Round vs. Oval

One of the biggest decisions when shopping for an above ground pool is choosing which shape and size works best for you. On one hand you have the traditional round pool. On the other hand you have the option to go with an oval shaped pool. We will go over some of the benefits and disadvantages below regarding both types. One thing worth mentioning before you read any further is that round pools are significantly less expensive than oval pools. This applies both to the pools themselves as well as the installation of the pool. We will detail the reason why there is such a difference in price below. If you are interested in oval pools or your yard size and shape dictates that only an oval will work in your situation, then please read below for advice on selecting your oval pool.

Round vs. Oval Comparison

Round

Round pools provide more swimming area at a lower price
Best dollar per gallon. Round pools are less expensive. (The largest round pool is less expensive than smaller to average sized oval pools)
Round pools have higher structural integrity due to equal pressure being applied to the pool wall
Larger round pools can offer the best lap swimming along with plenty of room for additional swimmers in the pool. ( The largest oval pool is 18′ wide by 33′ long whereas the largest round is 33′ each way offering more room to swim laps either way.)
Round pools have lower replacement liner cost
Round pools are offered in a wider variety of sizes ranging from 15′ all the way up to 33′. These sizes go up or down in 3′ increments.
Round pools are easier to keep clean as there are less “dead spots” where the current and circulation of the water takes place.

Oval

Oval pools are more expensive to purchase as well as install. (An installer can typically install 2 round pools in the time it takes to properly install an oval pool. This results in a more labor intensive, higher priced installation.)
Ovals may be the better choice when fences, buildings, trees or power lines limit the available area
Oval pools can offer a better set up for lap swimming in situations where larger round pools cannot be installed
Oval pools can suffer from “bowing” walls due to requiring lateral supports on the long sides of the pool
Oval pools require under ground strapping to attach the walls and keep them from pushing out at the bottom. This strapping can sometimes reveal itself due to “kicking off the walls” when swimming and can then be seen as a “ribbed” effect on the bottom of the pool

The most popular choice: Round

Here at Krossber Brothers we see families choosing round pools over oval more frequently than not. The advantages of a round pool over an oval are just to significant. The only time we see the oval as an advantage over round is when the customer’s yard is longer than wide, or when only an oval shaped pool could fit due to property line set backs, garages, septic systems, and home layout. All of the pools we sell come with the option of being round or oval. The end result between the two will result in a happy family either way, its just that the round pool tends to offer quite a bit more for your money.

Oval Pool Tip

Visible and Invisible Oval pool Supports

Oval pools require side supports to handle the pressure from the water pushing out on the pool wall. Traditionally most oval pools had the triangular support brackets just like in the first picture to the left. Nowadays “invisible” supports on oval pools are becoming more available. These “invisible” support type ovals offer more room on the sides and have a much cleaner look overall.