Above Ground Pool Inground: Pros, Cons & Cost Comparison 2024

Homeowners dreaming of summer fun often face a dilemma when their ideal spot for a pool is above ground. While the structure provides easy installation and lower upfront costs, the desire for a seamless, integrated look in the yard leads many to ask: can you put an above ground pool inground? The short answer is yes, but it is a major undertaking that requires careful planning and understanding of the challenges involved.

Why Bury an Above Ground Pool?

The primary motivation for installing a pool below the surrounding grade is aesthetics. An above ground model left as-is sits as a literal landmark in the landscape, which some homeowners feel detracts from the natural beauty of the yard. By excavating soil around the walls, the pool can be integrated into the topography, creating a sleek, modern edge that resembles a custom in-ground design. This elevation also allows for built-in seating, effectively adding a deck area without constructing additional stonework.

Structural Integrity Concerns

Before deciding to bury an above ground pool, you must evaluate the wall design. Above ground pools rely on thin steel or aluminum walls that are engineered to resist water pressure while resisting outward bowing when the pool is empty. Once surrounded by earth, the pressure shifts; the soil exerts constant lateral force on the walls. If the structure is not specifically reinforced for this application, the walls could collapse under the stress, leading to catastrophic failure and potential injury.

The Excavation Process

Assuming the wall structure is verified as safe for burial, the physical work begins with excavation. This involves digging a trench around the perimeter to a precise depth required to bury the wall height. The bottom of the hole must be perfectly level to ensure the pool maintains its shape. Because the pool is already assembled, the excavation must be done carefully to avoid scraping or puncturing the liner, which would result in immediate leaks that are difficult to repair underground.

Backfilling and Drainage

After the pool is lowered into the trench, the space around it is backfilled. This is not simply a matter of shovelling dirt back in; proper technique is required. Layers of soil must be compacted in stages to prevent the walls from buckling under the uneven weight. Furthermore, a sophisticated drainage system is critical. A failure to manage groundwater can cause the pool to float out of the ground or hydrostatic pressure to build up behind the walls, eventually causing cracks or bursts.

Finishing and Integration

Once the soil is backfilled and compacted, the final step is to create a seamless transition between the pool wall and the surrounding yard. This usually involves installing a concrete coping or decking at the top edge to hide the rugged cut of the steel or aluminum. Landscaping is then added to soften the lines, but the area immediately around the buried section must remain firm; settling soil on top of the buried wall can create uneven pressure and push the structure out of square.

Long-Term Maintenance Implications

Even after a successful installation, the pool requires different maintenance than a standard above ground model. Accessing the wall for cleaning or liner replacement is now a labor-intensive process involving digging. If a leak occurs, diagnosing whether it is in the liner or the structural wall is more complex. Moreover, if you ever decide to move the pool, the buried version is essentially a permanent fixture, requiring demolition to remove.

Alternatives to Consider

For those enamored with the idea of a built-in look without the risks of burying a residential above ground pool, transitioning to a true in-ground vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete pool is a viable option. While the initial investment is significantly higher, the result is a structurally sound, long-term asset that adds substantial value to the property. Treat the buried above ground concept as a temporary solution rather than a permanent upgrade to ensure satisfaction over the lifespan of your backyard.