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Swimming in your own above-ground pool this summer would be a dream come true. But in order to realize that dream, there are a number of decisions that require your attention beforehand. One such decision is whether to invest in a hard-sided above-ground pool or a soft-sided above-ground pool.
At Doughboy Pools, we want our customers to enjoy their swimming pool for as long as possible. That’s why we’ve devoted ourselves to building hard-sided pools with the strongest, most quality-controlled materials in the industry. Here, we’ll explain what a hard-sided above-ground pool is and why it’s a better investment than a soft-sided above-ground pool.
What is a hard-sided above-ground pool?
A hard-sided above-ground swimming pool has a sturdy structure made of rigid materials (e.g., steel or resin). The walls of Doughboy pools are made from corrugated, super heavy-duty steel. These pools are popular additions to backyards, taking on various sizes and shapes (e.g., oval and round).
Why is a hard-sided above-ground pool a better investment?
Hard-sided pools, like the ones we make at Doughboy, carry a number of advantages over their soft-sided counterparts.
Durability and Longevity
Hard-sided pools are more durable and long-lasting than soft-sided pools. The materials used to construct the walls and frame of hard-sided pools are stronger and more rigid, making them less prone to damage and degradation.
In contrast, soft-sided pools are made of thinner, more supple material like vinyl, which is susceptible to punctures, tears, and fading. Over time, exposure to the elements and water can degrade the material, resulting in leaks and other issues.
More Customizable
Hard-sided above-ground pools offer more customization options than soft-sided pools. The rigid structure of a hard-sided pool allows for more features such as an in-wall entry system, lighting, and, in the case of Doughboy Pools, a deep swimming area of up to 7 feet when installed with our expandable liners. Additionally, hard-sided pools are available in a wider range of sizes and shapes, making it easier to find one that fits your backyard and preferences.
Better Aesthetics
When you’re working with a hard-sided pool, you give yourself more aesthetic freedom. Its sturdy structure and sleek design create a more polished and refined appearance. Furthermore, the rigid walls enable you to recess the pool into the ground, thus achieving an inground pool look on an above-ground pool budget.
Soft-sided pools, on the other hand, are built more for economy than aesthetics. Consequently, they’re typically much more limited in their visual capacities.
Better Maintenance
A hard-sided above-ground pool is, generally, easier to maintain than a soft-sided pool. The firm structure of a hard-sided pool makes it less prone to leaks and other issues, which means you will spend less time and money on repairs.
Additionally, hard-sided pools are easier to clean and sanitize, as the walls and floor of the pool are more resistant to algae and bacteria growth.
Which hard-sided above-ground pool is best?
The decision of which type of above-ground pool to invest in ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget, and available space. While soft-sided pools may be more affordable and easier to set up, a hard-sided pool offers better durability, greater aesthetic capabilities, and easier maintenance. In the end, a hard-sided pool will provide greater long-term value.
When it comes to choosing the best hard-sided pool, Doughboy has a long-standing reputation in the pool and spa industry for building above-ground pools that are bigger, better, stronger, and last longer. Each component of our steel-frame and resin-frame pools is manufactured in our 660,000-square-foot factory in West Helena, Arkansas. We choose high-quality raw materials and turn them into high-performance products, all the while maintaining stringent oversight so our customers can enjoy their pools for decades.
Do you need help choosing the best hard-sided above-ground pool for your backyard? Reach out to your local Doughboy Dealer. They’ll help you determine the best size, shape, and liner for your dream pool.
