
Can you partially bury an above ground pool?
The walls of an above ground pool typically consist of a thin aluminum wall that holds the pool liner. You will generally find above ground pool retailers willing to partially bury an above ground pool, but you can expect to leave at least half of the pool out of the ground. Can you put pavers around above ground pool?
How to bury an above ground pool?
The Different Types of Pools
- Inflatable Pools. An inflatable, movable pool is often ideal for people who have small children. ...
- Traditional Above Ground Pools. For those who don’t want to spend $30K on an in-ground pool, an above ground option is cost-effective and enjoyable.
- Semi-Buried/Fully Buried Above Ground Pools. ...
- In-Ground Pools. ...
Can all Doughboy pools be buried?
Can all Doughboy pools be buried? Doughboy manufactures the only above ground pool that can be installed completely in the ground. If your ideal backyard includes an inground pool, but your budget doesn’t allow for it – Doughboy has the perfect solution. Doughboy offers a wide variety recessed pools that are sure to fit your style.
How do you backfill soil around an above ground pool?
However, there are downsides to partial collapse and fill:
- The backfilled area will no longer be buildable
- Can affect the value of your home
- Risk of depressed area or swelling when done incorrectly

Can you put an above ground pool partially in the ground?
The Partial In-Ground Option Some pool installation professionals suggest putting an above-ground pool only halfway in the ground. Doing so reduces excavation costs and minimizes the risk of the pool collapsing inward if it needs to be drained.
How low can you bury an above ground pool?
No you can not bury a traditional above ground pool. The photo above and the gallery below tell the story. Traditional above ground pools that have one individual pool wall that more or less is a thin sheet of metal is not designed to withstand the force of the ground against the pool wall. DON'T DO IT!
Can an above ground pool be deeper in the middle?
This is possible because there is no frame structure or metal components that cross through the center of the pool, leaving the entire pool floor open to modification. Digging a deep center or deep middle is the most common way to add water depth to a round above ground pools.
Can you backfill above ground pool?
The pool must be filled prior to backfilling to prevent pool wall collapse and the water level in the pool must always be higher than ground level by at least 1 foot. Slurry is the best backfill material to use when completely burying an above-ground pool since it can better support its own weight.
Can you make a shallow end in an above ground pool?
Luckily, above ground pools can have both shallow and deep ends, just like an in-ground pool. Another pool option that is gaining popularity is the semi in-ground pool design.
How do you install an above ground semi inground pool?
2:023:27Stealth Semi-In Ground Pool Installation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow we start to add concrete around the exterior of the pool base. Once concrete and sand are inMoreNow we start to add concrete around the exterior of the pool base. Once concrete and sand are in place we laser the pool again to make sure nothing has shifted during the concrete and sand placement.
Can an above-ground pool be 6 feet deep?
You can buy specially made above-ground pools with a depth up to six feet, but these are only available from pool-installation companies. And when you go that deep, you must make sure the walls, liner, and supports can handle the water pressure.
How deep can semi inground pool be?
There are various depths of SEMI-INGROUND pools from 42” panels to 60” panels, very similar to an INGROUND pool. This makes them much stronger than a typical ABOVEGROUND pool that only use a one-piece thin corrugated wall.
Can a round above-ground pool have a deep end?
Round pools tend to not have straps or braces that run underneath the structure thus allowing you to dig a little deeper in the centre of the base and create an area of greater depth.
Can I partially bury an Intex pool?
And for this reason, many people ask, “Can above ground pools be partially buried?” in hopes of receiving the best of both worlds. The short answer is that “Yes, they can!” However, there are some things that should be taken into account if you're going to go down this route.
Do you need drainage around an above ground pool?
Drainage is one the most important factors in the life expectancy of an above ground pool. Simply put, drainage is how well the area around your pool drains surface water away from the pool.
What does backfilling a pool mean?
Backfilling a pool is the process of filling the empty space left by the inground pool with gravel, sand, or dirt. Backfilling is just one part of the pool removal process. The concrete floor and walls of the pool must be broken up and/or removed prior to backfilling.
Can you partially bury an Intex pool?
And for this reason, many people ask, “Can above ground pools be partially buried?” in hopes of receiving the best of both worlds. The short answer is that “Yes, they can!” However, there are some things that should be taken into account if you're going to go down this route.
How do I level the ground for an above ground pool without digging?
2:233:23How to Level the Ground for a Pool Without Digging - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou could also use a flat shovel to help you do this. But you keep pulling all around the circleMoreYou could also use a flat shovel to help you do this. But you keep pulling all around the circle there and eventually you'll have a nice level spot for your above-ground pool.
How deep can you put a semi inground pool?
There are various depths of SEMI-INGROUND pools from 42” panels to 60” panels, very similar to an INGROUND pool. This makes them much stronger than a typical ABOVEGROUND pool that only use a one-piece thin corrugated wall.
How do you bury a pool?
How to fill in an inground swimming pool:Power off the pool by disconnecting the breaker box.Drain the pool.Drill holes at the bottom of the pool to prevent water collection.Demolish side walls. ... Backfill and compact. ... Finish with soil & sod.
