Accessing an above-ground pool is different than an in-ground. There are many different kinds of entry systems. Most online and local pool stores will have an A-frame ladder included in their pool packages. It’s referred to as a starter ladder.
The purpose of a standard package is to give a customer everything needed to start enjoying their pool.
The different types of ladders and steps are:
- Deck to Pool ladder or Ground to Deck Ladder
- A-Frame ladder
- Walk-in Steps
- Ladder and Step Combinations
- Complete Stair Entry system with locking gate
How will you access your above-ground pool?
The best thing about it is how you will be accessing your pool in the weeks after installation. How you access the pool will determine what you should research.
Many people will get the A-frame ladder and then have to buy steps down the road when they build a deck if this is your decision to build a deck. Then it would help if you considered buying both an A-Frame ladder and steps.
Buying them as part of a package will save you more money than purchasing separately. Most pool outlets will allow you to upgrade items in your package, saving you money.
What is a Deck to Pool ladder?
It’s a ladder extending from the deck into the water—also utilized as the ground to deck ladders. The custom decks from Vynalworks Canada come with both of these options. You get a resin deck and two ladders—one to get from the ground to the deck and then into the pool.
One side attaches to your deck, and the other end stretches into the pool. This is the lowest priced ladder offered and ranges in costs from about $200.00 to $400.00. Here is a decent Deck to Pool Ladder on Amazon.
What is an A-Frame ladder?
A ladder-shaped like an A, Thus it’s called an A-Frame type of ladder. A-Frame ladders are the most popular and many to choose from. You want one that is steady and can attach to the pool.
Which A-Frame ladder do I like? I like the Rollguard ladder from Confer Plastics on Amazon. They are easy to build and last longer than most ladders in the same price category. It has a roll guard that covers the rungs of the ladder. Making it impossible for kids to have access without parent supervision.
Others are more expensive, $300-$700 compared to a deck to pool ladder. Why $700 for an A-Frame ladder? Some of them have a gate on the outside. Some have larger rungs and a gate. There are many kinds on the market.
What are Walk-in Steps?
Steps are the most popular entry system for above-ground pools. They attach to the deck and go into the pool. Most people will have deck access and want these because they allow easy entry and exit. They allow children to enter the pool and gather in shallow waters on the steps. Pricing ranges from about $400-$800.0
When choosing steps for your pool, try to make sure they have fewer pieces. With fewer pieces, it will make pulling them out for winter easier.
Steps are the most popular entry system for above-ground pools. They attach to the deck and go into the pool. Most people will have deck access and want these because they allow easy entry and exit. They allow children to enter the pool and gather in shallow waters on the steps. Pricing ranges from about $400-$800.0
I recommend the following steps
- Confer 1X Step One
- Wedding cake Steps
- Confer Step (Not curved section)
- Festiva Steps
- Royal Entry Steps
Confer 1X Step One
Although it is a put-together variety of steps. It’s super easy to install and least expensive compared to all other steps. See them on Amazon here.
Wedding Cake Steps
The Wedding Cake Steps are a one-piece design and are mostly located at your local pool stores. Beware of many knock-off designs that will have you building these steps for days on end.
Confer Step (not curved addition)
This one is another put-together type that isn’t hard to build. It’s easy to get these steps in and out of the pool in the fall when it’s time to close. If you purchase the curved base the steps become super hard to handle and require several people to remove in the fall. This is the one you Confer Step you want on Amazon.
Festiva Steps
These steps are only available via local retailers who have the right to sell. They are not on Amazon. The 1st and 3rd treads are hollow and allow sand to be placed inside them. They are sealed and the treads weigh the unit in place. Easy to install and easy to get out in the fall.
Royal Entry Steps
These steps like the Festiva are only available via local retailers who have the right to sell. They are not on Amazon.
What are Ladder and Step Combinations
These ladders and steps are for entry from the ground into the pool. Most are the ladder to steps in the pool, and some are steps to steps. This system allows either a ladder on the outside of the pool that attaches to steps inside the pool.
They also come reversed, so the steps sit on the ground and connect to a ladder going into the pool.
These combinations are available in kits. Ladder and step combinations can be costly, ranging from about $400 to $1,200.
Complete Stair Entry system with locking gate
These offer excellent stability for entry from the ground to the pool, are handicap-accessible, and have a locking gate. Have two rails going from the ground to the top. They are the most costly of all steps on the market.
They range from $800-$1,400.
Your city or town’s building departments want to know about your ladder or steps.
When you apply for a pool permit, you will need to show how you enter and exit your pool. It is a good idea to decide on your entry system ahead of time. Have the manual ready to show the building inspector.
You can also ask for a manual or brochure before you buy. Show your city/town and get their approval first.
I hope today, I have given you information that was helpful to you in your search for a ladder or steps for your A.G. Pool.