The age old debate over what material is the best for an above ground pool still rages on. Both materials have their weak and strong points which can make them appropriate or simply not an option in particular situations. If you are considering a pool for your property, it is important that you know which type of pool meets your needs.
Steel is the more affordable, the heavier and definitely the more solid of the two materials. Steel pools stay seated where they are installed and have a long track record for durability. Steel pools may be as much as two to three times cheaper than aluminum pools. They are naturally rigid and tough. However, steel is likely not the material of choice if you are planning on moving and taking the pool with you.
Steel is also prone to corrosion and oxidization and special measures need to be taken to ensure that the steel is coated. Modern manufacturing methods include multiple layers of dips or coatings to protect the steel for up to 20 years.Quality pools have supporting beams dipped in hot zinc.However, a cheap, poorlycoated steel pool or a pool owner that neglects touching up scratches to the coating will see rust.
Aluminum is the new kid on the block when compared with steel. It has only become popular in the past 15 years because it resists inclement weather.When aluminum is exposed to air, it forms a tough, transparent layer of aluminum oxide that helps resists corrosion. Aluminum does not tarnish or rust. It has an extremely high strength-to-weight ratio and it actually gets stronger as it gets colder. This is obviously a very attractive quality if you live in a cold climate. Aluminum is alsolighter than steel, so it is a good choice if you may need to move the pool in the future.
Even though aluminum does not rust, or require special coatings or touchups, it will oxidize and weaken, given time. As aluminum oxidizes it can become rough and pit. This has been known to cause pinholes in the pool liner.
Aluminum pools range in price and quality too. Good quality pools have stronger, thicker frames which have a heftier price tag attached to them. Cheaper models can bend and dent very easily and pool walls are essentially panels riveted together.
The answer to the age old question of whether aluminum is better than steel and vice versa likely does not have an answer. The truth is that each type of pool has advantaged and disadvantages. When you are looking to buy, consider what qualities are important to you and how important permanence is on the property. Seek out a reputable dealer and a quality product that meets your needs and forget about the debate. What works for you in your particular situation is what’s important.
