Above and Inground Swimming Pools and Supplies

Welcome to Above and Inground Swimming Pools and Supplies. I aim to discuss the basic swimming pool types, such as Above Ground Swimming Pools, Inground Swimming Pools, Spas, Small Swimming Pools and the basics of using Swimming Pool Supplies.

The first question you may ask are what are the different types of swimming pools?

Above Ground Pools
As the name describes, the above ground pool type rests on top of the ground. These pools come in 12, 15, 18, 21, 24 and 27' diameter round sizes standard and run 48" deep. They are composed of a pool wall and frame, liner, pump, filter and ladder (for entry). Usually these are built next to an existing deck but some may come with a small access deck. A diving board is not permitted on above ground pool installations.

Inground Pools
Also as the name implies, the inground pool type is dug into the ground. The come in all shapes and sizes from rectangular 8x16' to 20x60' and larger or any other shape imaginable. Inground swimming pools usually slope from a shallow end depth of 36" to 8,10 or even 12' at the deep end. The inground pools are usually composed of concrete, vinyl or fiberglass. On the top ridge encircling the pool is the coping, usually consisting of concrete, stone or brick. The coping is usually attached to the outer pool decking, usually made of wood, concrete, brick or stone. Steps are usually added at the shallow end and an access ladder at the deep end. Additionally, a diving board can be added if the pool has a depth above 8'. A pump, filter and plumbing system is required to circulate and filter the swimming pool water.

Spas
These are shallow mini pools that are usually heated and contain water jets at various depths to create a massaging, bubbling effect. They range in size from as small as 2 adults (6' x 6') up to 8 adults (7' x 7 ') and even larger with custom spas. Spas can be above ground or inground, attached to a deck or even attached to a swimming pool. A spa is usually contained in a single unit comprised of a fiberglass shell sitting on a pedestal. The pump and filter are usually under the spa but on larger models they may be detached.

Swimming Pool Supplies
Beyond the pool types, there are standard supplies required to maintain and take care of your swimming pool or spa. These inlude skimmers, poles, chemicals, covers, vacuums, hoses, floats and pool toys.

In following posts I will answer more detailed questions. What are their shapes and sizes? What are the pros and cons of each? How much do each swimming pool type cost? How are the pool types maintained? What are the components of each swimming pool type? What is the cost to maintain? Basically the questions leading up to what kind of pool, if any, you should own.

Well I hope you have gotten a basic understanding of Above and Inground Swimming Pools and Supplies and will see you around the pool!