Which One Is Right for You?

When it comes to adding a swimming pool to your property, one of the first and most crucial decisions you'll face is choosing between an above ground concrete pool and an inground concrete pool. Both options have their unique advantages and challenges, and understanding these can help you make the best decision for your lifestyle, budget, and property aesthetics.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about above ground concrete pools versus inground concrete pools—from installation and cost to durability and maintenance—so you can confidently select the right pool for your home.

Understanding the Basics: What Are Above Ground and Inground Concrete Pools?

Before diving into the pros and cons, it’s important to clarify what differentiates these two pool types:

• Above Ground Concrete Pools: These pools are built on the surface of the ground rather than being recessed into it. They feature concrete construction, offering enhanced durability and customization compared to typical above ground pools made from metal or resin. Their elevated position creates a unique aesthetic and makes installation less invasive.

• Inground Concrete Pools: These pools are excavated into the earth and then constructed using concrete. They are permanent fixtures, usually offering a vast range of shapes, depths, and finishes. Known for their luxurious appeal and high customizability, inground pools are often the go-to choice for those seeking a long-term investment in their property.

Installation and Construction: What to Expect

Above Ground Concrete Pools

One of the biggest advantages of above ground concrete pools is the installation process. Because they don’t require extensive excavation, the installation time is generally shorter, and the disruption to your landscape is minimal. The construction involves building a sturdy concrete shell above the soil, which can be reinforced with steel rebar for added strength.

This method is ideal if your property has rocky or uneven terrain that would complicate digging for an inground pool. Additionally, since the pool sits on top of the ground, repairs and modifications can be easier to access.

Inground Concrete Pools

Inground pools require significant excavation, which involves heavy machinery and professional grading to ensure proper drainage and stability. After digging, a steel rebar framework is installed before pouring the concrete shell. Once cured, the surface is finished with plaster, tile, or other materials.

The construction timeline is longer and can be affected by weather conditions and soil types. Because of the extensive groundwork, this option is more invasive but ultimately results in a seamless integration with your yard’s landscaping.

Cost Considerations: Budgeting Your Pool Project

When considering above ground concrete pools, cost-effectiveness is one of their main appeals. These pools typically cost less to install than inground pools because of the reduced labor and groundwork required. The overall price depends on the pool size, additional features, and finishes, but generally, above ground concrete pools can save you thousands compared to inground options.

In contrast, inground concrete pools represent a significant investment. The excavation, engineering, and finishing work all contribute to a higher initial price tag. However, many homeowners consider this a worthwhile long-term investment due to the increased property value and luxurious appeal.

Aesthetics and Customization: Designing Your Dream Pool

Above Ground Concrete Pools

Above ground concrete pools offer a unique look, often standing out as a distinct feature in your yard. Their height can create a dramatic visual effect, especially when paired with decking, landscaping, and lighting. While traditionally seen as less elegant than inground pools, advances in design and finishing options mean you can customize the exterior with stone veneers, wood paneling, or decorative tiles to match your home’s style.

Because the pool structure is above ground, you can also create multi-level decks around it, perfect for social gatherings or sunbathing areas.

Inground Concrete Pools

The sky is the limit when it comes to designing inground pools. They can be shaped to any dimension, with features like waterfalls, built-in spas, benches, and tanning ledges. Because the pool is embedded in your yard, it offers a sleek and natural appearance that many homeowners prefer.

Finishing options are varied and luxurious, from pebble tec to mosaic tiles. The seamless integration with your landscape makes inground pools highly desirable for those aiming for a resort-like ambiance.

Durability and Maintenance: Keeping Your Pool Pristine

Concrete pools, whether above ground or inground, are known for their durability. However, each has specific maintenance considerations.

Above Ground Concrete Pools

Since above ground concrete pools are exposed to the elements on all sides, they may require regular inspection to prevent cracks or damage to the shell. Their elevation helps keep debris out, making surface cleaning easier, but you might experience more temperature fluctuations, affecting water chemistry.

Maintenance routines are generally straightforward, and repairs can be simpler due to easier access to the pool’s structure.

Inground Concrete Pools

Inground pools benefit from the natural insulation of the earth surrounding them, helping maintain more stable water temperatures. However, because they are permanent installations, repairs to the concrete shell can be more complex and costly.

Routine maintenance like brushing the walls, monitoring water chemistry, and seasonal draining and refilling are necessary. With proper care, inground pools can last decades.

Safety Factors: Protecting Your Family and Guests

Safety is a vital consideration in any pool decision.

Above ground concrete pools naturally provide an elevated barrier that can help prevent accidental falls, especially for young children and pets. Adding fencing or locking gates around the pool deck further enhances security.

Inground pools, being flush with the ground, require more deliberate safety measures such as pool covers, alarms, and secure fencing to prevent accidents.

Resale Value: Will Your Pool Pay Off?

Adding a pool can increase your home’s value, but the impact depends on the pool type.

Inground pools tend to add more resale value because of their luxurious appeal and permanence. They are often seen as desirable amenities that elevate the lifestyle of prospective buyers.

Above ground concrete pools can also boost value, particularly if they are well-designed and integrated into the yard with decks and landscaping. However, they may appeal to a more niche market and sometimes be perceived as less permanent.

Environmental Impact and Energy Efficiency

Above ground concrete pools often use less energy during construction and may require less water to fill, depending on size. Because they are elevated, they can sometimes be heated more efficiently if equipped with solar panels or heat pumps.

Inground pools have higher initial environmental costs due to excavation and materials, but modern designs incorporating energy-efficient pumps, LED lighting, and solar heating systems can reduce ongoing consumption.

Final Thoughts: Which Pool Is Right for You?

Choosing between above ground concrete pools and inground concrete pools ultimately depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, property layout, and long-term goals.

• If you want a durable, cost-effective pool with quicker installation and easier maintenance—and your property terrain is challenging—an above ground concrete pool might be the perfect fit.

• If you’re aiming for a luxurious, custom design that blends seamlessly with your landscape and boosts property value, and you have a flexible budget, an inground concrete pool is likely your best option.

Whichever you choose, concrete pools offer unmatched durability and design flexibility compared to other materials. Taking time to assess your needs and working with experienced pool professionals will ensure you enjoy your new backyard oasis for years to come.