| One of the first questions every above ground | | | | Keep in mind that aluminum is always better than |
| pool shopper wants to know is: | | | | regular metal in terms of its longevity. Also, |
| How much does an above ground pool cost? | | | | because pool walls are generally made of metal, |
| Such a question is certainly understandable but is | | | | it's an excellent idea to have a stainless-steel panel |
| very difficult to answer. I will do my best here to | | | | as part of the wall where the skimmer and return |
| break down the cost of different types of pools | | | | are located. This prevents oxidation in that area |
| so you have a realistic idea as to what to expect | | | | and can greatly extend the life of the pool's |
| when you start the shopping process. | | | | structure. Metal pools generally last 3-15 years. |
| 'Wal-mart' Style Pools: These 'set and fill' units | | | | Resin/Polymer: Although all traditional above |
| usually cost $100-$500, and typically last 1-2 | | | | ground pools have metal walls, resin and polymer |
| years. Although these simple above ground | | | | structures (uprights and top rails) have entered |
| structures(or 'blobs' as some might say) are | | | | the market over the past 15 years or so and |
| extremely popular and affordable across the | | | | have had a huge impact on aesthetics as well as |
| United States, in many ways they've hurt the | | | | longevity. This is due to the fact that resin does |
| image of the swimming pool industry because of | | | | not rust like metal will. In most cases, resin above |
| their poor quality/longevity and the fact that they | | | | ground pools cost $4000-$12,000 installed. |
| are very, very hard to keep clean and maintain. | | | | Polymer/Resin pools generally will last 8-20 years. |
| This stems from their very low-grade pump and | | | | ** Note: Pricing an above ground pool has two |
| filters which, simply stated, just aren't adequate | | | | components: The cost of the pool kit and then |
| enough to keep the water pretty, clear, and clean. | | | | the cost of the installation. Depending on the |
| Metal: Although the quality of the metal used in | | | | installer, most charge anywhere from |
| traditional above ground pools can be a major | | | | $1000-$3500 for a basic installation of a traditional |
| price driver, most will cost $2000-$10,000 installed, | | | | above ground pool. Also, price ranges above do |
| depending on the size and number of options. | | | | not include any pool decking. |