History and Trends of Above Ground Pools


Current trends indicate that more and more people are into creating an outdoor experience in their own backyard. This includes above ground swimming pools and in ground swimming pools.

For those on more limited budgets, the above ground pool has come to the rescue. The affordable above ground pool has enabled thousands to enjoy back yard recreation with family and friends.

Strong sales
Research shows that swimming pools in ground still outnumber swimming pools above ground. But sales of above ground pools remain remarkably strong and continue to grow each year. Pools above ground may not be as desirable to some people, but that doesn't mean they are inferior to in-ground pools.

Bells and whistles
Retailers say another trend in the market is that above ground pool buyers are now purchasing high end models with all the bells and whistles. It used to be only the low end above ground swimming pools that sold. Consumers are currently spending more on swimming pools above ground and more on decking, and all the above ground pool supplies that are sold with it.

Malibu Round Above Ground Pool - 52 in. Deep

High end customers
As a result, the typical above ground pool customer has changed. Retailers are no longer targeting only the low-end blue collar market, but upscale shoppers as well. With all the new styles available, it's amazing to see how people are making a pool above ground look just as aesthetically pleasing as an in-ground pool.

More choices
One of the ways retailers have overcome the trend is by offering a wider choice of above ground pool models, products and swimming pool accessories. Some of the improvements include:

  • Wider and deeper. Models still come in basic round or oval, but the selection of sizes available are wider and deeper than they used to be.
  • Pool liner styles. Above ground pool liner styles have also improved. There is now a large selection of patterns from simple blue to realistic looking tile motifs.
  • Filtration systems. New above ground pool filtration systems require less work and leave the pool cleaner than the old styles.

Also, because of the many improvements made on pools above ground, retailers are seeing people who have bought an entry level pool in the past, coming back to get bigger and better models available now.