How to Choose the Right Size and Shape for Your Steel Above-Ground Pool

Steel above-ground pools have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their versatility and ease of installation. They now hold about 30-40% of the market share in the above-ground pool industry. These pools have become popular since they are long-lasting, easy to install, and cheaper than in-ground pools.

Many homeowners regret buying a pool because of its wrong size and shape. Forty percent of pool owners later regret their choices regarding these factors. This might give a better idea of why choosing the correct swimming pool shapes and sizes is crucial in maximizing your investment.

This article will focus on the most popular swimming pool shapes and sizes and guidelines for choosing the perfect one. Having read this article, you can select the right pool that is appropriate for your space and serves your family's needs, yet you don’t have to spend much money.                                             

Why Size and Shape Matter for Above-Ground Pools

When choosing the above-ground swimming pool, a few things must be considered. Below are some key factors that make these choices significant:

Functionality

The size of your pool directly affects its functionality. Specifically, pools more than 24 feet in diameter are perfect for families or holding some events. A larger pool is preferable if you host frequent gatherings. Homeowners like their pools to be bigger when used for entertaining guests and family members.

Space Utilization

Shape is another important factor concerning space efficiency when deciding on pool construction. Round swimming pools are 30% more space efficient than oval ones, which can be especially helpful if you have smaller yard space in the back. This makes them ideal for homeowners with little outdoor space but wish to have a spacious pool.

Aesthetic Appeal

The shape of your pool is another feature that dictates the overall appearance of the backyard. For instance, oval and rectangular pools are preferred for privatization over any other design. These shapes are unique and stylish, and most people want a swimming pool that blends seamlessly with their backyard’s beauty.

Energy Efficiency

Selecting an improper pool size also has its hidden costs. Large pools are costly in terms of energy as they may take up the remaining space in your compound. With the increase in pool size, the energy expense can rise to 15-25%. This is because of extra power consumption concerning heating and filtration systems.

Common Swimming Pool Shapes for Steel Above Ground Pools

But what are the most commonly used shapes for an above-ground swimming pool? Let's talk about some of them:

Round-Shaped Pools

Benefits:

Affordable and Easy to Maintain: Round pools are more common than others because their costs are lower than those of oval or other types of pools. Many homeowners will find them affordable, ranging from $3,500 to $5,000.

Common Sizes: They differ in size and may reach 12-33 feet in diameter.

Limitations:

Not Ideal for Large Groups: Round pools are excellent for relaxation; however, such pools are not well suited to swimming laps or group entertainment.

Oval-Shaped Swimming Pools

Benefits:

Great for Fitness and Families: Oval pools are perfect for swimming or for families with children and adults who need a pool for exercise and fun. The size can vary from 12×24 ft to 18×40 ft so that people will have enough space all the way around.

Space-Efficient: Oval pools are more efficient than rectangular pools, making them ideal for a narrow backyard.

Limitations:

Higher Installation Costs: Oval pools are generally more complicated than round pools, so installation costs are likely to be 15-20% higher.

Rectangular Pools

Benefits:

Perfect for Exercise and Games: A rectangular design is regularly the most suitable for people who wish to swim in the pool or play games. These pools are stylish and glamorous and are usually considered more flexible.

Limitations:

Requires More Yard Space: Rectangle pools take more space around the yard than round or oval ones; thus, they are not suitable for compact yards.

Custom Shapes

Overview:

For those people who are in search of something different, there are many more spectacular shapes for pools, such as kidney-shaped or figure-eight shapes. These pools can also be used to give an individual touch while increasing the aesthetic of the backyard.

Limitations:

More Space and Higher Costs: Due to their complexity, custom shapes often require 20% more space and can result in higher installation costs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Pool Size

Many parameters are vital when selecting the size of the pool. Let’s look at each of them:

Available Space

To choose the right swimming pool shapes and sizes, consider the size of the place in your backyard. It is recommended to have space of about 2-3 feet around the pool for safety measures and for convenient access to maintain this structure.

