How Long Does It Take to Install an Above-Ground Pool?

22 minutes read

Installing an above-ground pool can vary in terms of time based on various factors. These factors include the size and shape of the pool, the complexity of the installation process, the expertise of the individuals performing the installation, and the availability of necessary tools and equipment. On average, it typically takes anywhere from 1 to 3 days to install an above-ground pool.


Firstly, the installation process involves selecting an appropriate location for the pool. This requires clearing the area of any obstacles such as rocks, debris, or roots. The ground also needs to be leveled to ensure the pool is stable and properly supported.


Next, the pool frame needs to be assembled. This involves following the instructions provided by the manufacturer and connecting the various components securely. The frame is typically made of metal or resin and forms the structure that holds the pool liner and any additional accessories in place.


Once the frame is set up, the pool liner is installed. The liner is a durable, waterproof material that lines the inside of the pool and holds the water. It needs to be carefully positioned to avoid wrinkles or creases that could affect the overall appearance and functionality of the pool.


After the liner is in place, the pool can be filled with water. This process usually takes a significant amount of time depending on the size of the pool and the water pressure available. It is important to monitor the filling process and ensure the water level is even throughout the pool.


Lastly, the necessary plumbing and electrical connections need to be made. This includes installing any filtration systems, pumps, and other accessories required for proper pool maintenance. It is essential to follow local building codes and safety regulations during this step.


Overall, the installation process can range from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the size and complexity of the above-ground pool. It is always recommended to carefully read and follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure a successful and safe installation.

Best Above Ground Pools of 2024

1
INTEX 26355EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 18ft x 9ft x 52in – Includes 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture & Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble

Rating is 5 out of 5

INTEX 26355EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 18ft x 9ft x 52in – Includes 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture & Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble

  • EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind.Age grade: 6+.Age Grading: 6+
  • EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR pools are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed
  • RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
  • SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
  • KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26643EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
  • REMOVABLE LADDER – The Ultra XTR pool includes a removable ladder that has a coated steel frame to prevent rust; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection
2
Bestway Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

Bestway Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover

  • All ages will enjoy swimming in the 24-foot by 12-foot by 52-inch above-ground pool set, including a model 58498E 1,500 GPH sand filter pump, a ChemConnect dispenser, a ladder, and a pool cover
  • Steel frame construction increases durability and is held together with Seal and Lock System to provide remarkable strength and connection
  • TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner provides a reliable support band for additional stability to the pool wall for all summer fun
  • Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage with no tools required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
  • Disclaimer: Please review your HOA rules and restrictions before purchasing the product; Not all housing agencies permit private above-ground pools
3
Bestway Hydrium 15 Feet by 48 Inches Steel Wall Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Accessories, Sand Filter Pump & Chemical Dispenser, Gray

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

Bestway Hydrium 15 Feet by 48 Inches Steel Wall Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Accessories, Sand Filter Pump & Chemical Dispenser, Gray

  • Family-sized 15-foot by 48-inch round pool provides a place for kids and adults to enjoy summer fun
  • Ultra-durable galvanized steel wall, top platform, and supports provide superior rust and corrosion resistance
  • Embossed, textured woodgrain pattern on outer wall with realistic Prismatic Stone printing on the inner liner; Ultra-Violet coating protects liner from discoloration and cracking
  • Can stay assembled all year long without damage for seasonal convenience; Easy, 3-tool DIY setup; Screwdriver, wrench, and knife needed for assembly
  • Includes pool, sand filter, skimmer, ladder, ground cloth, pool cover, ChemConnect chemical dispenser
4
Funsicle 22ft x 52in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Funsicle 22ft x 52in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

  • STYLISH LUXURY POOL: Perfect for families, socializing & swimming, with space for up to 11 people
  • SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
  • MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
  • 2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1500 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
  • CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
5
Funsicle 14ft x 48in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Funsicle 14ft x 48in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

  • STYLISH LUXURY POOL: Perfect for families, socializing & swimming, with space for 6 to 7 people
  • SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
  • MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
  • 2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1000 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
  • CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
6
Bestway Power Steel 18' x 9' x 48" Oval Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

