Questions for Optimum Pool Owners

[BosKat]

Hello -

I just put a deposit down on a 16’ by 28” oval Optimum pool, which I plan to have installed mostly inground. I went with this “semi inground” model because I can’t afford a traditional inground pool but I want the look and feel of it.

Since I’m just beginning my journey, could other Optimum pool owners share their tips, lessons learned, photos? It is hard to visualize what this installation will entail and what the end result will look like.

I want to install a deck or patio surrounding the pool, but just can’t swing the cost this year. So I also need ideas on a temporary surround this summer to keep the pool somewhat clean.


Thank you!!

 

[kimkats]

I saw your post on the other Optimum pool that had that great patio. I am sad to say they have not been on the boards since last Dec. so don't wait on an answer from them

For temp decking or dirt stopper you could use cheap fake turf on plywood lifted with pavers or bricks or ???? something small to get and keep the wood off the ground a bit so it will not rot as fast.

Kim

 

[BosKat]

Thanks Kim - that’s a good idea. I just need something cheap to get us through this season so I can save enough money to build something proper next year .

 

[Maurino17]

Sorry I missed this one! I took a slight break from my pool obsession for the winter. Lol
I’m going to private message you, I think I can help you avoid my mistakes

 

[kimkats]

@Maurino17 I would love for you to post your mistakes on this thread. I really think it could be helpful for anyone that buys that kind of pool. You don't have to name names to anything if that is part of why you are asking for the PM.

 

[Texas Splash]

BosKat, welcome to the forum! Lot's of folks here will be happy to help you with your project. Post & search all you need. Let us know how we can help.

 

[BosKat]

So now I'm hoping to fully sink the pool inground. The problem is, there was an existing unground pool on the property that was jackhammered/filled-in (they never pulled any permits so the town has no records of it - I found out from a neighbor about the pool). And this is the only spot where I can put the new pool. The contractor said he will do some exploratory digging to see what is down there.

Now I'm getting nervous about the whole project. Depending on what he finds, the excavation costs could go up. And it will determine whether the new pool can be inground our must be somewhat aboveground.

I'm thinking about scrapping the whole idea and just getting an above ground pool, but I know I won't be happy with that.

Any advice from others?

And any buyer's regret for purchasing a semi inground? Whether you buried it all the way or part way? I'm self employed, single mom and just can't afford a traditional inground pool.

 

[Maurino17]

@Maurino17 I would love for you to post your mistakes on this thread. I really think it could be helpful for anyone that buys that kind of pool. You don't have to name names to anything if that is part of why you are asking for the PM.

hi,

My installer was fine, except for taking way too long, lol. . . I just asked Boskat to PM me because I could write a novel here.

In short my experience with burying the optimum halfway probably didn't save much money because I ended up doing a wall around the pool anyway which probably cost the same as a deck would have. Here is a pic from before winter, still need to get landscaping back.

i went a little more than halfway and then ended up having to do the concrete collar and really just saved a few bucks on what would have been some extra digging and dirt removal had I gone completely in ground. I also didn't do a deep end so used sand bottom which saved money.The big difference for me was I don't have to pay additional property taxes because it is not fully in ground, and in North New Jersey taxes are already ridiculous as it is.

So my advice is do semi inground because you like it, not to save money. Unless you really don't plan on much hardscape or big deck.

Untitled by maurino17, on Flickr

 

[kimkats]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and insight! That sure is pretty so I think it was well worth it for save on the taxes!

Kim

 

[BosKat]

To save money, I decided on a 21' round Optimum pool, which will be buried part way, with approximately 24" out of the ground. Eventually I want to build a deck around it (see the general idea in the attached photo). But until I get the funds to build the deck, what should I put around the pool in terms of materials to keep the kids from tracking mud into it? Astroturf? Any other temporary suggestions?

 

[Aprilspool]

You could do astro turf - but I would make a sort of foot wash ... maybe with some river rocks or pavers to stand on with a hose to wash off little feet ... teach them to do it every time before they get into the pool

 

[splashpad]

You could do astro turf - but I would make a sort of foot wash ... maybe with some river rocks or pavers to stand on with a hose to wash off little feet ... teach them to do it every time before they get into the pool

2nd the foot bath tub!
You can do it simple or fancy

We do it simple, a $4 tote from Walmart (which stores pool equip parts in the winter time, since we have an off season)