Can A Plunge Pool Be Above Ground?

At Plunge Pools Melbourne, we build high-quality above-ground plunge pools. We help homeowners choose the ideal materials, styles, and features to create a pool that looks great and stands the test of time.

This guide gives you everything you need to decide if an above-ground swimming pool is right for your home. Let’s dive in.

What Is an Above-Ground Plunge Pool?

An above-ground plunge pool is a compact, deep pool built above the ground, requiring no excavation. It’s installed on a solid base like a concrete slab or reinforced deck, offering a faster, more affordable alternative to inground pools—perfect for small spaces and quick setup.

Why People Choose Above-Ground Plunge Pools

• No digging – Perfect for rocky or sloped yards.
• Faster install – Ready in days, not months.
• Costs less – No expensive excavation.
• Custom look – Add tiles, decking, or elevation.
• Low maintenance – Uses less water, fewer chemicals, and less energy.
• More pool. Less hassle. Faster results. 

Above-Ground Plunge Pool Installation

An above-ground plunge pool is faster and easier to install than an inground plunge pool — but skip the planning, and you’ll regret it. Installing a plunge pool the right way means choosing the best location, preparing a solid foundation, and ensuring proper setup. Here’s how to do it right.

Step 1: Pick the Right Spot

• Solid Ground – Level and compact so the small plunge pool doesn’t shift.
• Good Drainage – Water should flow away from your house, not toward it.
• Sunlight – More sun = warmer water = lower heating costs.
• Easy Access – You’ll need room for maintenance and entry.
• Privacy – Unless you like putting on a show for the neighbors.

Step 2: Pick the Right Material 

Your plunge pool will be fibreglass pools, concrete, or vinyl liner. Each has pros and cons. Pick wrong, and you’ll pay for it.

Best for Melbourne? Fibreglass or concrete. They last longer and need less maintenance. No-brainer.

Step 3: Build a Rock-Solid Foundation

Your pool is heavy. Without a strong base, it won’t last. Here’s what works:

• Concrete Slab – The strongest, longest-lasting option.
• Reinforced Timber Deck – Great for elevated swimming pools, but must hold serious weight.
• Compacted Gravel Base – Cheaper, but needs expert prep to stay stable.

Step 4: Place and Lock Down the Pool

Once the base is set:

• Crane or forklift to move the swimming pool shell into place.
• Level it up so it stays put—no shifting!
• Add steel framing for that extra muscle.

Step 5: Plumbing, Filtration & Electrical Setup

Water stays clean and safe with a solid filtration system.

• Install a pump and filter (sand or cartridge).
• Pick a sanitation method – chlorine, saltwater, or mineral.
• Set up heating – solar, gas, or electric heat pump.
• Get a licensed electrician for wiring—don’t risk it.

Step 6: Make It Look Like a Million Bucks

A pool without the right finishing touches? Looks unfinished. Here’s how to level it up:

• Decking – Timber, tile, or composite for a seamless, high-end look.
• Landscaping – Plants, lighting, and paving turn it into a backyard oasis.
• Fencing – Legally required if under 1.2m high in Melbourne.

Above-Ground vs. Inground Plunge Pools: Which One Wins?

Deciding between above-ground and in-ground? It comes down to cost, install time, and flexibility. Here’s why above-ground crushes it:

Why Go Above-Ground?

• Costs Less – No digging. No excavation. More money in your pocket.
• Less Site Work – Needs a concrete slab or reinforced deck—that’s it.
• Move It If You Want – Remodeling? Moving? Take it with you.
• Fast Setup – Days, not weeks. Get in the water faster.
• Install Anywhere – Works on decks, rooftops, even sloped yards.
• Safer for Kids & Pets – Higher walls = fewer accidents.

The Downsides of Above-Ground Plunge Pools (Know Before You Buy)

• Doesn’t Blend In as Easily – small Inground swimming pools look more built-in.
• Needs a Solid Base – Requires a reinforced deck or concrete slab.
• Not as Deep – Usually 1.2m to 1.5m, shallower than inground.
• Aesthetic Upgrades Required – May need decking, cladding, or landscaping for a polished look.

