Homeowners in Toronto and elsewhere in Canada who are weighing up the pros and cons associated with above ground and inground pools often make the mistake of focusing almost exclusively on cost. While it is true that an above ground pool will be considerably cheaper to purchase and install than an inground one of a comparable size, there are several other factors, just as important as cost, that should be considered before making a decision. If you are not sure why you should consider installing an above ground type in your home, take a look at the next section, in which we discuss the advantages of doing so.
The Advantages of Inground Pools
We have already mentioned the fact that inground types are more expensive than their above ground counterparts and most homeowners are aware that they take longer to install, owing to the excavation work required. However, what are the advantages that you can enjoy should you decide to take the plunge and invest a little more time and money in your new pool?
- Visual Appeal – A well-designed inground fibreglass pool will enhance the appearance of your property. With the help of professional landscaping contractors, you can turn what may currently be a muddy corner of your yard into a real attraction that catches the eye whether you are inside or outside your home.
- Added Value – Inground pools typically increase the value of the property where they are installed, often by a significant amount. While this increase in value will not cover the installation costs involved, it will go some way to defraying them should you decide to sell up and move in the future. This is particularly true in cities such as Toronto, where warm, humid summers are the order of the day.
- Longevity – An above ground pool should last anywhere from 7 to 15 years, depending on the quality of the model that you purchase. Inground pools, on the other hand, can last for much longer. A relatively inexpensive fibreglass installation could provide you with as much as 20 years of swimming pleasure before you need to think about replacing it and should you decide to invest in a concrete construction, you can look forward to a lifetime of enjoyment from your new pool.
- Maintenance Costs – The liners in above ground models usually need to be replaced every 5 – 10 years, which is an extra cost you should bear in mind when calculating a budget for your new pool. Inground fibreglass pools may be more expensive to install but, as mentioned above, they will last for up to 20 years, without relining or any other major renovations. Other maintenance costs, such as those associated with the upkeep of filtration equipment and cleaning, are similar for both types of pool so are not a consideration when making your choice.
- Depth – If you enjoy diving, you will definitely want to go for inground rather than above ground when buying and installing a new pool. Above ground models are usually no more than 52 inches deep, making them unsuitable for diving enthusiasts. Inground pools can be designed to accommodate any depth you require, making them far more flexible in this regard.
We hope that the above information has given you food for thought as far as your choice of pool is concerned. If you would like to find out exactly how much it will cost to install a new pool in your home, you can use the contact form on our site to request a free estimate. If you would like to discuss your needs with a member of our team, please call us on 416-238-9703.