The Beauty and Durability of Wood Grain Above Ground Pools

The Beauty of Wood Grain Above Ground Pools

As soon as the weather starts warming up, many homeowners start dreaming about having a refreshing swimming pool in their backyard. Above ground pools offer an affordable and low maintenance solution without requiring major landscaping or construction projects.

The Warm and Natural Look of Wood

Wood grain above ground pools provide a beautiful, natural look that blends seamlessly into backyard environments. The wood finish adds warmth and character that cannot be achieved with traditional metal-walled above ground pool options.

Wood grain pool panels are available in a variety of realistic-looking wood finishes like cedar, redwood, pine, and oak. The wood look brings the coziness and aesthetic of an interior wood cabin outside to your backyard oasis.

Durability and Low Maintenance

Despite their natural appearance, wood grain above ground pools are not actually constructed from wood. The wood look is a printed laminate that is bonded to a steel wall structure. This provides the beauty and visual appeal of wood with the durability and longevity of steel.

The wood grain laminate is sealed and protected, making it highly resistant to fading and environmental damage from sun exposure, moisture, and pool chemicals. With occasional cleaning, a wood grain pool wall will maintain its like-new appearance for years before needing to be re-finished.

A wood grain above ground pool requires the same low maintenance as a traditional metal-walled pool. There is no need to stain, seal, or regularly replace wood planks like you would with an actual wooden structure exposed to outdoor elements.

Creating a Backyard Oasis

A wood grain above ground pool surrounded by a nice deck creates a beautiful backyard paradise for relaxation as well as entertainment. The natural wood pool finish and decking blend beautifully with trees, gardens, fencing or any backyard décor.

Adding some poolside lounge chairs, perhaps under an umbrella, along with some sparkling string lights circling the pool deck completes the oasis. A wooden poolside bar with some bar stools makes a great place to mix some poolside summer cocktails. With the right accessories, a wood grain above ground pool becomes a backyard vacation destination without having to leave home.

Wood Grain Pool Installation

Installing a wood grain above ground pool is very similar to traditional metal-walled pool installation. Following proper installation techniques ensures the pool sits level, with walls properly aligned and braced. Taking appropriate safety precautions prevents potential pool damage and injuries.

Site Preparation and Layout

After selecting an appropriate spot in your yard, prepare the site by removing any debris, leveling the surface, and laying down crushed stone leveling pads. Use stakes, chalk lines and careful measurements to lay out the oval shape of your pool according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Check around the marked outline for levelness and make any necessary adjustments by adding or removing soil. Remember to account for adding 3"- 4'' of crushed stone later beneath the pool bottom rails.

Bottom Rail and Wall Installation

Set the curved bottom rails in place over the leveled crushed stone base. Temporarily secure rails together while ensuring proper alignment and oval uniformity. With the bottom rails in place, the wall panels can be set up, aligned, connected and secured.

Use stakes, braces and temporary support beams to hold the wall panels steady, properly aligned and uniformly oval while the panels and vertical posts are all connected. Follow manufacturer's instructions carefully during this crucial stage.

Finalizing the Structure

Once all panels are secured together, the remaining top ledgers, top rails and wall caps can be installed. Attach any eyelets, ropes, ladders, skimmers and water return inlet fittings according to your pool model requirements. Finish backfilling around the pool with crushed stone, carefully tamping to stabilize the structure.

At this point, verify again that the pool walls and bottom sit completely level. Filling and balancing the water level may reveal any areas that still need leveling attention.

Maintenance for Long-Lasting Enjoyment

An attractive, properly installed wood grain above ground pool provides years of summer memories with friends and family. Taking good care of your pool keeps it looking pristine while ensuring safe, healthy and sparkling clean water for soaking up the sun.

Water Treatment Basics

Following a regular routine of testing and treating the water establishes good pool hygiene. Check and adjust chemical levels for proper pH, alkalinity, chlorine and other sanitizers. Brush and skim regularly to remove debris and maintain clear water.

Clean out basket skimmers and pumps as needed to ensure good water circulation. Backwash filters when pressure rises. Drain and refill water periodically or as directed to keep the right chemical balance.

Structural Care

Make sure water remains well-balanced to avoid damage to pool components. Drain water to proper levels when not in use for long periods. Routinely check components and connections for wear, leaks or Needed repairs. Tighten any loose bolts or fittings.

Periodically wash down the wood grain laminated walls with mild soap and water using a soft cloth. Rinse well. Apply vinyl cleaner and sealants as needed to protect and renew the wood grain finish according to manufacturer recommendations.

Watch for pool punctures, tears or liner disconnects. Drain water safely before attempting any pool liner repairs.

Safety First

Never allow diving or jumping into an above ground pool. Ensure ladders and handrails remain securely in place. Invest in proper safety nets, barriers, alarms and flotation devices. Clearly post and enforce all safety rules.

Implement temporary fencing with self-latching gates to restrict unsupervised pool access. Never permit swimming alone or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Follow all local regulations for health codes, access and security.

By regularly caring for your wood grain above ground pool, watching for needed maintenance and following sound safety practices, your backyard oasis will provide cherished summertime memories for years to come.

FAQs

How long will a wood grain pool last?

With proper installation and routine maintenance, a wood grain above ground pool will last for 15-20 years before needing any major repairs or renovations.

What kind of maintenance is required?

Typical maintenance includes monitoring/treating water chemistry, cleaning debris from skimmers/pumps, brushing pool walls, backwashing filters as needed, and periodically renewing the protective sealant on wood grain laminate.

Is a wood grain pool safe for kids?

Yes, with proper precautions like safety nets, pool covers, alarm systems, secured gates/fences around ladder areas, and constant adult supervision during swimming.

How often should I drain and refill the pool?

Pool water should be partially or fully drained and refilled every 3-5 years depending on usage to maintain proper chemical balance and ensure sanitary conditions.

What permits do I need for installation?

Building permits are not always needed but be sure to check your local municipal codes. Electrical permits are required for outlets, lighting, pumps and filtration equipment hook ups.