Above-Ground vs. Inground Plunge Pools: Side-by-Side

Verdict?

Want a fast, affordable, and flexible pool? Go above-ground.
Want a permanent, high-end backyard feature? Go inground.

Both work. Pick what fits your lifestyle.

How to Keep Your Above-Ground Plunge Pool Clean & Running Like New

Skip maintenance? Enjoy a green, bacteria-filled swamp. Do it right? Crystal-clear water year-round. Here’s how:

Routine Cleaning & Water Treatment

• Test water weekly – pH, chlorine, alkalinity. Get it right.
• Vacuum or skim debris – Leaves, dirt, bugs? Gone.
• Shock the pool – Every few weeks to kill bacteria and keep it fresh.

Seasonal Maintenance Cheat Sheet

• Summer – Run the filter longer. More people = more dirt.
• Winter – Lower chlorine. Cover the pool. Keep the junk out.
• Spring/Fall – Check for leaks, cracks, and filter issues before they get worse.

Heat Your Pool Without Burning Cash

• Solar Heating – Free energy from the sun. Great if you get enough sunlight.
• Heat Pump – Runs efficiently year-round. No weather excuses.
• Gas Heater – Fast heating, but your wallet feels it too.

Keep Algae Out & Water Clear

• Use algaecide – Especially in humid months (or risk swimming in slime).
• Run filtration 6–8 hours daily – Still water = bad news.
• Cover the pool – Less debris. Less cleaning. More swimming.

Make Your Above-Ground Plunge Pool Look Insane

Forget “just a pool.” Turn it into a statement. Want modern and sleek? Or a natural, resort vibe? Your call. Here’s how:

1. Finishing Materials

• Tile Cladding – Sleek, high-end. Go glass mosaic, porcelain, or stone.
• Stone Veneer – Resort-style luxury without the resort price.
• Timber Paneling – Blends seamlessly with decks & outdoor spaces.
• Concrete Render – Minimalist, industrial, clean.

2. Spa Jets & Heating 

• Hydrotherapy Jets – Muscle relief. Spa vibes. Total relaxation.
• Gas or Electric Heating – Swim year-round. No freezing. No excuses.
• Solar Heating – Eco-friendly. Saves money. No sun? No heat.

3. Smart Pool Automation 

• Automated Chlorine & pH Balancers – Perfect water. No effort.
• Remote Temperature Control – Adjust heat from your phone. Lazy? Smart.
• Self-Cleaning System – Filters & sanitises automatically. Less work. More swimming.

4. LED Lighting & Water Features – Make It Look Insane

• LED Mood Lighting – Night swims? Insta-worthy. Choose your colors.
• Waterfalls & Fountains – Adds luxury. Sounds amazing. Feels expensive.
• Bubblers & Deck Jets – Looks cool. Feels even better.

Conclusion

An above-ground plunge pools offer style, function, and savings—without the $50K+ in-ground price tag. Designed for visual appeal, you can go modern and sleek or create a resort-style retreat in your backyard. Your space. Your call.

Want it done right? Contact Plunge Pools Melbourne. We’ll design it, install it, and make your backyard unstoppable. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you put an above-ground plunge pool on a deck?

Yes—but your deck better be strong enough. Use steel framing or concrete footings to handle the weight. Get a structural engineer to sign off before installation, or risk a disaster.

2. Do above-ground plunge pools need fencing?

In Australia, if your pool is under 1.2m, you must install a compliant fence. Over 1.2m? You might be off the hook, but check council regulations before assuming anything. Fines aren’t fun.

3. Can you heat an above-ground plunge pool?

Absolutely. Use solar panels (cheap), heat pumps (efficient), or gas heaters. Add a thermal pool cover to lock in heat and cut energy costs. Swim all year—even in Melbourne winters.

4. What Are the Structural Requirements for an Above-Ground Plunge Pool?

Your pool weighs tonnes. Weak foundation? Big problem. Here’s what works:

• Concrete Slab – Strongest. Most stable. Built to last.
• Compacted Gravel – Cheaper, but needs expert prep.
• Reinforced Decking – Great for elevated pools, but must handle serious weight.