Dreaming of a backyard pool but torn between inground luxury and above ground practicality? Your choice hinges on budget, installation complexity, and long term goals. Inground pools offer custom designs and permanence, while above ground pools deliver affordability and quick setup.
But how do costs, maintenance, and climate impact your decision? In this blog, we break down upfront expenses, installation timelines, and resale value for both options including hybrid semi inground pools. Whether you’re a homeowner seeking a lifetime investment or a renter craving seasonal fun, discover which pool type fits your backyard and lifestyle. Dive in to make a splash without the buyer’s remorse!
Cost Comparison: Inground vs Above Ground Pool Installation
Planning a pool and knowing the cost of installation is important in selecting the appropriate choice that fits your budget. Let’s analyze the cost of inground pools, above ground pools, and the combination semi inground pools so you can make an informed choice.
Inground Pools: $35,000, $100,000+
Inground pools are a long-term investment, with costs varying by material:
- Concrete/Gunite: $50,000, $100,000+ (most durable, fully customizable).
- Fiberglass: $45,000, $85,000 (quicker install, low maintenance).
- Vinyl-Liner: $35,000, $65,000 (budget-friendly but requires liner replacements every 7, 10 years).
Additional Costs:
- Excavation ($5,000, $15,000) for uneven terrain.
- Permits ($500, $2,000) depending on local regulations.
- Landscaping/decking ($5,000 $20,000) for a polished finish.
Above Ground Pools: $1,500, $15,000
These are ideal for budget conscious homeowners or renters:
- Steel Frame: $1,500, $5,000 (affordable but prone to rust).
- Resin Frame: $3,000, $8,000 (rust proof and longer lasting).
- Hybrid (Steel + Resin): $5,000 $15,000 (best durability).
Hidden Costs:
- Leveling the ground ($500, $2,000).
- Decking ($1,000 $10,000) for enhanced aesthetics.
- Removal/Replacement: Most last 7, 15 years before needing upgrades.
Semi Inground Pools: $10,000, $30,000
A compromise between the two extremes, partially inground for support and aesthetics:
- Suited for sloping yard lots.
- Resin or aluminum materials provide greater durability than regular above ground pools.
Key Takeaway:
While inground pools offer stability and luxury, above ground and semi-inground offer ease of mobility for budgets that are tight. Always think ahead to long-term costs like maintenance, repair, and potential resale.
Installation Process: Time and Complexity
Installation time and complexity differ greatly between above ground and inground pools. Here’s what to expect:
Inground Pools: 3 Weeks 3 Months
- Permitting and Design (2, 4 Weeks): All custom designs require engineering plans and approval.
- Excavation (1, 2 Weeks): Heavy machinery digs the pool shape; rocky soil adds time/cost.
- Construction (2, 12 Weeks):
4. Concrete: 8, 12 weeks (curing time included).
5. Fiberglass/Vinyl: 3, 6 weeks (prefabricated shells speed up construction).
6. Finishing (1, 2 Weeks): Decking, electrical work, and landscaping.
Challenges:
- Weather delays (rain, freezing temps).
- Access issues in tight backyards.
- Strict inspections for safety compliance.
Above Ground Pools: 1 Day, 1 Week
- Site Prep (1,2 Days): Leveling the ground and laying a base (sand or pavers).
- Assembly (1,3 Days):
3. DIY friendly kits (steel/resin frames) take a weekend.
4. Professional installs ensure stability in 1,3 days.
5. Filling & Setup (1 Day): Water delivery and chemical balancing.
DIY Tips:
- Rent a tamper to compact the base.
- Use a pool cove to protect the liner.
Semi Inground Pools: 1, 3 Weeks
- Minimal excavation required for partial burial.
- Structural integrity advised with professional installation.
Final Note:
Inground pools demand patience and professional services, whereas above ground pools offer a quicker, do it yourself option. Choose according to your time schedule, budget, and long-term vision.
Click here for get free estimate with Hipools in Gorgia
Longevity and Durability
When buying a pool, longevity and durability are key factors that influence long-term value. The materials and the quality of construction determine if your pool is an ephemeral fad or a decades-long investment.
Inground Pools: Durable to Last 20, 50+ Years
Inground pools are designed to be permanent, and their lifespans vary based on material:
- Concrete/Gunite Pools:
- Lifespan: 50+ years if well maintained.
- Durability: Weathering soil and extreme weather are no match for reinforced steel and thick concrete shells.
