Choosing the Right Pool For You Is Crucial.
Buying a pool is no small investment, and choosing the right type is pertinent to making that investment worth it.
At Aloha Pools & Spas, we’ve helped families through this decision-making process since 1969. While there isn’t one “best” pool, there is usually one that’s the best fit for you.
In this article, we’ll compare above-ground, semi-inground, and inground pools by cost, longevity, customization, appearance, and other important considerations to help you decide which option best fits your needs.
Above-Ground vs. Semi-Inground vs. Inground Pools at a Glance
| Feature | Above-Ground | Semi-Inground | Inground |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lowest upfront cost | Mid-range; customization can approach inground pricing | Highest upfront cost |
| Lifespan | Around 20 years (if well maintained) | Long-term investment; similar to inground pool | Long-term investment of 40+ years |
| Customization | Very limited; round or oval vinyl pools | Limited pool customization, but surrounding deck/patio can be highly customized | Most customizable, especially gunite |
| Appearance | Functional look | Can resemble an inground pool with proper landscaping and decking | Premium appearance with the most design options |
| Best Backyard | Works in most yards | Great for sloped yards but works in most | Best for homeowners wanting a permanent backyard feature |
| Longevity | Water chemistry and upkeep are the biggest factors in longevity | Proper water chemistry and care will lengthen the lifespan | Proper water chemistry ensures renovations are required every 10+ years |
| Best For | Budget-conscious homeowners or shorter-term living situations | Homeowners wanting a more permanent look without full inground costs | Long-term homeowners wanting maximum customization and backyard value |
Cost
Cost is often the first thing buyers consider, and for good reason. The exact cost of each pool is contingent on factors such as size, installation requirements, your backyard, and other site conditions.
In general,
Above-ground pools have the lowest upfront cost, making them the most budget- friendly option.
Semi-inground pools typically fall between above-ground and inground pools in price. However, customization can quickly increase the cost until it reaches the lower end of an inground pool’s price range, so it’s worth discussing your plans carefully with your sales representative.
Inground pools are generally the most expensive option. The final cost depends heavily on your choice of vinyl, fiberglass, or gunite. Learn more about those differences here.
Longevity
The length of your pool’s lifespan depends on the type of pool you choose, but regardless of style, the single biggest factor in its lifespan is maintaining proper water chemistry.
Above-Ground Pools: If well-maintained, an above-ground pool can last around 20 years, although many don’t make it that long due to your water chemistry, upkeep, and surrounding protection. Avoid backfilling your above ground pool (building up dirt around the above-ground pool) to give it a longer life expectancy. More information on this HERE.
Semi-Inground Pools: Semi-inground pools are considered a long-term investment and generally have a lifespan comparable to an inground pool.
Inground Pools: The lifespan of an inground pool is expected to be at least 30 years. Vinyl pools need liner replacements around every 10 years, gunite pools usually need to be plastered for 20 years, and fiberglass pools usually only need major repairs every 20-30+ years- these are rare and somewhat difficult to make happen because of how difficult it is to drain a fiberglass pool.
Customization
Are you a visionary with a grand plan for an exquisitely designed pool that perfectly fits your taste? Or do you prefer a more standard look with a little extra money in your pocket? The scope of customization in pools differs greatly:
Above-Ground Pools offer a clean slate for decoration. There’s an assortment of liner designs, and they’re typically offered in oval or round shapes. While the pool itself is not super customizable, many people build decks, pergolas, and entries to their above ground pool. An above ground pool’s customization will be seen in the area around it.
Semi-Inground Pools are similar to above ground pools: they’re not highly customizable, but everything around them can be. If you already have a deck or patio, a semi-inground pool can often be incorporated into the space to create the appearance and feel of an inground pool. Many people also customize their semi-inground pools with wood or brick siding, as well. Explore options here.
Inground Pools offer the greatest level of customization.
- Vinyl pools come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. You can customize these pools with tanning ledges and steps.
- Fiberglass pools are limited to the manufacturer’s available molds and sizes, but some manufactures have over 40 shapes and sizes with added amenities including tanning shelves, beach entries, and benches. You’re able to add tile accents on some of these pools, as well.