Bestway Power Steel 18' x 9' x 48" Oval Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover

  • All ages will enjoy swimming all summer long in the 18-foot by 9-foot by 48-inch above-ground pool; Includes a model 58390E 1,500 GPH filter pump, a ladder, and a convenient secure pool cover
  • Built with a steel frame that is held together with Seal and Lock System to provide remarkable strength and connection
  • TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner provides a support band for additional stability to the pool wall for ultimate durability
  • Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage; No tools are required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
  • Disclaimer: Please review your HOA rules and restrictions before purchasing the product; Not all housing agencies permit private above-ground pools
7
Bestway: Steel Pro MAX 15' X 48" Above Ground Pool Set - 4231 Gallon, Outdoor Family Pool, Corrosion & Puncture Resistant, Includes Filter, Pump, Ladder & Cover

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

Bestway: Steel Pro MAX 15' X 48" Above Ground Pool Set - 4231 Gallon, Outdoor Family Pool, Corrosion & Puncture Resistant, Includes Filter, Pump, Ladder & Cover

  • All ages will enjoy swimming and splashing all summer long in this 15-foot by 48-inch round above-ground pool; Includes a model 58388E 1,000-gallon filter pump, a ladder, and a pool cover
  • Built with a steel frame that is held together with FrameLink System to provide remarkable strength and connection
  • DuraPlus enhance 3-play PVC liner with an elegant design that provides a support band for additional stability to the pool wall for ultimate durability
  • Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage; No tools are required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
  • Disclaimer: Please review your HOA rules and restrictions before purchasing the product; Not all housing agencies permit private above-ground pools
8
Funsicle 16ft x 48in Round Oasis Above Ground Pool, with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Funsicle 16ft x 48in Round Oasis Above Ground Pool, with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

  • LUXURY POOL EXPERIENCE: Ideal for up to 8 people – Perfect for families, socializing & swimming
  • SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
  • MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
  • 2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1500 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
  • CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
9
INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in – Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in – Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble

  • EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind
  • EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR pools are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed
  • RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
  • SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
  • KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26647EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
  • REMOVABLE LADDER – The Ultra XTR pool includes a removable ladder that has a coated steel frame to prevent rust; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection
2


What factors can impact the installation time of an above-ground pool?

There are several factors that can impact the installation time of an above-ground pool:

  1. Pool Size: The size of the pool is a significant determinant of the installation time. Larger pools typically require more time to install as compared to smaller ones.
  2. Site Preparation: The condition of the site where the pool will be installed can affect the installation time. If the site requires extensive preparation, such as leveling the ground or removing debris, it can add to the installation duration.
  3. Access to Site: The ease of access to the installation site also plays a role. If the pathway to the site is obstructed or difficult to navigate, it can delay the installation process.
  4. Ground Conditions: The composition and condition of the ground can impact the installation time. If the soil is rocky or hard, additional time and effort may be required for excavation or anchoring the pool.
  5. Weather Conditions: Inclement weather, such as heavy rain or strong winds, can significantly impact the installation time. Bad weather conditions may require the installation process to be postponed or delayed.
  6. Complexity of Pool Structure: Some above-ground pools come with intricate designs and structures, such as multiple tiers or built-in features. These complex designs can increase the installation time as compared to simpler pool models.
  7. Experience and Skill Level: The expertise of the installation team can affect the time required for installation. Experienced professionals are likely to complete the installation more efficiently and quickly compared to less experienced individuals.
  8. Additional Features: The inclusion of additional features, such as decking, fencing, or landscaping around the pool, can also increase the installation time.


It is important to keep in mind that each installation is unique, and the factors mentioned above interact with each other, so the actual installation time may vary in each scenario.


How do I properly store an above-ground pool during the off-season?