- Maintenance: Requires resurfacing every 10, 15 years ($10,000–$20,000).
- Fiberglass Pools:
- Lifespan: 25, 30 years.
- Durability: Non porous gelcoat finish resists algae and cracks.
- Limitations: Limited to pre-molded shapes; improper installation can cause structural issues.
- Vinyl-Liner Pools:
- Lifespan: 15–20 years (liners replaced every 7,10 years).
- Affordability: Lower upfront cost but higher long-term upkeep.
Factors Affecting Lifespan:
- Regular maintenance (…, pH balancing, winterizing).
- Climate (freeze thaw cycles damage concrete, UV rays degrade liners).
- Professional installation to prevent leaks or structural flaws.
Click here for information about Why Is My Swimming Pool pH Level So Important?
Above Ground Pools: 7, 15 Years of Seasonal Use
These pools prioritize affordability over permanence:
- Steel-Frame Pools:
- Lifespan: 7, 12 years.
- Rust Risk: Prone to corrosion, especially in humid climates.
- Resin-Frame Pools:
- Lifespan: 10, 15 years.
- Advantage: Rust-proof and UV resistant, perfect for extended use.
Extending Longevity:
- Make use of a pool cover to decrease exposure to UV.
- Replace liners in a timely manner to avoid damaging the frame.
- Don’t use abrasive cleaning devices that scratch surfaces.
Semi Inground Pools: A Hybrid Solution
Partially submerged for support, these need the final 15,25 years with aluminum or resin. They are ideal for sloping gardens but should be installed professionally.
Lifespan Comparison Table
| Pool Type | Material | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Inground | Concrete | 50+ years |
| Inground | Fiberglass | 25–30 years |
| Inground | Vinyl Liner | 15–20 years |
| Over Ground | Steel Frame | 7–12 years |
| Above Ground | Resin Frame | 10–15 years |
| Semi-Inground | Aluminum/Resin | 15–25 years |
Key Takeaway: Inground pools provide unparalleled long-term durability but come with a lot of maintenance. Above ground pools are a good value for short-term use, while semi-inground pools are the best of both worlds.
4. Maintenance and Upkeep
Maintenance of a pool is a never-ending task, and both inground and above ground solutions have extremely variable costs. Here’s what to expect:
Inground Pools: More Costly, More Complex Maintenance
- Chemical Costs:
- Increased water capacity equals higher chlorine, pH stabilizers, and algaecides ($80 ,$150/month).
- Saltwater systems reduce chemicals but need $200–$700 annual cell replacement.
2. Maintenance & Repairs:
- Weekly vacuuming, skimming, and filtering (2, 4 hours/week).
- Crack repairs ($500, $5,000) or liner replacement ($4,000, $10,000).
3. Winterizing:
- Professional draining, antifreeze, and cover installation ($300, $800).
- Necessary in freezing weather to prevent freezing damage.
Above Ground Pools: Less Costly and Less Involved
- Liner Care:
- Liner replacements every 5, 8 years ($300,$2,000).
- Small tears are fixed with patch kits ($20,$50).
2. Winterizing:
- Drain water under skimmer, add antifreeze, and cover ($50–$200 DIY).
- Lightweight covers are easier to handle compared to inground ones.
3. Chemical Costs:
- Lower volume reduces chemical use ($30–$80/month).
Annual Maintenance Cost Comparison
| Expense | Inground Pool | Above Ground Pool |
|---|---|---|
| Chemicals | $960,$1,800 | $360,$960 |
| Repairs | $500,$5,000 | $100,$1,000 |
| Winterizing | $300,$800 | $50,$200 |
| Total/Year | $1,760,$7,600 | $510,$2,160 |
Note Tip: Use robotic cleaners ($600, $1,500) to reduce manual work for inground pools.
Aesthetics and Customization
Your pool design determines the look of your backyard, and even the property value of your home. Here is how inground and above ground pools compare in terms of aesthetics:
Inground Pools: Unlimited Luxury
- Custom Shapes: Freeform, geometric, or lagoon style designs.
- High End Finishes: Glass tile mosaics, pebbletec, or dark plaster for a tropical look.
- Options:
- Infinity edges ($15,000, $30,000) for resort look.
- Built-in spas, tanning ledges, and waterfalls.
- LED lighting and self closing lids.
- Landscaping Incorporation:
- Ring with stone patios, outdoor kitchens, and fire pits.
- Use plants like grasses or palms as ornamental plants to provide additional privacy.