- Gunite pools are built on-site, giving you virtually unlimited customization, including freeform shapes, tanning ledges, grottos, beach entries, and other specialty features. Gunite is also the basis for a full tile pool.
Appearance
Each pool creates a different overall look in your backyard.
Above-Ground Pools: These pools have a more functional appearance. There aren’t many ways to change the overall look, although custom liners can add some personality to your pool.
Semi-Inground Pools: Without landscaping or decking, a semi-inground pool can resemble a partially buried above-ground pool. The surrounding design is what transforms it into a beautiful backyard feature. Decking, retaining walls, landscaping, and patios often have a much bigger impact on appearance than the pool itself. The depth of burial is also largely based on homeowner preference.
Inground Pools: The appearance of an inground pool depends on its construction type.
- Vinyl: Vinyl liners are typically replaced every 10 years or so, allowing homeowners to update the pool’s appearance with a different liner pattern.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass pools generally maintain their color and finish throughout their lifetimes. Manufacturers typically offer timeless colors that don’t go out of style.
- Gunite: Gunite pools offer the most luxurious appearance. When the pool is replastered, homeowners can also change the finish, texture, or color, giving the pool a refreshed look.
Other Things to Consider
Choosing a pool isn’t just about the pool itself. Where you live matters, and regulations and conditions sometimes help you make the decision. Some factors that should influence your decision include your backyard, HOA regulations, and whether or not this is your “forever” pool.
Your Backyard
Some backyards are naturally better suited for certain types of pools.
For example, steep or sloped yards often work well for semi-inground pools.
If your property requires considerable preparation or excavation, installation costs may increase regardless of the pool you choose.
HOA Regulations
Because semi-inground pools are still relatively new, some homeowners associations are still determining how to classify them.
If you live in an HOA, make sure you understand any restrictions before making your decision.
How Long You Plan to Stay
Think about how long you expect to live in your home.
- Typically, a well-maintained inground pool can add 5%-8% to your home’s resale value.
- Above-ground pools are typically treated as temporary/removable personal property.
- The value of a semi-inground pool depends heavily on any permanent fixtures that go with it. For instance, a semi-inground pool with a surrounding deck is considered more permanent, and is expected to add to your home’s value.
If you’re not sure how long you will be in your home, you should consider the benefits a pool could have for the next family living there. For instance, if you’re a family of 5 with teenagers/young adults, you may be looking to downsize in the next 5-10 years. It’s likely the next family purchasing your home will also be a family with children, possibly at an earlier stage in life. A pool designed for both your life and for those who will use the pool for years to come will increase your probability of a higher retail value and higher demand once it’s time to sell your home.
Which Pool Is Right for You?
At the end of the day, the best pool isn’t the one someone else recommends- it’s the one that best fits your lifestyle, budget, and long-term plans.
An Above-Ground Pool Might Be Right for You If…
- You have several hobbies competing for your budget.
- You aren’t home often.
- You don’t plan to stay in your current home forever.
- You mainly want a pool for relaxing and casual swimming.
A Semi-Inground Pool Might Be Right for You If…
- You want something more customizable than an above-ground pool without paying for a full inground pool.
- You enjoy home improvement projects- or hiring someone else to do them.
- You already have a deck or patio you’d like to extend.
- Your backyard has a significant slope.
- You’re ready for a long-term investment without taking on the full cost of an inground pool.
An Inground Pool Might Be Right for You If…
- You plan to stay in your home long-term or want to maximize your home’s value long-term.
- You’ll spend a lot of time enjoying your backyard.
- Customization is important to you.
- You frequently host family and friends.
- You want a pool that’s well-suited for swimming, diving, and serving as a true backyard centerpiece.
Final Thoughts
There isn’t one pool that’s right for everyone.
The right selection depends on your budget, your backyard, how long you plan to stay in your home, and how you imagine yourself using your pool.
By understanding the tradeoffs between above-ground, semi-inground, and inground pools, you’ll be able to invest with certainty and choose the option that’s the best fit for your family.
At Aloha Pools & Spas, we’re ready to help you start making memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you choose an above-ground, semi-inground, or inground pool, your backyard can become a place for relaxation, fun, and quality time with the people who matter most.
The sooner you take the plunge, the sooner those memories can begin.
