The cost of an in-ground pool can be prohibitively expensive, and homeowners often question whether an above-ground pool can be buried to create a more attractive backyard landscape at a more affordable price.
The short answer is yes... but there are several important considerations.
For starters, the soil type for the installation is important. The water inside an above ground pool actually provides structural support for the pool wall. So, the more dense the soil, the less likely it is that the pool wall might cave-in during times when the pool needs to be drained for winterization or other maintenance. It's always a good idea to check with an expert on the texture and composition of your backyard soil before burying an above ground pool.
One consideration is to backfill with a slurry or concrete mixture around the pool to provide strength. An obvious problem here is the added cost, which you are trying to prevent in the first place.
Some experts also believe minerals in the soil that is pressing against the pool can accelerate rust issues. This can be minimized in several ways, such as spraying rust-prevention solutions on the walls, plastic barriers or treating with a tar mixture.
Another consideration is burying the pool about half-way in the ground, which virtually eliminates the chance of a cave-in, while creating a more attractive setting in many cases. With that in mind, homeowners also have the option of wrap-around decks and landscaping to develop a more beautiful pool and outdoor atmosphere.
In certain climates, frost and freezing also can be a concern for the pool owner. Because frost depth increases in more northern climates, burying an above ground pool does not always guarantee against the pool freezing. You should also factor in the frost depth in your region when deciding how deep to bury a pool to adequately protect against frost-heave damaging the pool wall and frame. Frost heave occurs when the ground freezes and thaws during winter temperature cycles, causing the soil to expand and contract in the process. Consultation on this issue with an experienced, reliable pool supplier is recommended.
You should pay careful attention to your pool's manufacturer warranty, and be sure you understand the potential effect when burying or partially burying your pool. Burying some above ground pool models may void the warranty completely. Most manufacturers do not warranty pool models that are not designed to be buried when they are installed even partially under grade. Others may significantly reduce or limit warranties on buried installations. However, there are pool models available that are specifically designed to accommodate being fully or partially installed below grade, and those models are warranted accordingly.
Careful planning in your specific backyard setting is a key to successfully burying an above ground pool for years of trouble-free swimming fun.
At FamilyPoolFun.com, we carry a few select Above Ground Pool models that can be buried in-ground without worrying about many of the concerns listed above. Just give us a call, and we'll be happy to discuss your project and help you select the perfect model for your installation. We're eager to answer any of your questions about burying an above-ground pool or any other swimming pool questions you may have!
At FamilyPoolFun.com, we've been delivering family fun since 1990. We carry a full line of pool accessories, and pride ourselves on providing outstanding customer service. We offer free shipping and convenient financing on most pool kits. Browse our complete selection of pools and pool accessories on our website or call today at 800-250-5502.
