An above ground pool for your backyard could add some serious cool points to an otherwise drab backyard. If you’ve decided to have an above ground pool, then you may just have made one of the best decisions in your life. But before you start setting out and cordoning off the pool area, here are a few factors you may want to consider before getting that lovely pool.
What to Know Before Getting a Backyard Pool
Above ground pools are a great alternative to in-ground pools, less of a hassle and quicker and easier to install. That being said, the relative easiness of above ground pool installation does not mean you should give these pools any less consideration than their counterparts. Here are a few things to keep in mind before installing a backyard above ground pool.
1. Adequately Prepare the Pool Area
Above ground backyard pools require a level surface to sit properly, and the same also applies to hot tubs. It is therefore imperative to prepare the ground where the swimming pool will sit sufficiently before. If your backyard slopes, you may need an excavator to level the surface before the pool installation. If the ground is a bit bumpy then a simple shovel will work just fine in filling in the bumps and making the surface level.
It is important to note also that you cannot install above ground backyard pools directly on grass, concrete, peat moss, mulch, and gravel. The soil should also be free of any petroleum-based chemicals. You may also want to treat the soil where you’ll set the pool with a fungicide that is free from petroleum; this fungicide will help prevent the buildup of fungi because of the moisture. Adequate preparation could save you a bundle in repairs down the line.
2. Where the Pool Will Sit
Take a look at your local area regulations before settling on a location for your pool, because there may be certain restrictions on backyard pools. Apart from that, certain house installations like the septic system may interfere with the pool, so it is best to have a firm understanding of the local codes to avoid breaching any. You can always have your local engineer help you understand the stipulated codes if you don’t understand other parts of the code.
When selecting a site, consider things like the level of privacy you want, the aesthetics of your backyard with the pool installed, and whether the pool will be safe for toddlers and wandering animals. Besides that, you should keep your pool away from the trees because no one likes a backyard pool of leaves and debris.
3. The Filters and Pumps
There is a lot of technicality concerning pumps and filters to which most folks would rather turn a blind eye, but these technical matters could be imperative to how efficient your pools run and how long your backyard pool lasts. When it comes to these two contraptions, you should mostly pay attention to their size and capacity.
4. Water Quality of the Pool
Never compromise on the quality of your pool water. Remember to treat your backyard pools with chlorine or salt to eliminate harmful bacteria. If your pool water is salty then get a slat filtration system in place to mitigate the corrosive effects of salt.
Swimming is the fourth most popular recreational activity in the United States. An above-ground backyard pool is a great idea; just remember to take into consideration these factors, and you are set for hours of unlimited fun and relaxation. Apart from backyard pools, you can also opt for a hot tub in your backyard to give your backyard that spa feeling.