Discussions

Hey folks,  
 
Who here has experience setting up and maintaining an above ground pool in their yard. I'm looking at possibly getting a round 12' and I'd like some insight into the time and effort I would require to prep and install, and in maintaining it. Any tips or advice would be appreciated.  
 
Thanks

Round are much easier then oval as the don't have support columns. You need perfectly flat ground and a proper foundation. Improper foundation can lead to a rip in the liner that could catastrophically tear destroying your basement and possibly neighbors basement as well. It is very important these steps are done correctly for the longevity of your pool. Your insurance company may also have issues with you building it yourself rather then a experienced and insured builder. To get the ground perfectly flat you need expensive surveying equipment. I'd recommend you get a experienced builder like Pool Doctor to at least help with building the fondation. Erecting the pool, doing the plumbing and electrical are the easy parts. If you know what your doing all of these parts could be done by yourself. You can obtain a homeowner electrical permit to legally wire the pump yourself.

Check the rules and requirements with the city also.  
Above ground pools of certain height reguire all around fencing.  
As far as maintenance goes there is not much except that after use by ones not of your immediate family you should add more clorine (Javex)  
And when you drain the pool in the fall always leave bout 6" a water in it over winter. No I DO NOT have a pool but I have enough friends that do.

I wouldn’t do what previous poster suggested.. use the proper products not javex, I used algaecide/chlorine pucks, they’re easy and drain pool just below the skimmer not 6” from the bottom or your walls will cave in and get damaged. Walls need pressure from water for strength.. good idea to have a pro open the pool in spring and winterized it in fall, it’s worth it until you feel comfortable doing it yourself, IMO