Swimming pools come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. Two popular options for above ground pools are soft-sided metal frame pools and inflatable pools. Both have their pros and cons, so let's dive into what makes each one unique.

Size

If you're looking for a pool for the kiddos, an inflatable pool might be the way to go. These pools come in smaller sizes, perfect for little ones. But if you're looking for a bigger pool to lounge in with the whole gang, consider a soft-sided metal frame pool. Some of these are as large as traditional above ground pools.

Cost

Soft-sided metal frame pools are pricier than inflatable pools. Generally, the larger the pool, the higher the price tag. However, they're made to last, so you can enjoy your pool for years to come. While inflatable pools are more budget-friendly, they may need to be replaced more often.

Convenience

Need a pool you can set up and take down in a jiffy? Look no further than an inflatable pool! These pools are super easy to set up and take down. Be aware that the air pressure in an inflatable pool can change over time and you may need to re-inflate it occasionally. Also, inflatable pools can leak a little water as you&#;re getting in and out, or sustain a puncture. While many holes can be fixed, your pool may be temporarily &#;closed for repairs.&#; Soft-sided metal frame pools also are relatively easy to install, but set up takes a little longer. Once up, a soft-sided metal frame pool is more stable.

Equipment

Inflatable pools don't require any special equipment or tools, although you will probably want to invest in an electric air pump. Soft-sided metal frame pools will need a pump and filter system, as well as a ladder for getting in and out. These extra items are an added expense, but they're worth it for a pool that will last.

Maintenance

Both types of pools need some TLC, like regular cleaning and checking the water chemistry. Soft-sided metal frame pools require a bit more maintenance because they have more parts and components that need to be checked and cleaned.

Upkeep

Maintaining a soft-sided metal frame pool can take a few hours each week to clean the liner and keep the water clean and chemically balanced. Upkeep on an inflatable pool is less involved. Either way, it's important to keep the water clean and chemically balanced to keep everyone safe and healthy.

Safety

As with any swimming pool, water safety is always a concern, so it's important to follow safety guidelines and always supervise children. Soft-sided metal frame pools should be anchored securely, and inflatable pools should be placed on level ground to prevent them from collapsing.

Optional Equipment

Some inflatable pool owners prefer to buy a pump or ladder for convenience and safety. You can add covers and heaters to soft-sided metal frame pools to help keep the water temperature comfortable. For either type of pool, you&#;ll surely be tempted to toss in some floats and water toys to extend your water fun.

Both soft-sided metal frame pools and inflatable pools have their perks. Ultimately, the right choice for you will depend on your needs, budget and lifestyle. Consider all the factors, like size, cost, convenience, required equipment, maintenance, safety and optional equipment to find the pool that will help you keep your cool this summer.

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We&#;ve all seen an increase in the &#;blow-up ring&#; pools peppering backyards across the country.  Heck, I&#;d say that at least half of the time when we show up to install an inground fiberglass pool, there&#;s a circular imprint on the ground where a blow-up pool used to be.

I guess it was time for a slight upgrade :)

But the question is this:  Is it possible that a $300&#;$500 blow-up pool actually requires more time and money to maintain than an inground fiberglass pool?

The answer is a resounding, &#;Yes!&#;

How is this possible?  Blow-up pools are a fraction of the size and therefore have far less water and hold far less bathers.

Here are 2 Reasons Inflatable Easy Set Pools Are Difficult to Maintain

1. Inadequate filtration

Inflatable Easy Set pools come with a grossly undersized pump and filter system.  This makes it almost impossible to keep the water clear and algae free.  Folks often find that inordinate amounts of chlorine and other chemicals are required to keep the water usable.  The problem is that both adequate filtration and chemicals are required to keep a pool in tip-top shape, and during the hottest months of the year, chemicals simply can&#;t compensate for the poor filtration that occurs in blow-up pools. 

2. No way to properly vacuum the pool

Pools with a proper pump and filter system utilize the suction from the pump to vacuum the pool. This is done by connecting a hose to the skimmer and simply vacuuming all the debris from the bottom of the pool into the filter.

