| So which kind of pool--above-ground or | | | | - smaller than in-ground pools, which means less |
| in-ground--is right for you? Whether you choose | | | | space to swim and less capacity for number of |
| an above-ground or an in-ground pool depends on | | | | swimmers |
| your current as well as long-term needs, and your | | | | - usually considered less esthetically pleasing |
| specific situation. You can make your final decision | | | | - one depth only; no deep end |
| once you've weighed all the pros and cons for | | | | - not as sturdy, strong, durable, or long-lasting as |
| each type of pool. | | | | in-ground pools |
| There are a number of important factors to | | | | In-ground pools |
| consider with respect to choosing either an | | | | Pros: |
| above-ground or an in-ground pool, such as | | | | - considered a permanent home improvement |
| budget and price, the size of your lot or yard, the | | | | and a long-term investment, adding value to your |
| time and money it will take for maintenance, | | | | home for potential buyers |
| installation, and more. Always ask plenty of | | | | - generally viewed as more esthetically pleasing |
| questions to pool companies and prospective | | | | - strong, durable, and longer-lasting |
| contractors regarding any pool in which you might | | | | - in-ground pools are larger than above-ground |
| be interested; questions about total price, | | | | pools, with multiple depths, and a deep end |
| maintenance, installation, and service. | | | | - there are many different types of in-ground |
| That said, let's delve into some of the particulars | | | | pools to choose from, most notably concrete |
| with respect to the pros and cons of both | | | | (with different finishing options), vinyl liner, and |
| above-ground and in-ground pools. | | | | fiberglass |
| Above-ground pools | | | | - perfect for large lots and yards with lots of |
| Pros: | | | | extra space |
| - inexpensive--almost always significantly cheaper | | | | Cons: |
| than in-ground pools | | | | - often much more expensive than above-ground |
| - portable--you can easily take the pool down at | | | | pools |
| any time as needed. If you move, the pool can | | | | - longer installation time than with above-ground |
| come with you, or you can give it away or sell it, | | | | pools |
| or even leave it for the buyers | | | | - not portable--in-ground pools are permanent |
| - quick installation--above-ground pools are much | | | | additions to homes, and a long-term commitment |
| quicker to set up than in-ground pools. You can be | | | | is required |
| swimming a day or two after installation begins | | | | - not appropriate for smaller yards |
| - selection--there is a wide assortment of options | | | | - keep in mind that pool maintenance will vary |
| as far as the siding, decking, pattern, color, size, | | | | depending on the type of in-ground pool you |
| and shape of the pool are concerned | | | | choose |
| - above-ground pools are perfect for | | | | As you can see, there are a lot of factors to |
| homeowners (or even home renters) with smaller | | | | take into considerations when deciding between |
| yards and lots as they require much less space | | | | an above-ground and an in-ground pool. Figure out |
| than in-ground pools | | | | what you need, weigh your options, and do some |
| - maintenance generally is not time-consuming | | | | research to find out which kind of pool is the best |
| Cons: | | | | one for you and your family. |