Can A Fiberglass Pool Be Semi Inground
Yes! As we said before, fiberglass pools can be inground, above ground, and even on the roof. A semi inground fiberglass pool installation will require a few new steps in the installation process, but it will definitely be an option for you if you like the look or if you live on uneven terrain.
Structural Failure Is Common
Perhaps youll understand why AG pools arent designed to be buried when you look at what goes on beneath the surface. Burying a pool partially or fully in-ground will mean that the structure is surrounded by soil and other materials. The soil conditions alone can be devastating to the pool.
It Will Void The Pool Warranty
Partially or fully burying an above-ground pool is considered by manufacturers as using the pool in a way that was not originally intended. This can easily be used to void the pool warranty, and any damage and repair will be solely at your own expense.
I Only Go Down About Halfway
These pools arent called above grounds just cause its catchy. Above ground swimming pools are not designed for inward pressure. So, when you put them in the ground, they can cave in from the weight of the earth, but only when they are empty.
Youre Stuck With The Pool
Finally, a huge drawback of a semi or fully in-ground pool is that your yard is pretty much stuck with it. Its fixed in place, so you cant sell the pool if you no longer want it. You would have to dig it up and pay for the landscaping services to revert your yard back to normal.
How Level Should A Pool Be
I dont usually see above ground pools that are off more than four inches, because they will almost always cave in when the level is off by more than that. Most above ground installation manuals will say that a pool should be level within an inch, but I try to get it level to an eighth of an inch or so.
Its Perfectly Ok To Use The Same Earth That Came Out Of The Hole For Backfilling
I have people commonly ask me what material should they use for backfilling. Some think that rock or some special type of earth is needed. Its not.
Can you bury an above ground pool?
Well, yes, you can bury your above ground pool and construct an inground pool in that same space. Even so, only specific above ground pools can accommodate this. Some types of above ground pools cannot get buried in the ground. Consequently, before burying an above ground pool, confirm with your pool contractor whether it can get buried.
Can you bury an above ground pool to install an inground pool?
When you bury an above ground pool to install an inground pool, you’ll save on costs. We all know the massive construction costs that come with pools. The above ground pool minimizes the effort and costs required for excavation. But note that you will have to purchase a costly pool pump that will accommodate the inground pool.
Can you build an inground pool out of an above ground pool?
When building an inground pool out of an above ground pool, you won’t incorporate your preferred pool depth. Remember, the above ground pool already has a certain depth. So, you’ll have to use the same depth for your inground pool. So, if you want a deep pool, you might have to create an inground pool from scratch.
What is the wall of an above ground pool?
The walls of an above ground pool typically consist of a thin aluminum wall that holds the pool liner. The pool wall ultimately gets its strength from the pressure of the water pushing equally outward on the wall.
What is the difference between an above ground pool and a semi-inground pool?
Here are a few significant differences between above ground and semi-inground pools when it comes to burying. Construction. Semi- inground pools can be buried b ecause the materials they are made with are different from above ground pools. Semi -inground pool kits come with a much thicker wall, for example. The wall consists of panels which are fully ...
Can a semi-inground pool be buried?
This is a semi-inground pool. It can be buried much farther into the ground than an above ground pool.
Can you sink an above ground pool into dirt?
While the installation of your above ground pool will probably require some excavation to get a level surface to assemble your pool, that excavation process is not intended to sink your above ground pool completely into the dirt.
Can you build an above ground pool?
From stock designs to semi-custom to fully custom, you can get whatever you want. With above ground pools you will have to work within existing parameters. Still, with several of the models available today, you can get above ground pools that look like in-ground pools, designed to your style and your property.
Can an above ground pool be buried?
The short answer is yes, but the longer answer involves several conditions. Not just any pool can be buried, and not just in any area, and not just to any shape or depth. First, you need to make sure your above ground pool is built ...
Can you stretch pool liners infinitely?
A deep end is not out of the realm of possibility, but standard liners can’t stretch infinitely. You may be able to reach your desired depth using expandable pool liners, however. When installing liners, the size and shape of your pool matters, as well.
Is it better to have an above ground pool or an in ground pool?
Perhaps the best benefit of a buried above ground pool is getting the in-ground look you want at a smaller price point. In most cases, above ground pools will cost less than in-ground pools, so it may be possible to save money choosing the former over the latter.
Can you put a doughboy pool above ground?
The Doughboy Palm Shore is versatile enough to be installed fully above ground, all the way into the ground, or even as a semi-buried pool. It all depends on the style you want and the layout of your yard.
Can you bury an above ground pool in Michigan?
Particularly in Michigan, it’s important to know the composition of the soil into which you’ll be burying your pool. If you’re not sure (most people aren’t), contact an expert to help you determine if burying an above ground pool is even an option for you.
Can you install a semi in ground pool?
Although it is possible to install a fully recessed or semi-in-ground pool with a deep end, you’ll generally not be able to reach depths an in-ground pool can reach, simply due to liner constraints. A deep end is not out of the realm of possibility, but standard liners can’t stretch infinitely.
