home is in an area of outstanding natural beauty or conservation area or if you live in a listed building.

To help your pool survive the challenges of winter, it is essential to put your pool into winter mode as soon as the water gets below 13°C. Depending on the type of pool you have you will have to choose between leaving the pool outdoors or storing it indoors. Steel frame and inflatable pools are best kept indoors while traditional above ground pools can stay put.

Outdoor winter pool care

If you've decided to winterise your above ground pool outdoors, start by cleaning the pool thoroughly before treating the water with an overwintering pool product. Lower the level of the water then drain and store the filter and pump. Place a few winter floats in the pool or simply toss in a few bottles of water to reduce the pressure of the ice in case of frost. Finally, secure your winter pool cover.

Indoor winter pool care

If you want to take your above ground pool indoors, start by emptying the pool and cleaning the liner using a product designed for this purpose. Leave the pool to dry completely before folding it up and placing it back in its original packaging (if you still have it!). You can then store your pool, filtration system and any other pool accessories indoors in a dry and frost-free spot.