Installing an inground pool is a dream that many homeowners desire for their yard. Unfortunately, building an inground pool can be expensive as well as difficult to construct, particularly if you live on a slope. Because it is not always possible to install an inground pool in backyards, you may begin to wonder whether or not you can put an above-ground pool in the ground.
In short, the answer to this question is yes, it is indeed possible to put an above-ground pool in the ground. With that being said, there are some considerations that you will want to keep in mind when installing an above-ground pool in the ground.
If you wonder what these considerations are, read on! Today, we’ll cover everything you need to know about burying above-ground pools in the ground, and the top considerations to keep in mind.
Can You Bury an Above-Ground Pool?
Although above-ground pools have their benefits, many homeowners desire the installation of an inground pool in their backyard. Because this isn’t always possible due to uneven terrain and limited resources, many pool-owners are led to wonder if an above-ground pool can be buried in the ground.
The short answer is yes, above-ground pools can be buried in the ground. That said, there are many considerations pool owners should keep in mind. Depth, construction, and durability are just a few considerations to ponder when burying an above-ground pool.
Because installing an inground pool can be expensive, many pool-owners choose to bury their above-ground pool in the ground. Once installed, above-ground pools can have the same look and feel as an inground pool.
Of course, above-ground pools are not specifically designed to be put in the ground. Because of this, it’s important to consider how you want your above-ground pool installed to ensure it is always durable and safe to swim in.
Things to Consider When Putting an Above-Ground Pool in the Ground
Burying an above-ground pool under the soil requires a fair amount of planning and considerations. Because above-ground pools may become unsafe once buried in the ground, it’s important to design your pool in a way that remains durable in all conditions. Below, we’ve put together a list of the top things to consider when putting an above-ground pool in the ground.
Durability
By far, the most important thing to consider when putting an above-ground pool in the ground is durability. Many above-ground pools are simply not designed to be put in the ground. In fact, putting the wrong pool in the ground can be dangerous, as well as difficult to maintain.
Before you install your above-ground pool, make sure you’ve chosen one that can handle being buried. The best type of above-ground pool for being buried is the semi-inground pool. As the name suggests, this type of pool can be partially buried, or even put completely in the ground.
Semi-inground pools are recommended for burying because their walls are built to handle the pressure of being put in the ground. Additionally, they have the same appearance as inground pools, only they don’t cost as much.
Safety
Another concern involved with burying an above-ground pool is the pool’s safety. Above-ground pools are known for being safer than inground pools, as there is less of a risk that people accidentally fall into the water. Once an above-ground pool is buried, however, the risk of falling in and drowning is greatly increased. This is especially a major concern if you have young children.
To make your buried above-ground pool safer, you may consider installing a railing around the pool. If you have young children, you may even install childproof locks on the gates.
Installing a fence around your pool not only makes your above-ground pool safer, but it may give you more privacy. Moreover, a railing surrounding your pool may spruce up your pool’s appearance.
Depth
Although above-ground pools may be installed in the ground, they do not provide much flexibility for depth as inground pools. This is due to the lining constraints of above-ground pools. With this being said, it is possible to have a deep end in your above-ground pool.
To construct a deep end in your above-ground pool, you must first have expandable pool liners. Expandable pool liners provide an additional foot of depth in the center of the pool. Therefore, if you have expandable pool liners, your above-ground pool may exceed the average depth of 4 to 4.5 feet.
When designing a deep end in your above-ground pool, it’s important to have a gradual slope. A steep slope is not only difficult to swim in and maintain, but it can be dangerous for swimmers. Before installing an above-ground pool with a deep end, make sure the slope is gradual and the pool is large enough for the deep end.
Terrain
Another consideration to ponder is the terrain where you plan on installing your above-ground pool. The type of soil you have, as well as how much your yard slopes, are two important factors when determining if an above-ground pool can be put in the ground.
If your yard has a steep slope, you may find it more difficult to bury an above-ground pool. Although it is possible to install semi-inground pools on a slope, it is much easier when the ground is somewhat level.
Additionally, you may want to consider what your soil consists of. For instance, if the ground contains heavy rocks, it may be more difficult to dig out a level space for your pool. Not only will this type of terrain create challenges during installation, but it may raise excavation prices.
Pool Pumps
The final consideration to think about when burying an above-ground pool is the type of pool pump used. While it may seem obvious to use an above-ground pool pump, there are quite a few differences between inground pool pumps and above-ground pool pumps.
The main difference between these two pumps is the way they function. Because above-ground pool pumps are designed for pools above the ground, they cannot draw water up. Consequently, an above-ground pump must be placed lower than the pool’s water level in order to work properly.
If you would rather have your pool’s equipment above the water level, you will need to invest in an inground pump. Otherwise, you may consider installing your pool only halfway in the ground.