A blow up pool has no skimmer, and the provided cartridge filter couldn&#;t handle that amount debris even if it did.  So the designated way to &#;clean&#; these pools is to attach a pressure cleaner to your garden hose which blows the debris off the floor of the pool into an attached bag.  Needless to say, this is a losing battle&#;.it&#;s virtually impossible to properly clean the pool in this manner.

So, what you end up with is a pool that is virtually impossible to keep clean and clear.  But hey, for $300-$500 what can you expect right? It gets you a pool in the backyard, and that&#;s all most folks are looking for.  Look, I fully understand that we&#;re talking about two opposite ends of the pool budget spectrum here, but here&#;s my point: 

These inflatable easy set pools feed the common misconception that POOLS = MUCHO MAINTENANCE. Don&#;t buy into that antiquated paradigm&#;fiberglass pools are easy, the easiest on the planet. 

Why Fiberglass Pools Are Easier to Maintain

1. Inground Fiberglass Pools are naturally algae deterrent  

The surface is non-porous, which means there&#;s nowhere for algae to embed.  This means less chemical use and less brushing the sides&#;.so far so good.

2. Inground Pool filter systems are often oversized

This means more than adequate filtration, which as we remember, is half of the clear water equation.  Where you often have to clean inflatable pool filters daily, with our oversized cartridge filters, most pool owners only have to clean their filters several times a season. 

3. Vacuuming is a breeze

Great horse power + great equipment = easy cleaning and vacuuming.

Well that&#;s it!  As we can see, inground fiberglass pools actually are easier to maintain than inflatable easy set pools. Another mystery of the universe uncovered here at River Pools. 

Comments, Questions, Disagreements&#;all are welcome!

At River Pools, we manufacture world-class fiberglass pools for customers across North America. If you're interested in upgrading to a fiberglass pool, you can browse our pool gallery, try out our pool pricing calculator, or request custom pricing using the link below!

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2. No way to properly vacuum the pool

Pools with a proper pump and filter system utilize the suction from the pump to vacuum the pool. This is done by connecting a hose to the skimmer and simply vacuuming all the debris from the bottom of the pool into the filter.

A blow up pool has no skimmer, and the provided cartridge filter couldn&#;t handle that amount debris even if it did.  So the designated way to &#;clean&#; these pools is to attach a pressure cleaner to your garden hose which blows the debris off the floor of the pool into an attached bag.  Needless to say, this is a losing battle&#;.it&#;s virtually impossible to properly clean the pool in this manner.

So, what you end up with is a pool that is virtually impossible to keep clean and clear.  But hey, for $300-$500 what can you expect right? It gets you a pool in the backyard, and that&#;s all most folks are looking for.  Look, I fully understand that we&#;re talking about two opposite ends of the pool budget spectrum here, but here&#;s my point: 

These inflatable easy set pools feed the common misconception that POOLS = MUCHO MAINTENANCE. Don&#;t buy into that antiquated paradigm&#;fiberglass pools are easy, the easiest on the planet. 

Why Fiberglass Pools Are Easier to Maintain

1. Inground Fiberglass Pools are naturally algae deterrent  

The surface is non-porous, which means there&#;s nowhere for algae to embed.  This means less chemical use and less brushing the sides&#;.so far so good.

2. Inground Pool filter systems are often oversized

This means more than adequate filtration, which as we remember, is half of the clear water equation.  Where you often have to clean inflatable pool filters daily, with our oversized cartridge filters, most pool owners only have to clean their filters several times a season. 

3. Vacuuming is a breeze

Great horse power + great equipment = easy cleaning and vacuuming.

Well that&#;s it!  As we can see, inground fiberglass pools actually are easier to maintain than inflatable easy set pools. Another mystery of the universe uncovered here at River Pools. 

Comments, Questions, Disagreements&#;all are welcome!

At River Pools, we manufacture world-class fiberglass pools for customers across North America. If you're interested in upgrading to a fiberglass pool, you can browse our pool gallery, try out our pool pricing calculator, or request custom pricing using the link below!

Up Next:

25 Small Inground Pool Ideas for All Budgets

What&#;s the Best Small Fiberglass Pool for Your Needs? Costs, Sizes, Features

Above Ground Pools: Types, Prices, Dimensions

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