Properly storing an above-ground pool during the off-season is essential to prolong its lifespan and ensure it remains in good condition for future use. Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Clean and remove debris: Before closing your pool for winter, clean it thoroughly. Use a pool brush or vacuum to remove any dirt, leaves, or debris from the pool water, walls, and floor. This prevents the accumulation of organic matter that can cause damage if left untreated.
  2. Balance the water chemistry: Test the water and make sure it is properly balanced before closing the pool. Adjust the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This helps prevent any damage caused by imbalanced water during the off-season.
  3. Lower the water level: Drain the pool water slightly below the skimmer level to allow for proper winterization. Consult the specific instructions provided by your pool manufacturer for the appropriate water level.
  4. Disconnect and drain equipment: Disconnect all equipment including pumps, filters, and heaters. Drain them thoroughly to remove any remaining water to avoid freezing and potential damage during the off-season. Store the detached equipment in a dry and safe place.
  5. Remove and store accessories: Take down the pool ladder, slides, or any other accessories, and clean them before storing. Store these items in a dry and safe place to protect them from harsh weather conditions.
  6. Cover the pool: Use a high-quality pool cover designed for above-ground pools to protect it during the off-season. Ensure the cover is securely fastened to prevent any water or debris from entering the pool. This helps maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the pool.
  7. Winterize the plumbing system: If your above-ground pool has a plumbing system, follow the manufacturer's instructions to properly winterize it. This usually involves blowing out the plumbing lines and adding antifreeze to prevent freezing and damage.
  8. Monitor the pool throughout the off-season: Periodically check the pool cover throughout the winter to ensure it is intact and secure. Remove any debris or excess water accumulated on the pool cover to prevent damage.


By following these steps, you can properly store your above-ground pool during the off-season, keeping it in good condition and ready for use when the warmer weather returns.


How to install an above-ground pool?

Installing an above-ground pool requires careful planning and following a set of steps to ensure the process is successful. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you install an above-ground pool:

  1. Choose the right location: Select a level, open area in your yard that can accommodate the size of the pool. Make sure to consider local regulations and any required setbacks from property lines or structures.
  2. Clear the area: Remove any grass, rocks, or debris from the chosen location. Level the ground using a shovel or a rented skid-steer loader if necessary.
  3. Lay the base: Spread a layer of sand or a pool pad over the leveled ground to provide a smooth surface and protect the pool's liner.
  4. Assemble the pool framework: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to assemble the pool framework. Most above-ground pools come with pre-cut and labeled parts that you can easily snap or screw together.
  5. Install the pool liner: Place the pool liner over the assembled framework, making sure it fits correctly and is smooth. Use weights or bricks to hold the liner in place temporarily.
  6. Fill the pool: Begin filling the pool with water, ensuring the liner settles evenly as you go. Smooth out wrinkles or any unevenness in the liner by gently pushing it down. Continue adding water until it reaches the desired level.
  7. Connect the filtration system: Set up the pool pump, filter, and any other required equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions. Connect the necessary hoses and ensure everything is correctly installed.
  8. Level the pool: Check if the pool is completely level once it is filled with water. Use a long carpenter's level or a smartphone level app to verify. If any adjustments are needed, drain the pool partially and re-level the ground under the affected area.
  9. Secure the pool: Install any additional bracing or supports as required by the manufacturer. Make sure the pool is well-supported and stable.
  10. Set up safety precautions: Install appropriate fencing, gates, or alarms to ensure the safety of children and pets around the pool area. Check local regulations for any specific safety requirements.
  11. Perform water treatment: Once the pool is filled with water, adjust the chemical levels and conduct regular maintenance to keep the water clean and safe for swimming. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for appropriate chemical treatments and dosages.


Remember, it is crucial to consult the pool manufacturer's instructions for your specific above-ground pool model, as the installation process may vary slightly between brands. If you are unsure about any step, it's always best to consult a professional pool installer for guidance.


How deep should the ground be dug for an above-ground pool installation?

The depth of the ground that needs to be dug for an above-ground pool installation depends on the specific requirements of the pool model and the local building codes. In general, most above-ground pools require a level base to be built, which may involve digging a trench or area that is about 2-4 inches deep. However, it is essential to consult the manufacturer's instructions or seek guidance from a professional installer to determine the precise depth needed for your specific pool model. Additionally, local building codes and regulations may specify additional requirements for the pool's installation, so it is crucial to check with the local authorities to ensure compliance.

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