Can Above Ground Pools Be Partially Or Completely Buried? What You Need to Know

September 8, 2025

But thanks to Ecopool’s patented modular design, Ecopool comes in unlimited shapes and sizes. Container pools connect like Legos onsite and allow you to build any size pool. For an in-ground look with no excavation, the homeowners installed this Endless Pools Original model aboveground and built the deck up on three sides. With a beautiful view of Lake Washington – where the water rarely gets above 65° F! – they can swim in place comfortably and with peace of mind in the pool's warm, shallow water. Of course, the most cost-efficient and hassle-free installation remains the aboveground pool.

Whereas a traditional above ground pool relies on the outward pressure of the water for its strength, the water is no match for ground forces on pools that are completely buried.
Both options have their unique benefits, and the right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and vision for your outdoor space.
Usually, they ask that you submit design drawings and an application for approval.

Which Offers Better Value?

The cost of relining an average-sized pool could exceed $4,000, adding to the long-term expenses of owning a vinyl pool. Therefore, while initially priced comparably to fibreglass pools, potential pool owners should take into account the cost of upkeep and replacement when considering vinyl pools as an option. This is because the concrete has to be fully cured before construction can be completed. Concrete takes at least 28 days to cure, under perfect circumstances.

Expert Pool Builders

This makes them much stronger than a typical ABOVEGROUND pool that only use a one-piece thin corrugated wall. The cost for a SEMI-INGROUND POOL is a little less than an INGROUND because we are not including a concrete deck. With proper planning and consideration, fiberglass pools are a unique alternative to the standard metal above-ground pool. A shipping container pool is simply a swimming pool created from a shipping container. Quick Installation Solutions: Meeting the Growing Demand for Therapy Pools offer a gateway to endless possibilities, seamlessly blending modern aesthetics with functional elegance. The cost of a semi-inground pool depends on factors like size, brand, and installation method. On average, they’re more affordable than inground pools, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $25,000. Radiant Pools are a high-quality option that provides long-term value for the investment.

The Top Shipping Container Pools

This semi inground pool is built directly into the sloping hill of this backyard, leaving half of it exposed. They’ve decided to add some stone to the outside wall and coping to keep the design in line with the concrete walkway and deck. Whether you’re dreaming of a lagoon-style retreat, a lap pool, or a geometric modern design, the possibilities are nearly endless. Usually the homeowner wants the pool to come off a higher deck on the house. The reality is that this is almost never the case IF the pool has a cantilevered concrete patio, which serves as an anchor for the structure. A final inspection is done before the process is complete and your pool is ready. Once the pool plaster is in, the pool can be filled with water and the chemical balances are established. Fiberglass is exactly what it sounds like—small fibers of glass.

How Loud Is an Endless Pool? The Noise Facts No One Tells You

We are working hard to bring you the best products and services with the best advice, to help you have the simplest pool owner's experience imaginable. Originally a DIY product, it's now the most popular choice for home owners with sloping blocks, access difficulties, or even working to a budget. It's called a Modular Pool because it comes in modules (or components) that are put together onsite to create your pool.

Radiant Thermal Insulated Above Ground, Semi InGround & In Ground Pools

Your pool includes a energy efficient TrisStar pool pump that uses 50% less energy than most older pool pumps. Plus there is a digital natural gas heater included to keep your pool warm for the whole season. The filtration is a low-maintenance cartridge filter that requires no backwashing. For sanitization we include a chlorine puck erosion feeder that only requires weekly top ups. Additionally, this added movement allows the fiberglass to separate from its backing.

How much do your pools cost?

Or have a daytime pool party, then unwind after dark in the hydromassage seats.
A pool has people constantly jumping in and climbing on the sides, moving the water and creating pressure on the side walls that the fiberglass shell will have to endure.
SIPs usually come in traditional shapes like circles, ovals, and rectangles.
Swim Spas, due to their self-contained systems and higher water temperatures, typically benefit from a full water change once per year for optimal water quality.

SEMI-INGROUND pools, which are sometimes referred to as Onground Pools, are INGROUND pools that are raised out of the ground. They use the same strong 14G galvanized steel panels like INGROUND pools. The multiple heavy panels come in various sizes ranging from 3’ to 8’ wide and are bolted together to form the shape of the pool. There are various depths of SEMI-INGROUND pools from 42” panels to 60” panels, very similar to an INGROUND pool.

Despite its modest dimensions, this pool provides an exceptional experience, perfect for relaxation and unwinding. They’re also not as customizable when it comes to depth or shape, and they don’t add much in terms of property value. If you ever decide to move or upgrade, you can take down an above-ground pool and start fresh. Many models can be set up in a weekend, making them perfect for families eager to start swimming right away.

How Much Do Semi-Inground Pools Cost?

All of our pools come standard with a high-quality water care system, with optional upgrades available for enhanced purification and convenience. Our all-in-one swim spas are typically installed outdoors, though they can also be placed in new construction spaces, covered patios, or garages where access and ventilation allow. Their self-contained design and insulated cabinet make them well-suited for year-round, all-weather use. Built for strength and designed to last, semi-inground pools are more affordable than full inground pools and blend seamlessly into any landscape. Their partially buried structure offers excellent insulation, helping maintain water temperature and reducing energy costs. Plus, with easier installation and lower maintenance, you get all the benefits of a luxurious pool without the high price tag. With customization options such as decking, landscaping, and unique pool shapes, semi-inground pools can seamlessly blend into your backyard and create a polished, high-end look. Adding features like pavers or retaining walls around the pool enhances its design and makes it look like an inground installation. An onground swimming pool gives you the look and feel of an inground pool at a lower cost and with faster installation. When I build a pool on top of the ground, I level an area one foot bigger all the way around. As an example, if building a 24’ round pool on top of the ground, I level a 26’ circle. This is just a good starting point for understanding that there are limitations. Some have the mentality that by burying an above ground pool, they can get the same thing as an in-ground for a fraction of the money. Swim Spas can be purchased with durable, insulated covers that help minimize heat loss and evaporation when closed. Modular Endless™ Pools are compact, which makes humidity easier to control than with larger indoor pools. Our Manual Retractable Cover (included with your modular pool purchase) can contain nearly 100 percent of humidity, helping protect your space from moisture buildup. A Modular Endless Pool(available with Hydrodrive™, Hydrodrive Plus and Hydrodrive Pro technologies), by contrast, is designed for either indoor or outdoor installation. Its compact components are delivered in pieces that can be transported through standard doorways and down stairs, to be assembled in spaces like basements, garages, and on rooftops. Although an automated cleaning system lowers the need for constant maintenance, it raises the initial cost of the pool by $4,000 to $5,000 or more. The installation of a pool is one of many projects that need permits from the nearby municipality. For this reason, if you are managing the project yourself, you must obtain local authority approval for the shipping container design before beginning the building process.

Versatile Installation

If you are want to have a pool somewhat in the ground and are on a budget, go with an above ground pool partially in the ground. Safety is paramount, so ensure all electrical installations comply with local codes. Dig trenches from your power supply to the pool area for electrical conduits. Install a GFCI breaker suitable for the pool's pump and lighting system. To explore locations and installation options for your Endless Pools Original Series pool, take our online Home Tour. Imagine taking in this grand Colorado landscape after you emerge from a swim!