Choosing a Pool: The Basics
Choosing a pool is no easy decision – these days there’s a swimming pool that’s right for virtually every individual or family looking to add the distinct lifestyle advantage of a backyard vacation to their home or property.
But how do you decide between above ground or inground swimming pool styles?
The answer isn’t easy, because there are considerations that make each pool an attractive option. Generally, the above ground versus inground decision relies on four basic factors:
- Budget: While either type of pool can add both aesthetic and intrinsic value to your home, there is a significant price difference between most above ground and inground options. Above ground pools generally cost much less than traditional concrete, fiberglass or vinyl liner inground pools.
- Style: Styles of above ground pools have come a long way over the years, offering strong new weather-resistant materials, new designs, and even depth variations in “on-ground” versions, the inground pool style is the most versatile option for customized shapes, sizes and depths.
- Size: When adding a swimming pool, you must consider two areas: The available lot space on your property for the addition of a pool, and the area of the pool itself in relation to that space. How will the pool look once installed? Are there any local zoning limitations to consider? Will the pool be a pleasing addition to your existing lot, or will it completely dominate your available space?
- Value: Here there is little distinction between above ground and inground swimming pools, with each having distinct benefits that can maintain or even increase the value of your property. Above ground pools can be dismantled, can move if you do, and can even be re-sold if you desire. Inground pools are permanent additions to a space that can add lasting value to a property whether you stay or decide to move.
While these four considerations are a strong starting point, there’s much more you can learn by simply consulting one of our demo homesite consultants.
In fact, let’s leave you with one final consideration: Always seek out an established swimming pool expert to help guide your decision—one with professional installers, numerous references, guaranteed workmanship, and a track record of success that features examples you can see in person before taking the swimming pool plunge.
- Cindy Perdue
