A pool not only increases the value of a property but it’s also fun to have. However, not all yards are built to install in-ground pools.
So, if your yard was not built for an in-ground pool, you can go ahead with an above-ground option.
But the question is, how long do above-ground pools last? In this piece, we try to address this concern and the factors associated with it.
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Contents
How long do above ground pools last?
The quick answers will be 10-20 years.
However, multiple factors come into play to determine the longevity of your pool. These include but are not limited to the type of filter, liner, frame, the climate you live on, and maintenance.
Let’s look at these factors in-depth.
Factors Affecting the Longevity of Above Ground Pools
Pool liner
Primarily vinyl liners are used to line the bottom and sides of the pools (except inflatable pools) for them to last longer. Vinyl liners come in multiple types, including overlap, universal, beaded, and expandable varieties.
Though most of these liners give a similar quality and last for the same amount of time, people choose the different options for the style.
Besides, liner thickness is an essential factor. Thick liners last for longer. Ideally, a good quality pool liner should last between 3-10 years.
Climatic conditions
The climate has an impact on the pool and determines how long it will last. The frequent weather or seasonal changes and other external factors also impact a pool.
With frequent storms and weather changes, the pool liner suffers greater wear and tear to its structure. Besides, scorching summer followed by freezing winter also negatively impacts the longevity of the pool.
Filter
A good quality pump or filter system will help your pool last longer. Though the filter does not directly impact the pool’s longevity, it keeps the water clean and the filter free from debris, which keeps the pool safe for longer.
Generally, the three most popular filters are used in an above ground pool:
Cartridge filters
As the name suggests, this system has a cartridge inside the filter that catches the debris as it passes through.
Sand filter
The filters use sand, and the water is pushed through the pump and allows the sand filters to remove the debris before the water is pushed back.
Diatomaceous earth
This filter functions like the sand filter. However, this filter catches even the tiniest of debris that sand misses.
Maintenance
The most essential factor for determining the health of your above-ground pool and ensuring that it lasts for long is maintenance. The pool must be cleaned daily, and water vacuuming the debris is essential. Many people opt for a robotic pool cleaner to get a more thorough cleaning.
Here are a few steps that you can take to maintain your above ground pool better:
Get a sump pump
Though this will not directly protect your pool, it will give the required protection to your house. If your above-ground pool leaks, the sump pump in your basement will prevent any form of water damage and eliminate the risk of mildew or mold growth.
Regular shock treatments
A shock treatment is basically treating the pool with a powder form of chlorine to get rid of algae and bacteria. Ideally, such a treatment should be done weekly to oxidize the contaminants and allow the chlorine to do its work better.
Monitoring the pH level
Your above-ground pool needs to have an ideal pH level for which you have to check the pool frequently. If the level is beyond 7.2- 7.6, it will reduce the effectiveness of the chemicals you put in the pool. Thus, digital pool readers must be kept handy for this purpose.
Ensure proper circulation
Circulation or continuous water flow is vital for the pool to function well. This is one of the most crucial steps for pool maintenance.
To ensure the proper flow of water, the following factors be considered:
Jet Angle: The water will first get in the machine for filtration and then enter the pool. This job is done by the jets. However, not many people think of angling the jet properly.
However, doing this has its advantage. Some parts of the pool are tricky to clean as the vacuum pumps won’t reach these areas. These parts can be cleaned well by angling the jets.
Cleaning the pump basket and skimmer: If the skimmer clogs, it will not clean the water well; the same applies to the pump basket. So it’s advisable to clean them regularly, if not they must be cleaned at least once in three days.
Pump and filter operations: The pump distributes the water, and the filter cleans the water. Thus these pieces of equipment must be in the proper place. Without adequate water circulation, algae will grow and therefore affect the quality of the pool water.
Ideally, the pump should run for 8-12 hours a day during summer and for 4-6 hours during winter.
Many people feel that running the system at night is cost-effective, and you don’t need to hire maintenance people for this.
How Long Do Above Ground Pools Last Depending On A Solar Basket
A solar basket not only protects your pool from rain and debris but also helps heat your pool using solar energy and reduces evaporation. In fact, a solar basket eliminates thermal loss by 95%. Thus a solar basket turns out to be highly cost-effective.
The longevity of the pool also depends on the type of above-ground pool you have installed. The frame structure determines the type of pool, while other elements like liner, filter system, ladder, or pool deck can be added later.
Type of pool frames and for how long they last
Steel frame
Though these are sturdily made from galvanized steel, the steel frame heats, and warps under the sun.
These pools last for 5-10 years on average.
Hybrid pool
This is a combination of steel and resin pools. Thus they have the best of both worlds, the steel parts provide additional support, and the resin makes it easy to maintain the pool.
These pools last for 10-20 years.
Resin pools
As the name suggests, these pools are made from resin and are thus resistant to the damaging effect of sunlight and water. Thus these pools don’t gather rust or corrosion quickly.
The average longevity of these pools is between 5-10 years.
Inflatable pools
These are the most budget-friendly above-ground pools and can be a fun addition to the backyard.
If maintained well, these last for 1-5 years.
Conclusion
So, as it can be regarded, an above-ground pool can last for only one season if it has a cheap construction and is not cared for properly. However, a good quality pool can last for 20 years or more under the proper weather conditions.