Investing in an above-ground swimming pool is a fantastic way to bring a touch of leisure and luxury to your outdoor living space. Not only is it a more affordable option compared to in-ground pools, but it is also easier to install and maintain.
Whether you’re looking to cool off on a hot summer day or host a fun pool party with your friends and family, an above-ground pool is an inviting addition to any backyard.
If you’re struggling to find the perfect above-ground pool for unlevel ground, look no further. We understand that finding the right pool can be a daunting task, which is why we’ve done the legwork for you.
Our team of experts has invested over 70 hours of thorough research and carefully reviewed the top 7 best, most popular, and trustworthy above-ground pools available on the market today.
With our comprehensive review, you can rest assured that you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision and select the best above-ground pool that suits your needs, preferences, and budget.
So, get ready to dive into the world of above-ground swimming pools and enjoy a summer filled with relaxation, fun, and entertainment right in your own backyard!
7 Best Above Ground Pools for Unlevel Ground in 2023
1. Bestway 10ft x 30 Inches Above Ground Round Metal Frame Swimming Pool (Best Pick)
Anticipate an enjoyable summer with family and friends as this above ground pool can accommodate up to 7 people and is suitable for children above 6 years old.
With its durable and rust-resistant construction, this pool is designed to withstand the test of time without fear of collapsing or dents. Its 3-ply PVC adds strength and stability, ensuring a safe and long-lasting swimming experience.
Setting up the pool is a breeze, taking only 30 minutes to assemble without the need for a handyman or any tools. It also features a convenient drain valve that allows for easy water drainage, and can be effortlessly connected to a garden hose to discharge water to a desired location.
This exceptional quality pool boasts a capacity of 4485 liters and comes with ample support when needed. Take the plunge and enjoy a worry-free summer with this exceptional pool.
Why we recommend this:
- Offers easy assemble time.
- The suction power pump works great.
2. Intex 12ft x 30in Super Tough Above Ground Pool with Metal Frame + Pump
Introducing the Summer Wave Above Ground Pool – a must-have for those looking to spend quality time with their loved ones in the comfort of their own backyard. With its impressive size, this pool can accommodate the entire family, providing endless hours of fun and relaxation.
Crafted with a focus on both aesthetics and functionality, the Summer Wave Above Ground Pool is beautifully designed to enhance the appearance of your backyard. Its circular shape, with a diameter of 12 feet and a depth of 2.75 feet, provides ample space for swimming, playing and lounging around.
With a water capacity of 1,600 gallons, you’ll have plenty of room to splash and have fun. The inclusion of a filter pump, attached to the sidewalls of the pool, ensures easy maintenance and crystal clear water all summer long.
Setting up the pool is a breeze thanks to its user-friendly installation features, allowing you to be swimming in under 30 minutes.
Durability is a key feature of the Summer Wave Above Ground Pool. Made from triple-layered polyester mesh and heavy gauge material, it’s built to withstand even the most turbid conditions, giving you peace of mind and the ability to enjoy your pool for years to come.
Overall, the Summer Wave Above Ground Pool is the perfect addition to any backyard oasis. With its impressive size, beautiful design, easy maintenance, and long-lasting durability, it’s an investment in your family’s summer fun that you won’t regret.
Why we recommend this:
- Easy setup process.
- You will get value for your money.
- The faux design is appealing.
3. Premium Intex 16.5ft x 9ft x 48in Best Above Ground Pool for Unlevel Ground
Looking for a way to make the most of your summers, even year-round? Look no further than the Intex Prism Frame Pool. With its premium features and durable construction, this pool is the perfect way to cool off and enjoy the season no matter the weather.
One of the key features of this pool is its long-lasting 3-ply material liner. This liner provides excellent stability and ensures that your pool will be able to withstand years of use. Additionally, the steel frames of this pool have been powder coated to prevent rust and ensure that you get the most value for your money.