How high is an above ground pool?
Higher-end above-ground pools are nice looking. They have well-designed walls with proper coloring and stylish frames. These pools being more than four feet high though are a consideration for the overall aesthetics of a backyard though.
Why is it harder to clean an above ground pool?
Above-ground pools are harder to clean because they are high up. Some will have a high deck around the pool and that will make it much easier to clean. Without a deck surrounding the pool, it would be much easier to clean if it were halfway in the ground.
Why do you put a deck next to the pool?
Once in the pool, the water helps a lot to make it easier and safer for those to get back out .
Why do people sink above ground pools?
Many people sink above ground pools for the same reason that they get oval-shaped ones – They want it to look more like a traditional inground.
Is it cheaper to put an above ground pool in the ground?
There is a lot of dirt to deal with, the pool assembly is harder to do down in a hole, and building a retention wall or backfilling is a mandatory step. The cost to put an above-ground pool in the ground is a lot too. Doing this can double the overall install price as it’s not cheap to have a hole dug and/or earth removed from the property.
Can dogs swim in a pool?
People will want their dogs to be fully incorporated with the family having a swimming pool. For this reason, pool owners will want their dogs to have easy access to the pool. And since most dogs cannot easily climb a ladder, they opt to sink the pool in the ground deep enough so their dogs can easily jump in and out.
Can you see kids swimming in the pool?
Many want to be able to see their young kids swimming in the pool very clearly. Some want to see them from their patio or even inside the house as in through the kitchen window. When an above-ground pool is partially buried, the swimmers are more visible everywhere in the yard and from the house.
Why aren't pools buried?
Structural failure is common. Perhaps you’ll understand why AG pools aren’t designed to be buried when you look at what goes on beneath the surface. Burying a pool partially or fully in-ground will mean that the structure is surrounded by soil and other materials. The soil conditions alone can be devastating to the pool.
What happens if you don't want a pool?
If someone falls in love with your property but does not want a pool, then they most likely will request that you remove it or offer you a reduced price to compensate for the expensive work they’ll have to pay to remove the pool! So, you not only lose your initial investment, you may be out thousands more.
Why is my pool imploding?
There is a strong possibility of the pool imploding when the water is removed due to the pressures of the soil. Also, if you find corrosion or other structural issues, repairs or replacement may be impossible or very costly and not worth the hassle or risks.
Why do you have to fence off your yard?
As such, it’s the law to fence off your yard if you’ve built an in-ground pool. This is to stop other people from wandering into it and drowning in your pool – along with any wild animals that might do the same.
Is it safe to build a pool in the ground?
When you build a pool into the ground, you instantly make your back yard a riskier place. It’s unsafe as anyone can fall into the pool if they’re not careful. Even if you have a cover over the pool, it’s still a risk. As such, it’s the law to fence off your yard if you’ve built an in-ground pool.
Does an AG pool affect insurance?
By contrast, an AG pool won’t affect your taxes and may not affect insurance. This is because it’s not considered a permanent or fixed improvement. The pool is not technically part of your property, so the value of your home isn’t affected at all. This means you can enjoy a pool without extra expenses.
Do you need to fence an AG pool?
It’s a whole lot of hassle and extra expense for something that can easily be avoided with an AG pool. In most areas, if your pool is at least 48” above ground, then you don’t need to fence it off. No protective barriers are required as the height of the pool acts as the safety measure.
Why install an above ground pool in the ground?
Why install an Above ground pool in the ground? Because doing so offers homeowners the best of both worlds. Above ground pools are less expensive, easier to maintain, and don’t increase your property tax. And by recessing one into the ground, you get the look and feel of an inground pool for a lot less money.
What is the best way to put an above ground pool in your backyard?
When putting an “ inground above-ground pool” in your backyard, go with a swimming pool that uses slats or panels for a pool wall. Traditional above ground walls are mostly one thin sheet of steel that comes all rolled up (rolled wall). Obviously iron is prone to rust and rot!
How to make an above ground pool look like an inground pool?
Step 1. Sink your above-ground pool into the ground two-three feet. Step 2. Backfill to the top of the pool and lay pavers or build a deck to the hight of the top of the swimming pool.
How much cement do you need to install an inground pool?
Of course, if you can do any or all of this installation work for yourself, you will save on the job. Installing an Optimum or Radiant Pool inground require a 1-foot of cement around the base of the wall. That will add to the cost and aggravation of any installation.
What is the above ground pool called?
Aquasport Pools LLC has another above ground swimming pool called the Admirals Walk. It has to be built with its aluminum deck and fence as they are part of the construction of the swimming pool, but it can also be installed as deep in the ground as it makes sense too.
How many pools can be installed semi-inground?
There are only four pools that can installed semi-inground, and three above ground models you can use like an in-ground pool kit. All for of these pools were in my top-10 best above ground pools article here.
Can iron pool liner rust?
Obviously iron is prone to rust and rot! Plus there is just no strength to hold back the dirt if you lose the water in your pool. A pool liner leak, or if you need to replace the pool liner may lead to your pool wall caving-in.
