FAQs
How would you advise moving an above ground pool?
Start by taking some pictures of the swimming pool when it is still up. Taking more pictures as you are taking it apart could be a great help in the reinstallation process. Be careful not to leave any parts buried in the dirt or sand and try not to bend or break anything. Metal becomes very brittle when it starts to rust. Disconnect the wall coupling before rolling it up. Doing this without removing the nuts and bolts or wall bar makes it very difficult to roll up and can cause creases that may not come out. It is best not to try and reuse vinyl liners so there are no special considerations there. It is easier to move a sand filter if you first empty the sand. Starting the pool with a clean filter full of clean sand is a good idea. Be careful with the parts and have some help for the heavy lifting and you should be just fine.
What do you recommend, steel walls or aluminum walls?
The aluminum walls don't rust the way steel walls do, but they do tend to corrode and within a couple years. The steel walls will usually start rusting at the bottom where they come in contact with dirt. This is normal and the walls should still last many years. Two other points to remember about making a pool wall last longer, if the liner leaks, patch it or replace it.
Do I need a permit for an above ground pool?
All cities and municipalities are different. Years ago no one required a permit, now it is not that uncommon. If this is a concern for you, check with your local planning and zoning department.
What can I do to keep grass from growing through my vinyl liner?
Before a pool can be installed the ground must be treated for whatever kind of growth you had to clear out. Most importantly, always keep a 2' barrier around the outside of the pool free of any vegetation.
How long does an above ground pool last?
Pools will normally last between 5-15 yrs. It depends on the quality of the pool and the type of dirt the pool is sitting on.
What can I do to make my pool last longer?
First of all, don't let a leaky liner stay in your pool because the water will eat the wall away - either patch it or change it. Second, every time you change the liner examine the inside wall of your pool. If you see any rust, sand it away and spray on some corrosion eliminator. Also, don't sit on or jump off the pool rails.
How do I get the most life out of my liner?
Start by being very careful with hand vacuums. Scraping them against the edge of the pool will cause little holes around the outer edge. Limit the use of automatic cleaners, running them only when the pool needs cleaning and not letting them sit in one spot for to long of a time. Most cleaners will have one or two spots where they tend to get stuck or hung up. These are usually the places where holes first develop. Be careful with the chemicals you use. Make sure they are for vinyl liners and be sure whatever you put directly into the pool dissolves before it hits the bottom. Eventually the part of the liner that is above water level and exposed to the most afternoon sun will start to dry rot. This starts with just a little discoloring and many years later may start to tear or rip. You can either try to shade that area or assume that when that happens it's just time to replace the liner.
What is the best way to light my pool?
Through the wall lights for above ground pools are the most popular. The light replaces your existing pool return and acts as a pool return, water flow director and light. The second option is the over the wall version. You simply mount it under any top rail. They are usually less expensive and a lot easier to install. Another option is floating solar lights. They are the least expensive and a great safety feature. You can also surround your pool with some solar yard lights.