Pools FAQs

When you decide to install a new pool at your home, you will have many pool types to choose from. These different types of pools will vary in style, size, and cost, which provides options for all homeowners no matter what their budget is. The different pool types include:

• Above-Ground Pools: Above-ground pools sit entirely above the ground and are not built into the earth, making them very easy to set up. Because they require very minimal installation, above-ground pools are often the most affordable pool option.
• Inground Pools: Inground pools are built entirely into the ground, requiring digging, excavation, and an extensive installation process. Because of their construction, inground pools are often the most durable option but are also the most expensive.
• Onground Pools: Onground pools give you the look and feel of an inground pool without the higher price tag. These pools are semi-inground, sitting slightly above the ground and partially in the ground. They can be installed faster than fully inground and look great paired with different types of decking surrounds.

If you are planning to install an above-ground pool at your home, the ground must be level. If it is not level, it can cause numerous issues with the base of the pool as well as for the liner and the water levels. It isn’t fun to have a pool with water spilling over one end due to high water levels, while the other end is very shallow. It is not only an inconvenience, but it is also unsafe and can cause damage to the pool.

Your pool filter needs to run long enough in a single day to filter all the water in your pool. The length of time required will depend on the capacity of your pump and the amount of water in your pool. In most cases, the ideal running time for a pool pump is eight hours. This way, it can run all day to clean the pool water and will be done by the end of the day. To determine how long your pump will need to clean all the water in your pool, you need to know your pump’s turnover rate or the gallons per hour (GPH) it can filter, as well as the amount of water your pool holds (volume). Divide the pool’s volume by your pump’s GPH, and you will be able to determine the number of hours your pump needs to run to clean all the water in the pool. If you have a small pool and a larger pump, you may be able to run it for less than eight hours a day. If your pool is larger and has a smaller pump, you’ll have to run it for longer than eight hours a day. It’s best to find a pump that only requires you to run it eight hours a day or less to save on energy costs.

Both round and oval pools can be very strong provided that they are constructed properly, using the right framing and liners. The decision between a round or oval pool really comes down to personal preference and what will fit best in your space. If you have limited backyard space, you’ll want to pick the style that is able to properly fit while still following local regulations. In most municipalities, these regulations require four to five feet between the pool and fencing. These regulations could make the difference when deciding which style of pool works best for your home.

Having a pool at your home comes with many responsibilities, including cleaning. Keeping your pool clean will help prevent health concerns, like the risk of disease and infection, and will also create a more enjoyable swimming experience. To keep your pool clean, the filter should run every day for as long as necessary to clean all the water in the pool. In addition, you should use the pool net daily to skim off any leaves or debris that may have fallen in the pool. You’ll also want to empty the strainer baskets daily to remove any larger debris that could hinder the circulation of water.

All cities and municipalities have different rules regarding permits for above-ground pools. If you live within the Birmingham city limits, you will likely need a permit to install an above-ground pool at your property. You can check with your local planning and zoning department if you need more information about permit requirements.