When it comes to keeping your pool clean and clear, the Intex Prism Frame Pool has you covered. It comes with a powerful cartridge filter pump that can move up to 330 gallons of water in an hour. And with an installation process that takes just half an hour, you can start enjoying your pool right away.
With a capacity of 1,185 gallons, this pool is perfect for small families or those who want a relaxing place to cool off on hot summer days.
So if you’re looking for a high-quality pool that will provide years of fun and enjoyment, consider the Intex Prism Frame Pool. With its durable construction, easy installation, and powerful filter pump, it’s the perfect way to stay cool and have fun all summer long.
Why we recommend this:
- Comes with a debris cover.
- The ladder is removable.
- The clear cartridge clears up to 1,500 gallons in an hour.
4. Summer Waves Elite 18ft x 48in Above Ground Pool for Sloped Yard
This above-ground pool is built to provide a safe, clean, and refreshing swimming experience in the comfort of your own backyard. Its Super-Tough laminated PVC sidewall is a durable and reliable material that ensures the longevity of the pool.
The Krystal clear cartridge filter pump is the perfect companion for this pool, providing excellent filtration that ensures the water remains crystal clear and free of contaminants. Additionally, the pool is equipped with a safety mechanism that shuts off the electricity when water is detected, ensuring your safety at all times.
The pool also comes with a one-year warranty, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your purchase. The crystal clear cartridge pump is another bonus that ensures the water remains clear and refreshing.
When it’s time to drain the pool, the drain valve conveniently connects to a garden hose, allowing you to direct the water to the desired location.
It’s important to note that this pool can hold up to 1,178 gallons of water and should not be set up on loose soil or sand. The dual suction of this pool ensures excellent water hygiene, keeping the water clean and fresh for your swimming pleasure.
Overall, this above-ground pool provides a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a safe and refreshing swimming experience at home.
Why we recommend this:
- Easy setup of the pool.
- The pool material offers durability.
- You get value for your money.
- The liner is tough enough.
5. Summer Waves 12ft x 33in Large Family Size Above Ground Swimming Pool
Introducing the prism frame pool, designed to provide an outstanding swimming experience in the comfort of your own backyard. This pool boasts a unique combination of affordability, durability, and ease of installation that makes it the perfect addition to your outdoor space.
Crafted with powder-coated metal frames, this pool is built to last. The rust-resistant coating on the frames ensures that they will withstand the test of time, while also adding an elegant touch to the pool’s design. This premium feature ensures that you get a high-quality pool design that is both practical and attractive.
The pool floor has been reinforced to provide exceptional longevity, ensuring that you and your loved ones can enjoy the pool for years to come. This thoughtful feature means you won’t have to worry about the pool’s base weakening over time, or the need for constant maintenance.
To make your swimming experience even more enjoyable, the pool comes equipped with a powerful filter pump. With a flow rate of 1,500 gallons per hour, the pump ensures that the water stays clean and clear, free of debris and other impurities. This feature ensures that you can enjoy the crystal-clear water all season long.
The pool has a generous capacity of 6,423 gallons, which means you can invite your family and friends over for a refreshing dip. With the pool ready to be filled with water in just an hour, you won’t have to wait long to jump in and enjoy the cool water on a hot summer day.
In conclusion, the prism frame pool is the perfect choice for anyone looking to create a fun, relaxing outdoor space. Its affordable price point, durable construction, and easy installation make it an ideal investment that will provide countless hours of entertainment and relaxation for years to come.
Why we recommend this:
- A durable liner.
- The material is sturdy.
- Easy for maintenance.
- Affordable, you will get value for your money.
6. Best Intex 10ft x 30in Above Ground Swimming Pool + Filter Pump
The ipool D set is an excellent choice for those who desire a high-quality pool that is both durable and compact. With a small 6 square meter footprint, it is ideal for placement in tight spaces such as a garage or a smaller backyard. However, please note that you will require a space of 9′ x 12′ x 7′ to set it up properly.
The pool frame is constructed with high-quality metal that is coated with zinc, providing exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. The five-layer polyester weave further ensures longevity and resilience in the face of regular use.