Above Ground Pools: Creativity Within Limits
Design constraints: Typically round or oval; sizes seldom more than 18’x33′.
- Options:
- Enclose with custom decking ($5,000, $15,000) with built-in seating.
- Partially buried for a semi-inground look.
- Add LED lighting or water accents ($500, $3,000)
Landscaping Hacks:
- Place tall shrubs or lattice screens to hide walls.
- Utilize colorful furniture and umbrellas to achieve a “staycation” atmosphere.
Case Study: An inground pool imitation using an above ground pool that is $10,000 with a wrap-around deck and pergola can replicate a luxury inground setup at 1/3 the cost.
Final Takeaway: Inground pools are the ultimate in customization, and better budget friendly attractiveness is attained with smart upgrades for above ground pools.
Property Value Impact
A pool’s impact on your home’s value depends on its type, location, and the buyer’s preferences. Let’s observe how inground and above ground pools affect resale value.
Inground Pools: A Luxury Asset in Warm Climates
- Value Enhancement: In states like Florida, Arizona, or Southern California, inground pools can increase home value by 5–10%, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
- Buyer Appeal: It’s seen as a high-end feature, especially with high-end finishes (…, infinity edges, saltwater systems).
- Target Markets:
- Warm Climates: Pools are a virtual necessity in luxury homes.
- Suburban Families: Attract buyers who seek staycation homes.
Exceptions:
- Cold climates (…, Minnesota, Michigan), where pools are a turn off because of maintenance costs and infrequent use.
- Small yards in which the pool dominates outdoor space.
Above Ground Pools: Rarely Add Value
- Viewed as Temporary: Buyers view them as personal conveniences, not investments.
- Potential Liabilities:
- Costly removal ($500, $3,000) if buyers don’t want the pool.
- Older models may signal neglect or safety risks (…, unstable frames).
- Neutral Impact: A well-maintained above ground pool with a deck might appeal to first-time buyers but rarely increases listing prices.
Note Tip:
If selling soon, invest in landscaping or outdoor living areas instead of a pool.
Which Is Right for You? Key Decision Factors
The choice between an above ground and inground pool ultimately depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Here’s a step by step guide:
1. Assess Your Budget
- Inground Pools: Ideal if you have $35,000+ to invest and will be in your home 10+ years.
- Above Ground Pools: Excellent for budgets under $15,000 or renters looking for a temporary solution.
2. Consider Your Yard
- Small Backyards:
- Inground: Opt for a plunge pool (10’x20′) or lap pool.
- Above Ground: Go for rounded round shapes: 12’–18′ diameter.
- Sloped Terrain: Semi-inground pools would be stable at a lower cost than full inground.
3. Climate & Usage
- Warm Climates: Inground pools have a tendency to maximize ROI since they can be utilized throughout the year.
- Seasonal Use: Above ground pools have a tendency to be suitable for shorter swimming seasons. They are simple to winterize.
4. Maintenance Commitment
- Inground: Greater labor (weekly cleaning, complex repairs).
- Above Ground: Less upkeep (replace liners every 5, 8 years).
5. Aesthetic Priorities
- Luxury Seekers: Inground pools allow custom mosaics, waterfalls, and smart technology.
- Practicality: Above ground pools with cedar decks or stone pavers can mimic high-end designs.
Decision Checklist
| Select Inground If… | Select Above Ground If… |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Budget exceeds $35,000 | ✔️ Budget is under $15,000 |
| ✔️ You enjoy luxury | ✔️ You’re a renter or will be relocating soon |
| ✔️ You have a large, flat lawn | ✔️ You prefer DIY installation |
| ✔️ You enjoy a warm climate | ✔️ Your yard slopes or is small |
Still Undecided? HiPools in Georgia offers free consultations to match you with the best pool type for your home.
Final Takeaway:
Inground pools leave a lasting impression for warm-climate homeowners, while above ground pools offer affordability and flexibility. Consider your budget, lifestyle, and location first to make the right splash!
Conclusion
The choice between an inground pool and an above ground pool is dependent on your budget, lifestyle, and future plans. Inground pools provide luxury, durability, and possible appreciation value in warmer climates but need higher upfront costs and maintenance. Above ground pools are affordable, quick to set up, and versatile, perfect for small areas or temporary installations. Evaluate your priorities be it long-term investment or budget friendly fun and factor in your climate, yard space, and ability to maintain.
Ready to take the plunge? Call HiPools in Georgia today for a free estimate and turn your backyard into the haven of your dreams.
No comment