Above-ground or in-ground pool: which one to choose?

An in-ground pool requires complete excavation of the ground to accommodate its structure and basin. It allows you to create a swimming area that blends seamlessly into your yard and outdoor landscaping. At Club Piscine, several options are available: steel or polymer pools with vinyl liners, fiberglass pools, and modular concrete pools. Each type has its advantages in terms of customization, design, and installation. The choice depends notably on your property, your budget, and the desired pool style.

Installation begins with the excavation of the ground, followed by the placement of the structure or shell. The plumbing and electrical equipment are then installed, and the area around the pool is filled and leveled to stabilize its structure. The liner is installed as needed before filling the pool. Finally, the pool area is landscaped to complete the installation.

The benefits of an in-ground pool at a glance:

• Complete integration into the landscape and landscaping
• Custom sizes, shapes, and depths
• A permanent structure, with longer warranties
• Water that retains its heat better

An in-ground pool is a larger initial investment, but it becomes a lasting addition to the property and influences its value.

To give you a more precise idea of the investments to plan for, here is a representative overview of the costs usually observed in Quebec, including purchase prices, installation, and ongoing maintenance.

*The prices and data presented in this article are provided for informational purposes only and are based on our internal data. They may vary depending on the pool model, selected options, property features, chosen equipment, the year of installation, and current promotions. For the most up-to-date information, please consult your Club Piscine store. Only prices displayed in-store or indicated in an official quote are valid.

Read our article on costs specific to above-ground pools.

The purchase price of the pool represents only part of the investment. Whether you opt for an above-ground pool or an in-ground pool, several additional elements must be considered from the start of the project:

• The safety enclosure compliant with regulations, whose cost varies depending on the material, dimensions, and configuration of your property.
• The municipal permit, generally required for the installation or replacement of a pool.
• Water heating, whose cost varies depending on the type of unit chosen, to which electrical installation costs performed by a master electrician may be added.
• Landscaping, which can include leveling the ground, walkways, plantings, or relaxation areas around the pool.
• Home insurance, whose premium could increase following the installation of a pool.
• Pool covers, such as solar covers or winter covers, whose price varies depending on the dimensions and the selected model.

These expenses vary from one project to another, but they deserve to be assessed from the start in order to establish a realistic budget and avoid unpleasant surprises.

To estimate electricity costs according to your usage, we recommend using Hydro-Québec's calculator.

Bring the purchase price down to the number of seasons of use. For example: a $5,500 above-ground pool used for 17 years amounts to less than $325 per season in purchase cost. Do the same calculation with the price and lifespan of the in-ground pool you are interested in, and you will compare two figures on the same basis

In Quebec, freeze-thaw cycles can cause ground movement and require rigorous winterization, regardless of the type of pool.

• A well-maintained above-ground pool has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, whether the structure is made of steel or resin. Regular maintenance makes all the difference.
• An in-ground pool is designed to last for many years, and its structure can outlast several generations of owners. Regular inspection, proper maintenance, and adequate winterization help preserve its longevity and prevent costly repairs.
• Mechanical components: the pump, heater, and filtration system generally have a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years, with an average of about 12 years. Their longevity varies depending on the quality of the equipment, its use, and its maintenance.

In other words, the material determines the longevity, but rigorous maintenance and proper winterization determine whether you will reach the stated lifespan.

It is best to do your research before setting a date for your first swim, as the difference between the two is considerable. One to two days are required for an above-ground pool and about 15 to 20 business days for an in-ground pool, and a little longer if the weather or access complicates things.

Things to check before choosing your pool:

• The quality of the land and any slopes 
• The type of soil, its stability, and the presence of rock
• The required access to the backyard for machinery: an in-ground pool requires an excavator, a concrete truck, and space for the excavated soil
• The location of electrical wires, easements, and your municipality's setback requirements
• Municipal bylaws that may limit certain developments on your property
• Nearby trees whose roots can damage an in-ground structure
• The municipal permit, which should be requested from your city before work begins

Regarding safety, the rule to remember is that access to the body of water must be secured, regardless of the type of pool. Depending on the installation's features and current regulations, different measures may be required to limit access to the pool and ensure the safety of users.

Good to know: always check with your municipality before purchasing. Bylaws vary from one city to another, and it is the municipality that issues the permit and confirms the compliance of your installation.

Good news: the basic maintenance tasks are similar for both types of pools.

You check the pH and water balance, clean the skimmer, and backwash the filter as needed, depending on the filtration type. However, the frequency of maintenance varies depending on the environment and equipment. For example, an in-ground pool with a waterfall or exposed to more debris may require more cleaning. A robotic cleaner can then be a valuable ally in making maintenance easier.

Closing a pool begins with cleaning the pool and balancing the water, followed by adding winterizing products. Then, the water level is lowered as needed, the plumbing is drained, and the equipment is protected against freezing. Finally, the winter cover is installed to protect the pool during the cold season. 

Some steps vary depending on whether it is an above-ground or in-ground pool, and improper closing can lead to costly damage.

Would you prefer to entrust this task to our experts? Book an appointment now to open or close your pool.

Consult our maintenance and closing guides to complete this step yourself.

Choose an above-ground pool if:

• Your initial budget is under $15,000
• You want to swim this season
• Your land has a slope or limited access
• You are not sure about staying in this house long-term

Choose an in-ground pool if:

• You are planning a complete landscaping project
• You want a specific shape or depth
• You see yourself in this house for many years
• Your land offers the necessary space and access for the work

In both cases, good advice is worth more than a technical sheet. Our advisors assess your land and budget before recommending anything.

Ask for the advice of an expert at a Club Piscine store near you 

The budget sets the first framework, and that is normal: you buy a pool with the money you have. Once this range is established, it is your land, the time you want to devote to maintenance, and the number of summers you plan to spend in this yard that tip the scales. Both options will give you dinners that stretch on, children who come out of the water at dusk, and ends of days spent floating without thinking about anything. It remains to choose the one that matches your reality.