One of the most unique features of this pool is its dual-patented tether system, which allows for easy adjustment of the jet streams with a simple turn of a knob, effectively eliminating any noise that may come from the motor.
The ipool D set also includes a floor sheet that is installed prior to setting up the pool, which takes approximately an hour to complete. Additionally, a lockable stainless steel ladder is included, providing secure access in and out of the pool. To keep the water warm, a powerful 5.5-kilowatt heater is also included in the set.
In summary, the ipool D set is an excellent investment for those seeking a durable and compact pool that is easy to set up and operate, with features such as a dual-patented tether system, a lockable ladder, and a powerful heater to keep the water warm.
Why we recommend this:
- The heater works great.
- You will get the best quality with this pool.
- Responsive team.
7. Bestway Power 18ft x 48in Best Above Ground Pool with Pump & Aqua Vacuum
the Bestway Power Steel Above Ground Pool – an exceptional addition to your backyard oasis that will provide endless summer fun for you and your loved ones.
Measuring up to 18 x 9 x 4 feet, this spacious pool can comfortably accommodate up to ten individuals at once, making it perfect for hosting pool parties or spending quality time with family and friends.
Crafted from premium-grade steel, the pool’s frame is built to withstand the test of time and resist damage from harsh outdoor elements, ensuring long-lasting durability and reliability.
Furthermore, the pool comes equipped with a powerful pump that can effortlessly filter and circulate water, maintaining optimal water quality and hygiene.
To further enhance your experience, the Bestway Power Steel Above Ground Pool comes complete with several essential accessories, including a ground cloth to protect your lawn, a sturdy ladder for easy access in and out of the pool, and a garden hose drain adapter for effortless water draining.
Setting up the pool is a breeze and requires no additional tools, thanks to its straightforward assembly process. The PVC walls of the pool feature support band wraps that provide exceptional stability and support to the structure, ensuring that the pool remains in place and maintains its shape for years to come.
In conclusion, the Bestway Power Steel Above Ground Pool is the ultimate choice for anyone seeking an exceptional and hassle-free pool experience.
With its superior quality, ample space, and versatile accessories, this pool is sure to exceed your expectations and provide countless hours of summer fun for years to come.
Why we recommend this:
- Great support bands.
- You will get durability.
Final Verdict
During the summer months, there’s nothing quite like taking a refreshing dip in a pool to beat the heat. Among the various options available, the 10-foot x 30 inch round metal frame backyard above ground swimming pool truly stands out from the rest.
One of the most noteworthy features of this pool is its spacious design, which provides ample room for both adults and children to swim and play without any worries of collapsing. This is made possible by the pool’s exceptional durability, which is a result of the carefully chosen materials used in its construction.
Another key attribute that sets this above-ground pool apart is its remarkable ease of installation. In just thirty minutes, you can have the pool set up and ready to go, without requiring any special tools or expertise.
Additionally, this pool boasts an impressive capacity of 4,485 liters of water, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a refreshing swim in cool, clear water. And when it comes time to empty the pool, a convenient drain valve is compatible with a garden hose, allowing you to direct the water wherever you need it to go.
Overall, the 10-foot x 30 inch round metal frame backyard above ground swimming pool is an exceptional choice for anyone looking to beat the heat and enjoy some outdoor fun during the summer months.
Its durable construction, spacious design, and ease of installation make it a standout option among all other above-ground pools.
10-foot x 30-inch round metal frame backyard
Conclusion
If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, but building an in-ground pool seems like an unaffordable luxury, you’ll be happy to know that above-ground swimming pools offer a more affordable and convenient option.
With their accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and ease of installation, these pools are a great way to cool off and enjoy the sunshine without breaking the bank.
One of the main benefits of above-ground swimming pools is their affordability. Not only do they have a lower initial cost than their in-ground counterparts, but they also require less maintenance and upkeep, which can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
With an above-ground pool, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of swimming without the hefty price tag.
