In-Ground Pools vs. Above-Ground Pools

There are two main types of pools: in-ground pools and above-ground pools. The main difference is in their names: one is in the ground and the other is constructed above it. In-ground pools are permanently installed in your backyard, right in the ground. Above-ground pools are built without any digging, and in some cases can be taken apart and put back together. When it’s time to get a pool, the common debate is in-ground pool vs. above-ground pool, so how do you decide which one to get?

The first step to answering that is determining which one your property can support. Then even if your property can hold an in-ground pool or an above-ground pool, they both have their pros and cons. When it comes to homes that can have either, there are also several other features and factors to consider. To help you decide which one works best for you, we’ve broken it down.

In-Ground Pools vs. Above-Ground Pools: Check Your Property

When it comes to your property, there are two things you need to worry about before you pick your pool. Whether your property can have a pool, and if your residential zoning district will allow one. For both in-ground and above-ground pools, there are physical limitations to a property that may stop you from having one or the other.

Property Limits

In-ground pools have certain limitations that make it impossible to have them. Because they go into the ground, that ground has to be dug up. If your property, specifically your backyard, isn’t large enough to support the size of the in-ground pool or the amount you have to dig up, you can’t have an in-ground pool.

That doesn’t automatically mean you can have an above-ground pool, though. If your backyard has pipes running through it, such as sewage lines, and you can’t put down an above-ground pool without putting pressure on those pipes, you can’t have a pool in your backyard either. You may have to try your front yard or expand your property.

Zoning Laws

Every town has its own zoning laws. They each have specific requirements and rules regarding what you can have on your property, how it can be installed, and when it can be installed. For example, in the city of Wilkes-Barre, an area we cover, you cannot legally get an above-ground pool “over 30 inches in depth,” or an in-ground pool “over 18 inches” in water depth without a permit. You have to set up an appointment with your office of planning and zoning, then present a site plan drawing along with your zoning permit application.

We’re used to this, so we can help you apply for it with tips and advice. For example, there are places in Wilkes-Barre where you need to have a fence around your property or your pool if you’re going to build one. It’s important to check with your local zoning office to be safe.

In-Ground Pools vs. Above-Ground Pools: Factors and Features

When it comes to the pros and cons of each, comparing and contrasting the costs and the features you get can help you decide which is the better option.

In-Ground Pools

On average, in-ground pools cost more than above-ground pools. This is because of the installation process and the larger size of in-ground pools. This also leads to in-ground pools taking longer to construct and install. In exchange, you have a pool that will last for years.

If you invest in a fiberglass pool, it will last years, even decades without needing to be repaired, barring some unforeseen event. Vinyl pools last 10 to 25 years before the lining needs to be replaced, but a fiberglass pool never needs to be replaced. You have a pool that will last forever.

An in-ground pool is also an excellent way to increase your home’s property value. It’s an investment you can enjoy.

Above-Ground Pools

Our above-ground pool brands are nothing but top-notch. They’re beautiful and can add significant value to your property, depending on the one you go with. Also, if your property isn’t flat enough for an in-ground pool, there are several above-ground pools that can be partially dug into your property and built at a slant, adding personality to your yard.

While most of our in-ground pools have more room to swim, our above-ground pools are still perfect for your backyard oasis. They give swimmers ample room at a lower cost. The time it takes to install them depends on your property and the brand you chose, but more often than not, they install faster than in-ground pools.

See Aqua Leisure Pools and Spas to Find the Pool For You

If you’re undecided or unsure about what kind of pool you can have, let alone what you want, Aqua Leisure Pools and Spas is the best place to come. We’ll answer your questions as best we can and help you find an answer to the age-old debate of in-ground pool vs. above-ground pool. With our multiple showrooms, you can see what some of our products look like. Contact us today to get started.

Posted by Aqua Leisure Pools & Spas in Pools