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Choose an above-ground swimming pool for your garden oasis, and you may be splashing about before you know it.
During a hot Australian summer, you either want to know someone with a pool in their backyard or, better yet, have your own. While many swimming pool options can take months to be realised, a big drawcard of an above-ground pool is the speed with which it can be installed, enabling you to be swimming sooner and making the most of sultry days. To help you dive in, here’s our cheat sheet covering size, style and upkeep of above-ground swimming pools.
Before the pool party invites go out, step one is planning where the raised pool will go. A solid, level surface is necessary, says Mark Rushton of Bestway pools. “It’s important to measure your available space to help determine which pool style and size suits the area,” he says.
The location of trees in your yard is another consideration when deciding on the perfect spot for your above-ground pool. Driclad’s Brooke Foster says while their shade may keep your swimming pool cooler on hot days, leaves in the water mean maintenance. “Pools should always be installed at least three metres from trees or any climbable objects,” she adds.
You’ll also need to allow for access around the perimeter, a pump and compliant pool fencing with an outwards-opening gate. Whether you prefer glass or metal, there are a range of swimming pool fence panel options, designed for DIY installation, available in store, online or at the Special Orders Desk at Bunnings Warehouse.
Before proceeding with your above-ground swimming pool though, don’t forget to check fencing requirements with your local authority. And be aware that any pool with a water depth of more than 300mm will likely require a building permit, so consult your local planning authority for pool construction information and ensure your plans will meet regulations.
Tip: To get swimming sooner, organise your fencing materials as early as possible, so they can be delivered and your fencing installed at the same time as your pool.
Choosing a chlorine, saltwater or mineral system for your backyard pool comes down to personal preference. Mineral pools are associated with great water quality, yet the high running costs can be a deterrent. “Chlorine is the most popular option but can sometimes cause irritation for those who may have skin allergies,” says Mark.
Saltwater systems require fewer chemicals and chlorine products to maintain water quality, which means less time and effort required to balance the sanitation levels and less outlay on chemicals, explains Brooke. ”But to prevent and minimise damage, ensure pool accessories, furniture and plants are salt-friendly, and closely follow pool maintenance guides,” she advises.
During summer, make sure you test pool water at least once a week, and twice a week during high bather loads, advises Nathan Hallahan of Hy-Clor. Don’t forget as well that Bunnings offers free in-store water testing so that you can receive fast, accurate results and information on the right chemicals in the right quantity to help keep your above-ground swimming pool in the best condition.
“You can take a water sample in the Hy-Clor vial into Bunnings, and use the 4-in-1 test strips at the Hy-Clor kiosk to test the water,” he suggests. “You’ll then receive results and advice on what to do to balance your pool water and keep it sparkling.”
Nathan also recommends maintaining a water level at least halfway up the skimmer box and setting up a preventative maintenance regime. This includes adding a long-life algaecide and phosphate remover to help control algae.
Tip: “Cleaning the pool with a manual vacuum will help you keep on top of debris that can affect the water chemistry,” says Nathan.
With a few capable hands, installation is often straightforward for above-ground pools, with everything you require included in the kit.
Tip: A licensed tradie is essential for any hardwired electrical work.
Above-ground pools come in a range of sizes, price points, colours, materials and shapes. For a temporary set-up you can pack away in the cooler months, a thick-gauge PVC liner with steel frame is ideal, whereas if you’re after a more permanent fixture, a durable steel-wall or resin model can be a great investment. Here’s our pick of the different styles.
The budget friendly Bestway Steel Pro Max, for space challenged backyards, comes with a filter pump, ladder and pool cover. For even more compact spots, a great plunge pool solution is the Swim 3.6m x 1.2m Splasher pool, also sold as a kit.
Tip: To keep water clear and dip-ready, have a pool scoop on a telescopic pole nearby.
Want to frolic and float on inflatables? Go for a larger oval or rectangular pool, from about 5m long by 3m wide, with a capacity of 13,000-18,000 litres.
Tip: “To help stop evaporation and keep out debris, shield the pool with a cover when not in use,” suggests Mark Rushton.
A permanent structure offers year-round enjoyment – so look for UV-resistant pool materials. The steel structure of Baracuda’s Laghetto range is concealed by wicker exterior panels, a stylish solution that sits harmoniously within a green space. Available as 4.4m x 2.4m and 5.4m x 3.4m, these come with pump, filter, ladder, light, manual cleaning vacuum and DIY installation fittings.
Tip: Add a vibrant splash to your pool party with colour-change floating solar lights.
Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.
Check out our essential pool maintenance guide.
Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.
Photo Credit: Getty Images, Driclad and Baracuda
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