Moreover, these pools are easy to install and can be up and running in a matter of days. Unlike in-ground pools that can take months to complete, above-ground pools can be set up quickly and easily, with minimal disruption to your yard.
Plus, they can be taken down just as easily, making them a great option for those who are looking for a temporary solution.
Another advantage of above-ground swimming pools is that they are suitable for people of all ages. With an age limit of 6 years, these pools are perfect for families with young children who are looking for a safe and fun way to cool off during the summer months.
And with a variety of sizes available, you’ll be able to find a pool that can accommodate everyone in your family at the same time.
Finally, it’s important to remember that safety should always be a top priority when using an above-ground swimming pool. Be sure to follow all safety precautions, such as installing a fence around the pool and ensuring that children are always supervised when in or near the pool.
In summary, above-ground swimming pools offer a more accessible, cost-effective, and convenient option for beating the summer heat. With their easy installation, suitability for all ages, and affordable price tag, they’re a great way to enjoy the benefits of swimming without the added expense and hassle of an in-ground pool.
Just remember to prioritize safety at all times, and you’ll be able to enjoy a fun and refreshing summer in your very own pool.
Can you put an above ground swimming pool on unlevel ground
The setting up of the above ground pool will require the leveling up of the ground first making sure it is flat. An unleveled ground is likely to cause problems when setting the pool. The problems include.
- The water levels will be uneven. With a few inches of the pool not being level may not be a serious issue. You will experience some deeper end of your pool and could pose danger to kids. The skimmer too will be affected as it will not be able to maintain the cleanness of the water as it will not be able to cover all locations.
- The pool walls will be greatly be affected as the uneven level will have the water settling on one side of the pool. This section will be tasked with more weight and will have the walls on that side bend and with sometimes twist or collapse.
- You will get damaged pool liners when setting on an uneven surface as it will have wrinkles that are irritating to straighten out when setting up the pool which will at some point lead to leaks making the pool undesirable for use.
Having to assemble the pool on your own without professional help could be a great problem and your pool will be susceptible to leakages, wrinkled pool liners and with the pool being wrongly assembled.
You may consider getting professional help with leveling the ground to help you avoid all the mishaps in the long run. This will ensure your pool last longer as there will be no breakages.
What should I place under my above ground pool to level
Originally most of the above ground pools were leveled up at the bottom. This track provided room for all walls to fit into, with the leveling o the track it ensured the walls of the pool are in place.
There are videos on the internet that show how you level your pool. They offer advice on the materials to use for leveling the bottom of the pool.
The use of a makeshift material that is long enough made by two-by-four wood which is nailed together to fit the length needed for the radius of the pool.
They proceed to tape a four foot level on the wood to mark out where to attach the wood hammered to the ground where the pool will be placed. The wood should be able to turn all round from the center with the main purpose to level the ground.
This technique is quite time consuming but allows for the leveling the ground and may not be accurate. The important part is the bottom track which will ensure the level is great.
The option of dishing out the bottom of the pool where the center will be gradually deeper which will allow for easier maintenance of the pool.
The option of having blocks under the pool is also considered to provide for providing a flat level. What we are seeking is to generally have a flat surface to have the above ground pool on a leveled surface.
Always have in mind that the bottom track has to be leveled at all times and not the base inside the pool. The bottom track being in the right shape will allow the pool to look great allowing it to last longer as it should.
What is the easiest and best way to level the ground for a pool
For you to enjoy the pool during summer without worries of the pool not lasting long you have to take into consideration leveling the ground before the set up of the above ground pool. An above ground pool requires a leveled ground for you to enjoy the pool.
This task will take a lot of time to have a completely leveled ground, and do so with patience. You will need the following to have the job done;
- A hammer
- A Metal spike
- Spray paint with a vertical nozzle
- A couple of Shovels
- A Wheelbarrow
- A 1-inch by 6-inch length of wood
- A Duct tape
- A 4-foot Carpenter’s level
- 4-inch nail
- Metal snip
- Crushed limestone
- Garden hose
- Hand tamper
Have the metal stake hammered at the center where you wish your pool to be located. Ensure you check with the building codes and follow the set stipulations o having the pool installed.