Oval pools are perfect for small yards, as they do not waste a lot of space and allow using all the territory. On the other hand, round pools can consume more space, and this is a big issue in small backyards.

Intended Use

The purpose of your pool should heavily influence your choice. Small pools up to 15 ft in diameter will do fine if you only plan to have them for relaxation and to accommodate a small number of people.

But, if you need a pool for family or recreational purposes or for organizing some bigger parties, a pool should be more than 24 feet long. Similarly, oval-shaped swimming pools are common for fitness center swimming pools because they allow swimming laps.

Budget

Cost is the most visible factor when purchasing an above-ground pool. Steel above-ground pools cost roughly between $3500 and $8000 to install, depending on size and design. It is crucial to note that different shapes or bigger pools may attract high installation costs and extra expenses for maintenance, which may cost between $500 and $1200 per annum.

Local Regulations

Be careful of the local zoning and pool regulations. Some regulations concern the size and location of the pool; any violation results in fines starting from $100 up to $500. In addition, there is always the local law that should be considered to try to make your pool fit the legal requirements.

Visualizing Swimming Pool Shape Ideas in Your Space

One of the best ways to learn how the pool will fit in your yard is by drawing the perimeter on the ground using markers or chalk. This lets the user decide how much space it will occupy and how it will visually fit on the particular landscape.

There are also online design tools that enable you to introduce changes to the pool plan layout and get an impression of its appearance.

Keep in mind that landscaping and decking may require up to 20% more space to initially allocate. It is seen that oval and rectangular shapes prove suitable for narrow yard designs as they provide better utilization and enhancement of the looks. These small measures can guarantee not only that the pool matches your backyard layout but also that the pool enriches the plot's design.

Benefits of Steel Above Ground Pools for Different Shapes and Sizes

Installing steel above-ground pools has several advantages, which make such pools practical and durable. They have a lifespan of between 10 and 20 years, much longer than resin or aluminum pools.

External pressures and corrosion are also twice as low as in steel pools, and therefore, these structures are long-lasting and can be used in difficult conditions. Due to their sturdy design, they can be conveniently used in regions characterized by extreme temperatures or variable pressure of water supply.

Also, it is worth mentioning that in many steel pools, anti-rust paints are used, which can increase the lifespan of the pool by 30%. Such coatings give protection against rust and deterioration to make the pool more powerful and safe for years. Whether round, ova,l or rectangular shape, the steel above-ground pools offer the necessary rigidity and durability for the pools to be used for so many years while retaining their use and beauty.

Pros and Cons of Popular Above-Ground Swimming Pool Shapes
Here’s a quick summary of the pros and cons of the most common above-ground swimming pool shapes:

Round Pools

• Pros: Inexpensive, requires low upkeep, and is good for limited spaces.
• Cons: Limited space for fitness and large groups.

Oval Pools

• Pros: Great for fitness, efficient in narrow spaces.
• Cons: Higher installation costs.

Rectangular Pools

• Pros: It is perfect for exercise, and it also has a modern style.
• Cons: Requires more yard space.

Custom Shapes

• Pros: Unique, customizable designs.
• Cons: Higher cost and space requirements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selecting Size and Shape

To ensure you make the right decision, avoid these common mistakes:

Overestimating available yard space: It is always wise to take your measurements when planning your pools to avoid getting them wrong.

Ignoring maintenance costs: Special shapes and especially highly oversized pools cost more in terms of maintenance, so this has to be taken into consideration when deciding on a budget.

Choosing shapes unsuitable for intended use: If a person wants to swim, especially laps, a round pool is not the most ideal design. Ensure that the shape fits the intended use.

Conclusion

It is important to do your research well when selecting the right swimming pool shapes and sizes to suit your needs. The space, the amount of money you will be willing to spend, and even the purpose of installation will help you decide. 
When it comes to above-ground pools, steel is preferable due to features like durability, energy efficiency, and a relatively long lifespan. The most common swimming pool shapes are round, oval, rectangular, and custom shapes. Knowing how they can benefit and challenge you will help you get closer to your ideal backyard swimming pool.