There’s something truly special about creating something with your own hands—something that transforms your backyard, a space that brings your family together, and a retreat that makes every day feel like a vacation. That’s exactly what happens with DIY above ground pool installation.
If you’ve ever wondered whether above ground pool installation is something you can handle on your own, the answer is a resounding yes. At BrightWater Pools, we believe that owning a pool should be easy, fun, and affordable, and that includes the installation.
With the right tools, a little preparation, and a high-quality BrightWater above ground pool kit, you can have your new above ground pool up and running in just a couple of days. And the best part? You’ll save hundreds or even thousands of dollars compared to hiring a professional, making your above ground pool cost even more budget-friendly.
Let’s talk about how you can confidently install your new pool with no special skills required.
Can You Do DIY Above Ground Pool Installation Yourself or Do You Need a Pro?
We get it. When you picture installing a round above ground pool or oval above ground pool, you might imagine a complicated process requiring a construction crew and a weeks-long timeline. But that’s simply not the case.
BrightWater pools are specifically designed for DIY installation. Whether you’re a first-time pool owner or someone who loves a good weekend project, the process is straightforward.
What Makes a BrightWater Pool Different?
People around America are installing BrightWater pools in their backyard paradises. Whether you choose the beautiful Bright Classic™, Bright Hybrid™, Bright Icon™, or Bright Icon+ Salt™ model, you can discover shapes, sizes, and personalized customizations to design a pool all your own. Each BrightWater swimming pool comes with written instructions, as well as helpful video guides to make installation straightforward. With BrightWater above ground pools, you’ll find:
✅ Easy-to-follow installation guides and videos that walk you through each step
✅ Pre-cut, precision-engineered materials that fit together seamlessly
✅ A simple assembly process that doesn’t require special skills or equipment
✅ American-made above ground pool kits that include everything you need for success, plus extra equipment and accessories you can add to your pool package at a discounted price
Plus, when you shop our online above ground pool store at BrightWater, your pool ships directly to your home in seven days or less, so you can start installing your backyard oasis almost immediately.
A Quick Overview of Above Ground Pool Installation
Installing your own quality hard sided above ground pool isn’t complicated, but it does require some planning. Here’s a general look at the process so you know what to expect. Watch our H.I.I. videos for a complete DIY above ground pool installation tutorial.
1. Pick the Perfect Spot
First, find a level area in your yard or level out the area you need. Uneven ground can cause water displacement and pool instability. Clear the area of grass, rocks, or debris. If you have a yard that is sloped, the Bright Icon™, and Bright Icon+ Salt™ can both support semi-inground pool installation.
2. Lay the Foundation
Next, you’ll need a smooth, compacted surface under your pool. Excavate the base according to manufacturer instructions. After this is level, many people use sand and/or foam padding to provide extra protection for their above ground pool liner and added comfort for swimmers. Adding our Liner Protector to your pool kit purchase is a great idea. You can place it on the floor of the pool base after you build your structure.
3. Build the Pool Structure
Your above ground pool kit includes all the parts needed to construct the frame, whether you’ve chosen a round above ground pool or oval above ground pool. This step involves assembling the base rail, securing the supports and wall, and attaching the top rails and caps.
4. Install the Liner
Once the frame is up, it’s time to install the liner. For best results, add a Pool Cove™ liner guard with your pool purchase for extra protection before your vinyl liner is installed. Next, carefully place your above ground pool liner inside, making sure it’s smooth and free of wrinkles. You can use a shop vac between the wall and the liner to eliminate air pockets. As you begin filling the pool with water, the liner will settle into place.
5. Add the Equipment & Finishing Touches
Your above ground pool kit includes everything needed to connect the pump, filter, and skimmer. These components keep your water crystal clear and ready for swimming. With the pool full and the filtration system running, it’s time to install any accessories like above ground pool entry steps or pool lighting. Then, just balance your water chemistry, and you’re ready to swim.
Sound doable? That’s because it is!
For a more detailed step-by-step breakdown, you can check out the Bright Classic Round Pool Installation Guide our our other installation guides in the documents section of each pool model to see exactly how easy the process is. We also have pre-delivery instructions to help set you up for success.
Is a DIY Above Ground Pool Right for You?
If you love saving money, getting hands-on, and enjoying the satisfaction of building something amazing, then above ground pool self install is 100% for you. You’ll know every part is secure, you’ll have complete control over your budget, plus, you’ll never have to wait for a professional installer’s schedule to open up.
What about bragging rights? You will love telling the story about how you installed your very own beautiful backyard pool. And the best part? Once your pool is up and running, all that effort pays off tenfold when you’re floating in the water, drink in hand, soaking up the sun.
Order Your DIY Above Ground Pool Kit Today
If you are ready to take the plunge into pool ownership on your own terms, BrightWater Pools makes it easy. We offer the best above ground pools for sale, with swimming pool kits that ship straight to your door in seven days or less.
Whether you’re looking for a small round above ground pool for family fun or a large oval above ground pool for hosting unforgettable summer parties, we’ve got the perfect fit.
So, gather the whole family, customize and order your favorite BrightWater pool today, and make this the day you finally bring home the backyard pool you’ve always dreamed of.