Proceed to have a string of length 6’ which should be longer than the radius of the pool. Have the spray paint can tie at the end of the string marking the perimeter of the area to be leveled.
Get rid of the grass and any other vegetation of the marked area using a shovel. Use the wheelbarrow to ferry the dirt away. Come up with a wooden plank that will be used for the leveling up of the ground.
Let the wood have the measurement of 1’ by 6’ which should be 6’ inches longer than the radius of the pool. Have a 4’ nail hammered halfway into the plank and have the nail head on the opposite side of the level snipped off.
Have the metal removed from the center and replace it with the 2’ square stake with the ground. To pivot around the pool have the wood plank 4’ hammered into the center of the 2’ square.
Look for the lowest point of the pool and have all the rest of the area leveled to that. This is because when leveling the pool area it is easy to remove the sand compared to adding of the soil since the weight of the pool will squeeze away the soil, so consider digging down to the lowest point.
Have the wooden plank pivot around the pool area and dig down to level the area where you will have the level at 360 degrees at all levels Get limestone crushed and have it spread over the pool area and have it wet using a garden hose as you stamp. Make use of the wood plank to level the crushed limestone base.
Finally have the wood plank and the 2’ wood stake removed and have the hole filled with limestone to level base.
Note. Take our time to have the area leveled well. The firm-level base will ensure the pool stays strong all the time.
How many inches of sand can I need for an above ground pool
Sand is a crucial item when building the level base of a pool even though fact that the thought of sand draws you to the beach. Sand is important as it will enable you to have a stable and leveled base for an above the ground pool to sit on.
It serves as a protection layer between the ground and the pool liner. Sand is the best option to go for as it will ensure no tear on the pool liner.
The other advantage of using sand is, it is used to clean the pool water as it able to catch debris preventing it from getting into the pool water.
The sand you ought to use for the leveling the base ought to be very fine and should not have any rocks or pebbles in it. This sand could be identified as mortar sand or mason sand. You may also opt for the concrete sand which also serves the purpose.
For the filter sand, kindly go through the manual and have a look at the recommended sand filter for the particular pool with the grains of the sand being 0.45mm to 0.55mm.
The main concern is the amount of sand you will need for the right construction of your base. There is a set rule of 2’ to 3’ below for the above ground pool. If you are aware of your pool area you will be able to calculate the amount of sand you will need for this job.
Be sure to take note of the shape of your pool, either circular or rectangle, and have the measurements with you.
The sand calculator will figure out the volume and the weight of sand needed for your base and you will be able to find the total cost of the sand if you are aware of the price per tone.
Having this tabulation will allow you to budget effectively for your pool construction. Once you can purchase the sand and it is with you at home, there are tips you can use to have the sand leveled easily.
Consider dampening the sand using your garden hose. This will make the sand more compact and easier to lay.
Have the sand in the pool track and not under it, making it easier to spread it across the pool area.
Make use of the back of a rake to move around the sand and smoothen it. Have the sand compact by using a soil tamper.
Will above the ground pool more likely to collapse is not leveled
Leveling the base area of the pool is a crucial part of having an above the ground pool to work effectively. The unleveled ground will cause the pool to collapse and this will stop the summer fun. This is seen since you will have problems with the;
Pool walls.
An uneven surface will lead to uneven pressure on the walls of the pool and will have it placing more pressure on one side of the walls of the pool.
The uneven weight distribution will have the walls of the pool twisted and collapsed causing damage to the pool and anything around it.
The presence of the inflatable ring on the above the ground pool will likely fold with increased pressure and some point the pool with solid side panel could fail.
Uneven water levels
The presence of an unleveled base will have you uneven above ground pool which will result in uneven water levels. In the beginning, the difference will be a few inches but with time it will keep on increasing with the use of the pool.
