Above-ground pools are typically made of various materials that are durable and long-lasting. These materials can include steel, aluminum, resin, and even a combination of these. These pools usually feature a metal frame structure that provides stability and support. The walls of the pool can be made of either steel or resin.
Steel is a common material used in the construction of above-ground pools. It is known for its strength and durability. The walls of steel above-ground pools are made by joining individual sheets of galvanized steel together. These sheets are then coated with a protective layer to prevent rust and corrosion. Steel pools are robust and can withstand the weight of water without buckling or collapsing.
Resin is another material commonly used in the construction of above-ground pools. It is a type of plastic that provides excellent resistance to corrosion and is low-maintenance. Resin above-ground pools have walls made of injection-molded resin components. These components are designed to interlock and create a sturdy structure. Resin pools are also resistant to UV rays, which protects them from fading or becoming brittle over time.
Some above-ground pools use a combination of both steel and resin. These pools often have a steel frame and resin walls. The metal frame provides the core strength and stability, while the resin walls offer resistance against corrosion and provide a smoother finish.
Furthermore, the pool liners, which are responsible for holding the water, are typically made of vinyl. These liners are crucial for maintaining water tightness and preventing leaks. Vinyl liners are smooth, flexible, and resistant to chemicals and UV rays. They are available in various colors and patterns, allowing pool owners to customize the look of their above-ground pool.
Overall, above-ground pools are constructed with materials specifically chosen for their durability, strength, and resistance to corrosion. This ensures that these pools can withstand the demands of holding water and provide a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for users.
Best Above-Ground Pools of 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
Bestway: Steel Pro MAX 15' X 48" Above Ground Pool Set - 4231 Gallon, Outdoor Family Pool, Corrosion & Puncture Resistant, Includes Filter, Pump, Ladder & Cover
-
All ages will enjoy swimming and splashing all summer long in this 15-foot by 48-inch round above-ground pool; Includes a model 58388E 1,000-gallon filter pump, a ladder, and a pool cover
-
Built with a steel frame that is held together with FrameLink System to provide remarkable strength and connection
-
DuraPlus enhance 3-play PVC liner with an elegant design that provides a support band for additional stability to the pool wall for ultimate durability
-
Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage; No tools are required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
INTEX 26355EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 18ft x 9ft x 52in – Includes 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture & Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
-
EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind.Age grade: 6+.Age Grading: 6+
-
EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR pools are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed
-
RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
-
SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
-
KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26643EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
-
REMOVABLE LADDER – The Ultra XTR pool includes a removable ladder that has a coated steel frame to prevent rust; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Bestway Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover
-
All ages will enjoy swimming in the 24-foot by 12-foot by 52-inch above-ground pool set, including a model 58498E 1,500 GPH sand filter pump, a ChemConnect dispenser, a ladder, and a pool cover
-
Steel frame construction increases durability and is held together with Seal and Lock System to provide remarkable strength and connection
-
TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner provides a reliable support band for additional stability to the pool wall for all summer fun
-
Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage with no tools required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
-
Disclaimer: Please review your HOA rules and restrictions before purchasing the product; Not all housing agencies permit private above-ground pools
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Bestway Power Steel 18' x 9' x 48" Oval Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover
-
All ages will enjoy swimming all summer long in the 18-foot by 9-foot by 48-inch above-ground pool; Includes a model 58390E 1,500 GPH filter pump, a ladder, and a convenient secure pool cover
-
Built with a steel frame that is held together with Seal and Lock System to provide remarkable strength and connection
-
TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner provides a support band for additional stability to the pool wall for ultimate durability
-
Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage; No tools are required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Funsicle 16ft x 48in Round Oasis Above Ground Pool, with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder
-
LUXURY POOL EXPERIENCE: Ideal for up to 8 people – Perfect for families, socializing & swimming
-
SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
-
MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
-
2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1500 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
-
CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Funsicle 14ft x 48in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder
-
STYLISH LUXURY POOL: Perfect for families, socializing & swimming, with space for 6 to 7 people
-
SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
-
MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
-
2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1000 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
-
CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Bestway Hydrium 15 Feet by 48 Inches Steel Wall Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Accessories, Sand Filter Pump & Chemical Dispenser, Gray
-
Family-sized 15-foot by 48-inch round pool provides a place for kids and adults to enjoy summer fun
-
Ultra-durable galvanized steel wall, top platform, and supports provide superior rust and corrosion resistance
-
Embossed, textured woodgrain pattern on outer wall with realistic Prismatic Stone printing on the inner liner; Ultra-Violet coating protects liner from discoloration and cracking
-
Can stay assembled all year long without damage for seasonal convenience; Easy, 3-tool DIY setup; Screwdriver, wrench, and knife needed for assembly
-
Includes pool, sand filter, skimmer, ladder, ground cloth, pool cover, ChemConnect chemical dispenser
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Funsicle 22ft x 52in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder
-
STYLISH LUXURY POOL: Perfect for families, socializing & swimming, with space for up to 11 people
-
SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
-
MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
-
2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1500 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
-
CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in – Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
-
EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind
-
EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR pools are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed
-
RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
-
SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
-
KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26647EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
-
REMOVABLE LADDER – The Ultra XTR pool includes a removable ladder that has a coated steel frame to prevent rust; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection
What is the recommended pH level for above-ground pools?
The recommended pH level for above-ground pools is generally between 7.4 and 7.6. This range ensures that the water is slightly alkaline, which is ideal for swimmer comfort and to prevent corrosion or scaling on pool equipment. It is important to regularly monitor and adjust the pH level to maintain proper water balance.
What is the average water capacity of above-ground pools?
The average water capacity of above-ground pools is typically between 5,000 and 10,000 gallons. However, this can vary depending on the specific size and shape of the pool, as well as its depth and other factors.
How to protect an above-ground pool from UV rays?
To protect an above-ground pool from UV rays, you can follow these steps:
- Use a pool cover: Invest in a pool cover specially designed to block UV rays. Look for covers made from materials like UV-resistant vinyl or polyethylene that have a high UV protection factor (UPF). This will not only shield the pool water from UV rays but also help in retaining heat.
- Set up a shade structure: Erecting a shade structure above your above-ground pool can provide effective protection against direct sunlight. Options include pergolas, umbrellas, or shade sails. Choose materials that have UV-blocking properties to ensure maximum protection.
- Apply UV-resistant pool paint: Some pool paints are specifically formulated to provide UV protection. Covering the interior walls and bottom of the pool with such paint can help block UV rays and prevent damage to the pool's surface caused by prolonged sun exposure.
- Install a sun sail or canopy: Sun sails or canopies are another great option for UV protection. These can be attached to the pool's perimeter or nearby structures to offer shade and block UV rays.
- Use portable shade umbrellas: If a permanent structure is not feasible, consider using portable shade umbrellas or even beach umbrellas around the pool area. These can be moved easily as needed to provide shade to the pool and swimmers.
- Plant trees or use natural barriers: Strategic landscaping with tall trees or shrubs can help create a natural barrier against UV rays. Select trees that provide dense foliage and ample shade, and position them strategically to shield the pool area.
- Utilize sunscreen for the pool: While UV protection methods for the pool itself are important, don't forget to protect yourself and other swimmers. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (with at least an SPF of 30) before entering the pool to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Remember, UV protection is essential not only for the water in the pool but also for any poolside furniture, equipment, or accessories that can be damaged or faded by the sun. By employing these measures, you can maintain the quality and longevity of your above-ground pool while ensuring a safe swimming environment for everyone.
