Can I Install an Above-Ground Pool in the Ground?

2026 pool building season has officially begun! Although contrary to the name, many above-ground pools can, in fact, be installed in the ground. When an above-ground pool is buried partially underground, it is commonly referred to as a semi-inground pool. There are some above-ground pools that can even be fully installed under the ground; however, they must be designed for this purpose as not all pool walls can handle this type of installation.

What Turns an Above-Ground Pool into a Semi-Inground Pool?

If you recess your above-ground pool into the ground to any capacity, it could be considered a semi-inground pool. Nearly all above-ground pools can be set into the ground one or two feet, but it takes a pool with reinforced walls in order to fully bury it. 

Radiant Pools®

Radiant Pools offers above-ground pools that are highly versatile and can be installed in various ways, including semi-inground or fully inground. This gives you the flexibility to customize your pool to fit seamlessly into your outdoor space. In particular, models in the Metric Series are specifically designed for semi-inground or fully inground installation, allowing for greater customization and integration with your backyard landscaping. 

All Radiant Pools are 100% American-made and constructed with high-quality materials to ensure excellent structural integrity, making them a reliable choice for any pool installation. With a Radiant Pool, you can trust that your pool will not only look great but also perform exceptionally well, whether it's installed above ground, semi-inground, or fully inground.

Doughboy^® Pools

Doughboy Pools are another popular above-ground pool choice that can also be used as a semi-inground pool, offering the best of both worlds. The unique design and construction of Doughboy Pools make them ideal for recessing into the ground, allowing for more installation options and greater customization.

Doughboy Pools are made with high-quality materials and advanced engineering, ensuring they are built to last and perform well whether they are installed above ground, partially in the ground, or fully inground. With a semi-inground Doughboy Pool, you can enjoy all the benefits of an above-ground pool while still achieving the aesthetic and functionality of a traditional inground pool.

When Should I Consider Burying an Above-Ground Pool?

There are several reasons why homeowners decide to build a semi-inground pool. If this is something you are considering, check your local requirements for permits and with your HOA for any restrictions. 

Building on a Slope

One reason homeowners decide to go with a semi-inground pool is that their backyard is sloped to a point where leveling a spot would be more work than excavating a section to bury an above-ground pool. This not only makes installation easier but also allows for more creative landscaping and outdoor living space design.

Allowing for Easier Access

Another reason you may decide to bury your above-ground pool is that you want to be able to get into your pool easier. When the entrance to your pool is closer to or at ground level, steps or ladders may not be required for entry. This makes access easier for those of all ages. 

Just for Looks

Many homeowners dream of having an inground pool that seamlessly blends into their backyard and landscaping. While an above-ground pool offers many of the same features, they do not generally blend in as well as they can block your view of the rest of the yard. By burying your pool under the ground, you are essentially creating a semi-inground pool with all of the same benefits as a traditional inground pool. 

A-1 Pools Has Your Solution

Here at A-1 Pools, we have your solution if you’re considering installing an above-ground pool in the ground. We carry both Radiant Pools and Doughboy Pools, giving you many options when it comes to semi-inground pool builds. We also carry Embassy Pools if you are only planning on recessing your pool a foot or two into the ground. Any of these pools can also simply be set on the ground as an above-ground option. 
Explore our available pool options on our website. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us or come in and see us in-store. We would love the opportunity to help you in your pool journey!