Kinds Of Above Ground Pools
Sick of paddling pool puddles and garden hose chaos? Permanent above ground pools are your upgrade—and yes, there’s more than one kind! From inflatable quick fixes to permanent backyard beauties, each has its perks.
Short answer? Steel frame, inflatable, and rigid wall.
Keep reading to find your family’s perfect splash match.
Soft-Sided Pools
These are the ones most parents start with. Affordable, quick to set up, and perfect for spontaneous summer fun. Whether you’ve got little ones desperate for a splash or you’re just craving a cool-down after mowing the lawn, soft-sided pools are a solid option.
Let’s break them down.
Inflatable Pools
Inflatable pools are the pop-up tents of the pool world—set them up in minutes, enjoy, and pack away with zero fuss. They’re perfect for families with smaller gardens or unpredictable summers.
They don’t need tools, and they’re super budget-friendly.
Just unbox, inflate, fill—and boom, the kids are in their swimsuits before you can say “factor 50”.
Downsides? They're not the most durable. A rogue pebble or a dog with sharp claws might end the party early. But for a quick, fun splash zone? They do the job.
Metal Frame Pools
Metal frame pools are the next step up—still technically soft-sided, but with a sturdy skeleton.
Think of them like camping in a yurt instead of a tent.
They hold more water, last longer, and look more like a “real” pool. The frames give stability, and the liners are usually made from tough PVC that resists punctures better than inflatable types.
They’re great for families who want a more robust pool that doesn’t scream “temporary”.
Hard-Sided Pools
If you’re looking for something that says, “we’re serious about summer,” hard-sided pools are the way to go. These are more permanent and often stay up year-round.
They take more effort to install, but the payoff? A garden centrepiece that’s built to last.
Steel Wall Pools
Steel wall pools are the heavyweight champions. Tough, reliable, and made to weather all seasons.
They can sit proudly in your garden through winter without flinching. Plus, they often come in bigger sizes, which means room for everyone—including that cousin who never leaves.
They need a bit of muscle to put together, but once they’re in, they’re not going anywhere.
Resin Wall Pools
Resin pools are the more modern cousin of the steel type. They don’t rust, they laugh in the face of UV damage, and they’re easier to maintain over time.
Ideal if you’re looking for longevity without the worry of corrosion. They're also more forgiving on the skin—no hot metal sides baking in the sun.
Semi-Inground Pools
Not quite above, not quite in-ground—semi-inground pools offer a stylish middle ground. You dig a little, build a little, and boom—sleek garden aesthetics without the full in-ground price tag.
They blend into sloped gardens especially well and often look more “designed” than a standard pool.
Perfect if you're aiming for that wow factor.
Stock Tank Pools: The Modern Alternative
Let’s talk TikTok-famous. Stock tank pools are a rustic, Instagrammable twist on garden cooling.
Originally used to water livestock, these galvanised metal tubs have taken over back gardens—and for good reason.
The DIY Approach
This is for the creative types. Grab a stock tank, add a filter pump, maybe throw in a floating drinks tray, and suddenly you’ve got yourself a trendy backyard plunge pool.
They’re budget-friendly, quick to install, and surprisingly charming.
Just be warned: once the neighbours see it, you’ll be hosting every BBQ.
Selecting the Best Kind for Your Needs
Now we’ve covered what’s out there—let’s talk about what works best for your family.
A Quick Comparison Table (Cost, Durability, Lifespan)
| Pool Type | Cost | Durability | Lifespan | Aesthetic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inflatable | £ | Low | 1–2 seasons | Moderate |
| Metal Frame | ££ | Medium-High | 3–5 years | High |
| Steel Wall | £££ | High | 7–15 years | High |
| Resin Wall | £££ | High | 7–15 years | High |
| Semi-Inground | ££££ | Very High | 15+ years | Very High |
| Stock Tank (DIY) | £–££ | Medium | 3–6 years | Trendy |
Factors to Weigh Before You Buy
Budget and Space
Start by eyeballing your garden.
Do you have enough room to walk around the pool safely? Can it sit level on your lawn?
Inflatables are great for tight spaces or short-term use. But if you’ve got room and a bit more cash, a steel wall or semi-inground can turn your garden into a summer oasis.
Intended Use
Is this pool just for the kids to mess around in? Or are you dreaming of floating with a G&T while the barbecue sizzles?
For occasional splashing, go soft-sided.
If you’re planning pool parties and swimming workouts, something sturdier with more depth is worth the investment.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
Inflatables? Dead simple. Blow them up and you’re ready to roll.
Metal or hard-sided pools? You might need a mate (or three) and a weekend set aside.
Don’t forget maintenance. Some pools come with built-in filtration, while others need add-ons.
Covers, skimmers, vacuums—factor in the extras so your pool stays clean and clear.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some families thrive with a simple inflatable they bring out for heatwaves. Others invest in a steel-sided stunner that becomes the garden’s crown jewel.
Think about your space, your lifestyle, and how much effort you’re willing to put in.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just a pool—it’s a summer full of memories, splashes, laughs, and maybe the occasional cannonball.
And that’s worth getting right.
Have you checked out our other posts?
What Are Above Ground Pools Called?
Different Types Of Above Ground Pools
Everything You Need To Know About Above Ground Pools
Above Ground Pools That Can Be Buried
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