6 Points to Consider When Choosing Between an Inground or Above Ground Pool

6 Points to Consider When Choosing Between an Inground or Above Ground Pool

Pools are experiencing a surge in popularity: there’s nothing like a lazy afternoon by the pool on a summer’s day. If you’re lucky enough to own a residence with a yard, you are no doubt tempted to have one installed. But should you have it built above ground or dug in?

 

When it comes to purchasing a pool, there is lots to choose from and all different models come with their own set of features. Here is some advice to help you decide between an above or inground pool.

What’s Your Budget?

It’s a well-known fact that inground pools cost much more money than their above ground counterparts. While prices for the latter start at about $3,000, the amount for an inground pool is generally seven times more—exponentially more for a full stainless steel or sprayed concrete model—approximately $2,000. Therefore, if your budget is limited, carefully think it over before having an inground pool installed.

How Much Space Do You Have?

An above ground pool will eat up a large part of your yard since different circular models have a diameter that varies between 12 and 17 feet, and oval models are even wider. Moreover, they are typically four feet high, creating a major eyesore in your outdoor space. If you would rather avoid ruining your view of the backyard, your best option is an inground pool. In fact, their dimensions can be customized to your desired size, a definite advantage. They also come in all manner of forms, from rectangular to kidney-shaped, an attractive choice when you have limited space. 

Are You in a Hurry?

An above ground pool will generally take only one day to erect while an inground pool will require at least 15 days, if the weather is on your side. That’s way longer! It may take even more time if you have opted for a high-end sprayed-concrete model. However, if your budget allows, a stainless steel inground pool—still relatively rare in Quebec—can be delivered to your home and installed in one piece, shortening the wait.

Does It Have to Be Durable?

Climatic conditions will impact your pool’s lifespan. Quebec winters can be very harsh on outdoor water structures, so carefully consider this before you make your purchase. Inground pools tolerate freezing temperatures better, and full stainless-steel models even more so since this material is impervious to temperature fluctuations.

Is the Look a Top Priority for You?

There was a time when inground pools were mainly considered a luxury, reserved for the very wealthy who could afford such an expensive toy. Their stylishness and aesthetic appeal made them the pinnacle of good taste. Although inground pools remain a high-priced item—especially when compared to equivalent above ground models—they are now available in a wide range of liners and patio finishes (steel, aluminum, resin or wood) all more elegant than the next. An oval shaped above ground pool will help your backyard standout from the neighbour’s. A semi-inground pool is likewise an excellent and visually attractive option.

Are You Sensitive to the Cold?

There is no better way of cooling off on a hot day than a dip in a pool, but if all you do in the water is shiver, then you may come to regret your purchase. The water in above ground pools is more likely to cool down or heat up as the ambient temperature rises and falls. Conversely, inground pools retain heat far more effectively even though they take longer to warm up. And for those chillier days, there is always the water heater! Solar covers, in addition to being an environmentally friendly choice since they reduce water evaporation, can also be great heat preservers. 

 Are you still wavering between an inground and an above ground pool? Visit stores that specialize in the sale and installation of pools to see the different models in person. It should then be easier to decide.

RE/MAX Québec

By RE/MAX Québec

By RE/MAX Québec

A leader in the real estate industry since 1982, the RE/MAX network brings together the most efficient brokers.