Summertime is here, and so is the heat!

Many people choose to cool off by taking a nice, relaxing dip in the pool, but there are many people who have yet to buy a swimming pool. If you desire a swimming pool that is relatively inexpensive to buy, without high maintenance costs associated with "in-ground" pools, an outdoor above-ground pool just might be the pool for you.

Above-ground pools are easy to build and cost less to construct compared to in-ground pools. The majority of these pools are sold as kits which can be assembled by someone with no prior pool building experience. Some above-ground pools are portable, and can be easily moved whenever required. There are different types of above-ground pools to choose from including: metal side, inflatable ring and frame set pools.

Metal side pools are made of a thick vinyl lining, and sheet metal. The sheet metal is reinforced by metal railings along the wall. A thick lining is placing inside the pool and reinforced onto the pool rails. The pool can be filled with water after the lining is installed. One advantage to a metal side pool, is that they can withstand more force and wear than a soft material pool. Metal side pools are available in various diameters and are usually up to four feet in depth.

Inflatable ring pools have soft sides, and come assembled ready to be inflated with an air pump. After the pool is filled with air, it is ready to be filled with water with no additional work required. An advantage to owning an inflatable ring pool, is that the pool can rise in depth, to accommodate the amount of water in the pool. Also, this type of above-ground outdoor pool, can easily be transported to another location at will. One disadvantage to owning an inflatable ring pool however, is they are susceptible to punctures due to the soft material. A patch kit should be purchased when buying an inflatable pool, to repair it in the event of a puncture.

Frame set pools are soft sided pools that are made of either plastic or metal tubing. The tubes are assembled into a frame that includes a railing, which extends across the diameter of the pool. The vinyl lining is then fitted over the pool frame and attached tightly. After the lining is installed, the pool can be filled with water.

Long summer days are in, and the kids are out- out of school that is. Combine the two, and it can only mean one thing- time to get the pool ready! Kids love to swim as a way to cool off on those hot summer days, so if you haven't bought a pool already, now is the time. Here are a few suggestions for cheap outdoor pools to keep your bunch happy.
If you are looking for a baby pool, Sunsmart Baby Hideaway Pool is a great choice. Equipped with a removable sunshade, this inflatable pool will keep your toddler out of the sun while enjoying the outdoors. Priced at a mere $11.98 (Toys 'R Us), this durable pool is a bargain you won't want to miss.
For the older children, Sizzlin' Cool Spray Pool is a durable inflatable pool designed like a shark. Attached to the pool is a sprinkler that easily hooks up to your hose for more water fun. A few dollars more than the Sunsmart Baby Hideaway Pool, ($14.99 Toys 'R Us) the Sizzlin' Cool Spray Pool is a slightly larger pool, so it will accommodate more children.
Another inflatable spray pool, Intex Spray and Splash Whale Pool features a detailed whale design- so detailed, it even comes with a blow hole. The spray is easily connected to your garden hose so this cheerful whale can easily add to the fun. (Walmart $10.00)
For the ultimate aquatic experience, try the Banzai 3-D Shark Lagoon Pool (Walmart, $10.00). Pictures come to life with the included pair of 3-D Aqua Optic goggles. Your children feel like they're swimming alongside sharks in the ocean.
Depending on your needs, each pool has its own great features. For a house with mainly younger babies, Sunsmart Baby Hideaway Pool is a great choice. If your child is the type that enjoys his water at his own pace, without the help of any sprinklers, the Banzai 3-D Shark Lagoon will keep them busy with fun. For the adventurous ones, the Intex Spray and Splash Whale Pool is a great pool, though the Sizzlin' Cool Spray Pool appears to be a bit larger. Whichever way you decide to go, remember- it's splash time!