The deeper side of the pool may pose danger to toddlers. If the skimmer of your pool is not covered halfway it will not function correctly. The skimmer will not be able to clean the water if it ends up on the shallow end.
The liner damages
The uneven area of the pool will damage your above ground pool liner as the liner will not be able to lay flat on the level. There will be folds and wrinkles on the liner which could be hooked to pool equipment that will have it ripped.
A pool vacuum will have a problem cleaning the wrinkled liner ad may ruin it. A ruined liner will be of no help to our pool and your pool will be susceptible to constant leaking.
The level installation is a crucial part of having an above ground pool set up. Get space away from trees and other structures in your compound. Make use of sand to create a compact base for the pool area.
Consider having a professional to create a level area if you do not have one. This will help avoid foreseen damages on your property. It will help your pool last longer and it will be of great service to you.
Does an above ground pool must be perfectly leveled
The popular mistake made by individuals is the construction part of the base for the above ground pool. This is the foundation of your pool and having a rough or rocky foundation will not do justice to your pool.
Individuals are scared of the tough job and will have the sand lay on the grass skipping the removal of grass and sod. This eventually cost the owner as the base will not be fit for the pool. Your ground pool has to be perfectly leveled.
This may prove to be a great task even for a professional since different pools in different locations have different dimensions and one leveled base may be different from another.
This difference poses a big challenge even to the most knowledgeable professional with most of the construction base manuals being useless.
The manuals procedures mention leveling the pool leaving room for an inch or half an inch. A pool base level missing an inch is okay and will not have much of an impact but it could be noticed at the waterline.
Unleveled pools by more than an inch will appear slanted with two inches showing the difference from outside the pool. In cases where your backyard is not flat, it may be a bit challenging to tell if there is a distinction on the levels of the pool.
Missing two inches will not cause a major structural issues but going beyond two inches will be creating havoc in your backyard.
More than two inches on the leveling of the pool will see your pool collapse and will pose a danger with the pushing of the walls of the pool out of shape with each swim.
For extreme cases the pool will likely collapse from pressure. Missing three inches more will have your pool taken down for the ground to be leveled well and reinstalled.
Your safety should come first when having fun. The swimming pool should be safe for you and all others with the installation of the pool ought to be far away from trees and other obstruction.
Make use of sand for the leveling the ground, and make sure the sand is well packed, with the help of a professional your pool will be safe and will last longer.
How do I prepare my back yard for an above the ground pool
After finalizing the design and the shape of your above ground pool with location to have your pool, you need to set up the location of where the pool will be set up.
The location should be away from all obstruction be it structural or nature. The first step for the preparation of the yard will be;
The Location
Having the pool in the backyard would be a great idea for your pool location. Ensure the surface you pick to locate the pool does not have any rocks or sharp objects. Take note of the distance of the pool from your house or trees or other kinds of plantation.
Clear the Area
The surface should be cleared off all objects that could pose a danger to your pool. Sharp objects and stones should be cleared off as they may cause puncture on your above the ground pool. Be sure to inspect the ground thoroughly.
Take Measurements
Have the diameter of the space to be occupied by the pool taken. Use a measuring tape to mark the area. To prevent the string from blowing away, place a rock on it.
Planning enables you to make a decisive decision as you will not change the plan once you start digging this area.
Dig up
With the help of shovels, dig up the marked area where you will be placing the pool. Cart the dirt away from the area.
The large shovels will help with the huge dig up with the small shovels coming in place to enhance the details of the area. Take measurements of the depth which should be 2’ deep for great pool location.
Leveling the pool hole
To make sure the hole dug up is leveled make use of a level to measure it up. This level will be able to show whether the hole is uniform all through.
In the place where the level is not the same, have the location dug up. Get rid of the dirt so you can measure the level of the hole and get it accurately.
24 hours wait
After the digging up job is completed, let the hole be for 24 hours without any disturbance. This will assist with the scrutiny of the hole being level all through.
Inspect it the following day to be sure to make sure it is level. You can proceed with placing the above ground pool on the area.
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