New Pool? Don’t Get In Over Your Head

Many people would consider installing a back yard pool if it could be made affordable and easy to maintain. As it happens, both are possible, within obvious limits.

The first option is an in-ground pool, usually made of concrete and tiled at the waterline. Given a choice, most would-be pool owners would rather have an in-ground pool. They appear--and are--more substantial, but they are also more expensive. A base price of about $20,000 is common for a medium-size pool. These prices sort of slam the door on many families.

At the opposite end of the spectrum are the small, above-ground models sold by discount stores. These shallow, steel-walled pools (usually round and measuring about three by 15 feet) can be purchased for less than $200. These are, at best, starter pools, meant mostly for splashing and wading. The broad middle ground of the pool market is claimed by larger, more elaborate above-ground pools.

While still viewed askance from some circles, these pools can offer the best of two worlds. They can be large enough to accommodate real swimming, while remaining quite affordable, especially when installed by the homeowner.

It is possible to buy an oval or rectangular steel-walled pool, in the 15-by-30-foot range, for about $2,000--pump, ladder and filter included. If you’d rather have a professional do the installation, add $500 to $1,000 to the deal.

Most medium-size, above-ground pools run in the $1,200 to $2,500 range, though some pool packages, with installation and specialty equipment, can reach $8,000 to $14,000. On the other hand, if a quality smaller pool will work for you, the material costs can dip as low as $600 to $800.

Keep in mind, however, that the lower figures are for the pool and basic equipment costs. City codes and insurance companies may well require fencing and possibly some additional safety equipment.

You may also wish to upgrade the water-treatment system to one that requires less maintenance. And because above-ground pools can appear a bit stark, many homeowners build decks around them, which naturally adds to the total cost.

In addition to modest initial costs, above-ground pools may offer some less obvious long-term savings.

Because they are considered portable, or at least removable, they do not usually raise property taxes.

In contrast, an in-ground pool is considered a permanent capital improvement, and its contribution to the value of the property will be taxed accordingly. Site limitations may also come to bear.

Narrow side yards, mature landscaping and rocky soils all favor above-ground pools.

And finally, because above-grounds are portable, they can be removed when you move or when the kids are grown and leave home.

On the downside, above-ground pools are not diving pools. While some are available with one deep end, above-grounds are primarily swimming and wading pools. Moreover, every pool can be dangerous, no matter how diligent you are.

For that reason, it’s a good idea to raise the liability limit on your homeowner’s insurance. While the premium increase is usually modest, it is an increase.

And no matter which cleaning system you choose, you’ll need to budget some money for upkeep. This should include the electricity needed to run the filtering-system pump eight to 12 hours a day, plus chemical costs.