A Deeper Look at Pool Options
If you live in a place like Las Vegas, where the heat is intense and the sun shines for most of the year, the idea of having your own swimming pool becomes more than a daydream—it becomes a practical way to stay cool and enjoy your backyard. But when it comes time to choose the type of pool to install, many homeowners find themselves debating between two main options: inground pools and above ground pools. Each has its advantages, costs, and long-term considerations.
Understanding the key differences between these two types of pools can help you decide which is the best fit for your space, lifestyle, and budget. While both provide a refreshing escape from the desert heat, the experience they offer, both in design and use, can vary significantly.
Installation and Construction
Perhaps the most obvious difference between an inground pool and an above ground pool is how it’s built. Inground pools are permanent structures. They are dug directly into the ground and typically made of concrete, gunite, fiberglass, or vinyl-lined steel. The construction process is longer and more involved, requiring excavation, plumbing, and sometimes even electrical work. Because of this, inground pools take several weeks to complete, from initial planning to the final water fill.
Above-ground pools, on the other hand, are quicker to install. Many are sold as kits that can be assembled in just a few days, and some homeowners even tackle the installation themselves. They sit on the surface of the yard and can be dismantled or relocated if needed. This makes them an appealing choice for those looking for a temporary solution or who don’t want to commit to a major home improvement project.
That said, the permanence of an inground pool can add value to your home, especially in a hot climate where pools are a major asset. Above-ground pools are generally not considered long-term property enhancements and don’t typically impact home resale value.
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Cost Considerations
The price difference between inground and above-ground pools is one of the biggest deciding factors for many homeowners. Inground pools are a serious investment. Depending on size, design, and materials, installation can range anywhere from $35,000 to over $100,000. Factors such as landscaping, decking, lighting, and special features like waterfalls or spas will also increase the cost.
Above-ground pools are far more affordable. Most cost between $1,500 and $10,000, with higher-end models still staying well below the price of an entry-level inground pool. Because they require less labor and site preparation, the upfront expenses are significantly lower. However, many above-ground pools have a shorter lifespan and may need replacement after 7 to 15 years, depending on quality and care.
Inground pools, when properly maintained, can last several decades and continue to enhance the enjoyment and value of the home for years.
Aesthetic and Design Flexibility
Aesthetics are often where inground pools shine brightest. These pools can be custom-designed to suit nearly any shape, depth, or style. Whether you want a sleek modern rectangle, a freeform natural oasis, or something in between, an inground pool can be tailored to match your vision. Materials like natural stone, tile, or concrete finishes allow for elegant details, and landscaping can be integrated seamlessly to create a true backyard retreat.
Above ground pools, by contrast, are limited in design. Most are round or oval, and while there are some stylish models on the market, they often stand out as separate features rather than blending into the landscape. Homeowners can improve the appearance with decking, plants, and siding, but the design flexibility simply doesn’t compare to what an inground pool offers.
Usage and Features
Inground pools also tend to offer more versatility in use. They can include deep ends for diving, shallow lounging areas, built-in seating, or even connected spas. Heating systems, saltwater conversions, and automation are commonly added, allowing users to fine-tune their experience. Because they are built into the landscape, they also offer easier entry options, such as beach-style walk-ins or wide steps.
Above ground pools are usually shallower—typically no more than 52 inches deep—and aren’t designed for diving or extended lap swimming. However, they are still great for casual play, floating, and staying cool. For families with small children, the shallower depth and above-ground positioning may offer peace of mind, although safety precautions are still essential.
Climate and Location Considerations
In Las Vegas, where temperatures regularly exceed 100°F and sunshine is a year-round feature, having a reliable pool is a smart move. The climate supports long swimming seasons, often stretching from March through October, and an inground pool allows you to make the most of it.
Many homeowners searching for inground pools Las Vegas want something that stands up to the sun, wind, and occasional dust storms while enhancing their property and providing year-round enjoyment. Inground pools are well-suited to desert environments, particularly when designed with energy-efficient systems and water-saving features. They can also be shaded or partially covered to reduce evaporation.
Above ground pools, while functional, may struggle in such extreme heat unless properly maintained and covered. Their external walls can heat up quickly in direct sun, and the materials may degrade faster in the arid climate. Still, for some homeowners, especially those renting or planning to relocate, an above ground pool offers a manageable, cost-effective way to beat the heat without a long-term commitment.
Maintenance and Longevity
Both types of pools require regular maintenance, but inground pools often feature higher-end equipment that makes the process easier or more automated. Systems for cleaning, balancing chemicals, and filtering are usually more advanced and can even be controlled via smartphone apps.
Above ground pools require manual effort to clean, monitor chemical levels, and protect from sun exposure and debris. Covers are especially important in a place like Las Vegas to keep the water cool and clean. The shorter lifespan of materials also means replacement parts—or an entirely new pool—may be needed sooner than with an inground setup.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between an inground and above ground pool ultimately comes down to your goals, your budget, and your vision for the space. Inground pools offer durability, beauty, and custom luxury, making them a favorite for homeowners ready to invest in their forever home. Above ground pools, meanwhile, offer quick relief, affordability, and flexibility for those who want the benefits of a pool without the permanence.
No matter which option you choose, adding a pool in Las Vegas is a smart move. It turns your yard into a private oasis, helps you stay active and cool, and makes life in the desert not just bearable, but thoroughly enjoyable.
