Dreaming of a backyard oasis to relax and cool off? A frame pool might be just what you need. Affordable, easy to set up, and durable, frame pools have become a favorite for families across the U.S.
But how do you choose the perfect pool for your needs and yard? This guide breaks down the key factors to consider when selecting a frame pool and provides practical advice to ensure a summer full of swimming fun.
Why choose a frame pool?
Frame pools are above-ground pools supported by a sturdy metal frame and a durable liner. Theyāre lightweight yet strong, offering excellent value for money and many other benefits.
- Affordable: Frame pools range in price from $100 to $2,000, making them an economical choice for families or individuals.
- Easy to Assemble: No need for professional installationāmost frame pools can be set up in just a few hours.
- Portable: Frame pools can be disassembled and stored during the winter, freeing up yard space and ensuring they last for many summers.
It requires a relatively short assembly time without needing professional intervention. Furthermore, frameĀ pools are generally portable. This allows you to disassemble and store them in your garden shed during the winter season and then reinstall them.
Criteria for choosing a frame pool
A better choice of frameĀ pool needs to consider several decisive criteria for your comfort.
Shape
FrameĀ pools are available in different shapes (rectangular, round, and oval). Each shape has specific advantages and drawbacks.
Rectangular
The rectangular frameĀ pool offers more swim area and an elegant aesthetic. They are ideal for swimmers who wish to do laps and for those who have enough space in their garden. Rectangular frameĀ pools also allow the installation of accessories such as safety ladders and protective tarps.
Round
The round frameĀ pool is very easy to install and perfectly suits small spaces. They offer a smaller swim area but are more friendly and allow better circulation in the water. Moreover, round frameĀ pools are generally affordable compared to rectangular models.
Oval
The oval frameĀ pool combines advantages of rectangular and round models. They offer a larger swim area than round pools, while being easier to install than rectangular ones. Oval frameĀ pools are perfectly suited for elongated gardens.
Dimensions/Size
When choosing your frameĀ pool, it's important to consider the dimensions and size of the pool based on the available space in your garden. Carefully measure the spot where you wish to install the pool to choose the right size. The pool depth is also an important element to consider.
If you have young children, a pool with a shallower depth may be more reassuring. Consider some models equipped with numerous accessories, such as a safety ladder. Conversely, if you wish to swim and dive, a pool with a greater depth will be more appropriate.
Filtration Type
The filtration of water is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy pool. FrameĀ pools can be equipped with different filtration systems, such as cartridge filters and sand filters. Cartridge filters are simple to maintain and suitable for smaller pools. They trap impurities using a filtering cartridge that just needs to be cleaned or replaced regularly.
Sand filters are more efficient and suitable for larger pools. They use sand as a filtering agent to capture impurities. Sand filters require more detailed maintenance, such as backwashing the sand, but they provide more effective filtration.
Lifespan
The lifespan of a frameĀ pool depends on various factors, such as the quality of the materials used in its construction and the care it receives over time. Generally, by following the manufacturer's recommendations and regularly maintaining your frameĀ pool, you can enjoy it for 4 to 10 years.
Material plays a crucial role in the durability of the frameĀ pool. Opting for a model made with high-quality materials, such as durable galvanized steel tubing and a resistant liner, will increase its longevity. These materials are designed to withstand weather conditions, UV rays, and chemicals used in water treatment for the pool.
Budget
The budget is obviously an important criterion when choosing a frameĀ pool. There are models for every budget, from entry-level pools to high-end pools with numerous accessories. Set a budget before starting your search and choose a pool that matches both your needs and means.
How to install and maintain your frameĀ pool?
How to install a frameĀ pool in your garden
Installing a frameĀ pool requires certain precautions. First, ensure that the ground is perfectly level. Any slight slope can compromise the pool's stability. Make sure your terrain is flat. Then, clean the area to remove stones, roots, and other objects that might damage the pool liner. Find more details in our article "on what to place a frameĀ pool."
Also, ensure the pool ground is properly leveled. Make the surface of your yard smooth and horizontal. A frameĀ pool should not under any circumstances be installed on a sloped surface. Follow carefully the instructions provided by the manufacturer in the assembly guide for quick pool assembly.
Take care to properly secure the tubes and the edges, and ensure that the frame is firmly in place. Once the pool is installed, it is essential to ensure its proper maintenance to fully enjoy your pool.
How to maintain your frameĀ pool
Maintaining your pool is crucial if you want to benefit from its durability. Regularly clean the walls and bottom of the pool. Use a skimmer, a brush, or even a pool robot to remove leaves, insects, and other impurities that might accumulate in your pool.
Ensure the water volume is sufficient for the pump to function correctly, but not too high to avoid overflow, conducted by skimmers. Then, proceed with the water treatment. Equip yourself with pH and disinfectant tests. Maintain an appropriate chemical balance by adjusting the chlorine levels, bromine, or other treatment products if necessary.
Properly balanced pH and disinfectant levels are necessary to prevent algae formation, bacterial growth, and the premature deterioration of your liners. Furthermore, regularly take action to clean the filtration cartridge. The returning nozzle allows you to reinject the water that was drawn by the skimmers and the bottom drain. It also helps create a current in the water and push the present impurities. This prevents debris from becoming stuck and clogging it.
You can also carry out the backwashing of the sand filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This process cleans the sand by reversing the water flow through the filter, thereby eliminating accumulated dirt and impurities. Finally, a high-quality protection cover can be used to cover the pool and shield it from leaves, debris, and weather conditions. This will also prevent rainwater accumulation, which could damage the pool structure.
Choosing a frameĀ pool is an important decision that requires considering multiple criteria. Indeed, you must consider your needs, your budget, as well as the shape, dimensions, filtration type, lifespan, and maintenance of the pool. Installing a frameĀ pool requires preparation and diligence. But once in place, you can enjoy family swims all summer long.
Remember to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintaining your pool to extend its lifespan. This also ensures clean and healthy water for the entire family. So don't hesitate, choose a fantastic frameĀ pool and dive into a refreshing and enjoyable summer around the pool!
