Steel frame pools, on average, will last between 5 – 10 years, depending on various factors.
Typically, a steel above-ground pool purchased from a "big box retail store" can last up to 10-15 years, but liners usually last about 5-8 years and it may be necessary to replace other equipment like the ladder, pump and filter as needed, too.
Another advantage that many people appreciate is that a steel pool does not require as much cleaning as concrete or fiberglass pools. If properly maintained, you can expect your steel framed pool to last a decent 10 to 20 years. One disadvantage of steel frames is that they are prone to rust.
Whether you're looking for an above ground pool with steel, hybrid, or resin components, Backyard Oasis has the most durable options for every category and every budget. The market average life of an above ground pool may be shorter than you think at about 7-15 years.
The stability of the metal frame pool makes it less likely to sag to one side or spill water over the sides, as long as it is sitting on level ground. This increased stability can also make a metal frame pool safer, although adult supervision is always critical when children are in the pool.
A metal frame offers more stability, with less risk of spilling or collapse. Plus, the pressure of the water within the pool contributes to the metal frame's structural integrity. With more durability, metal frame pools are less likely to experience punctures or damage from sharp or abrasive objects.
The Intex Prism Frame Pool is an excellent and affordable way to get a pool in your backyard. Intex became very popular for its Easy Set Pools. The company decided it was on to something and wanted to expand its market, but it couldn't do that with the air ring pool. The sides aren't sturdy enough for the larger sizes.
Typically, the much less expensive soft-sided type (Intex/Coleman) above ground pools last 1 – 3 seasons on average. The more traditional metal-walled above ground pools last between 10 – 20 years. The much more expensive true semi-inground extruded aluminum walled pools can last decades.
A common question asked is, “Can above ground pools stay up year round?” And although the easy answer is that “Yes, they can,” whether you want to leave them up year-round really depends on the type of pool you have. Dismantling some above ground pools for the winter may be more hassle than it's worth.
Aluminum does not tarnish or rust and has an extremely high strength-to-weight ratio. It also becomes stronger and retains its toughness as it gets colder. Aluminum pools will generally last 2 to 3 times as long as a steel pool depending on the models.
A well-maintained concrete pool should last around 50 years or more. And a well constructed in-ground concrete swimming pool should last a lifetime. But, a pool's liner or finish won't last long. And thus, an in-ground concrete pool will need to be resurfaced every 10 to 15 years.
Generally, pool water needs to be replaced once every five to seven years. This should be done during mild weather so that your pool surface is not at risk from strong sunlight and heat. Your pool maintenance company can recommend when it is time to drain your pool.
Best Overall: Intex Ultra Frame Rectangular Pool Set
A best-seller of all above-ground pools on the market, the Intex Ultra Frame Pool Set comes with everything that you need to set it up and start splashing. It comes in three size options that allow swimmers to find a pool that will work for their backyard space.
With saltwater, we expect this pool to last just two summers before the salt rusts the frame.
The intex and coleman pools are just labeled with those brand names. Both pools are actually manufactured by best way. So there is truly no difference in the pools. Regular maintenance and care of the pool will get you 4 to 5 years of use.
The Balancing Act of Pool Maintenance
The typical lifespan of a vinyl liner is anywhere from 15-20 years and where your liner falls in that range depends, most crucially, upon your proper maintenance of the pool's chemistry.
Leaving your Intex pool out in colder temperatures can completely rupture your pool lining. That's a mess you don't want to clean up or repair. And if the damage is bad enough, you may not be able to repair it at all.
In warmer climates, Intex advises to keep your pool up, if you prefer. However, you must winterize the pool when keeping it full throughout the winter. If your area maintains tropical climates all year long, you may not need to winterize your pool at all, especially if you use your pool on a regular basis.
If you have a vinyl-lined above-ground pool, leaving it full for the winter will protect the vinyl liner from shrinkage and other damage. Since these pools are above ground level, keeping them full ensures that the wind will not damage the walls, liner, or frame.
Many have reported that although their Easy Set Pool only lasts 1-3 seasons, they're happy to replace it because they love it and the purchase cost is so low. Being able to cool off in the hot summer weather.
The 24-foot x 12-foot x 52-inch Intex Ultra Frame Pool Set is the ideal size for a backyard, above-ground pool. It is big enough to hold a small party, but not so big that it requires a professional installation.
While durable and easy to assemble, the Prism Frame pools feature all of the great benefits of Metal Frame pools, and are enhanced with strong powder-coated steel tubing and a stylish and upscale looking liner color. Constructed with puncture resistant 3-ply material.
A permanent pool will stay in your backyard year-round. Closing procedures are done to prepare the pool for a winter of non-use), followed by opening procedures the spring. Temporary pools are made of less sturdy materials (sometimes they're even just inflatable) and can be disassembled and stored inside for winter.
You shouldn't expect your Bestway Fast Set Pool to last more than four years. The air ring stretches with use.