You’ll get a roomy 12′ x 24′ x 52″ oval pool with an alloy-steel frame, 20-gauge UV vinyl overlap liner, sand filter/pump, ladder, and skimmer, so you can DIY a weekend install. It’s affordable and practical for seasonal family use, but the thin liner and alloy steel need careful care to avoid punctures and corrosion. Expect routine maintenance and winterizing; keep realistic lifespan expectations and continue if you want full setup, care, and value details.
Some Key Takeaways
- 52″ depth with 12′ x 24′ oval alloy-steel frame provides roomy swim area for families and light lap use.
- Kit includes 20-gauge UV-protected vinyl overlap liner, heavy-duty A-frame ladder, skimmer, and sand filter/pump combo.
- 20-gauge overlap liner is thin and puncture-prone; expect careful handling and seasonal replacement risk.
- Alloy-steel frame resists rust if coatings remain intact, but scratches and long-term corrosion need monitoring.
- Good budget-friendly DIY option for seasonal use, provided you commit to regular maintenance and winterizing.
What the 52 Boulder Easy-Build Oval Pool Includes and Key Specs
Although the 52″ Boulder Easy-Build Oval Pool is marketed as a weekend DIY kit, it still packs the core components you need to get started: a 12′ x 24′ x 52″ alloy-steel frame with a 20-gauge UV-protected vinyl overlap liner, a sand filter-and-pump combo (sand not included), a heavy-duty A-frame ladder rated to 300 lbs, and a surface skimmer. You’ll appreciate the clear specification list and included parts, which make an assembly checklist straightforward. Be critical about durability limits—thin liner, overlap style—and check warranty details with the manufacturer. This kit fits communal backyard use but demands realistic expectations. It’s a good option for homeowners who want to enhance their yard with a weekend-ready above-ground pool.
How Assembly Works: Step-by-Step DIY Timeline and Tools Needed
Now that you know what comes in the kit and the limits of the liner and frame, let’s walk through how assembly actually unfolds so you can plan time, helpers, and tools. You’ll spend a weekend with help from one or two friends. Day one: foundation preparation — clear, level ground or compacted sand; lay out liner. Day two: assemble frame, clip liner overlap, install ladder and skimmer. Final day: hook up sand filter and pump, fill and test for leaks. Keep a concise tool checklist: level, rubber mallet, screwdriver, adjustable wrench, tape measure, shovel, and utility knife. Many homeowners find these pools create a great outdoor oasis when paired with decking and landscaping.
Durability & Performance: Liner, Steel Structure, Pump/Filter, and Skimmer
When you evaluate durability and performance, focus on the 20-gauge vinyl liner, alloy steel frame, sand filter/pump combo, and skimmer as a system rather than separate parts. You’ll appreciate UV protection and overlap construction, but check liner seam strength—overlap liners can be less forgiving than heat-welded seams. The alloy steel offers solid rust resistance if you maintain coatings and avoid scratches during install. The sand filter/pump combo delivers decent filtration efficiency for this size, yet monitor flow rates and backwash needs. Finally, confirm skimmer placement for effective surface debris capture so the system works together for reliable, shared pool ownership. Also consider how a steel frame pool complements your yard’s outdoor living space and long-term usability.
Who This Pool Is Best For and Real-World Use Cases
This pool fits homeowners who want a weekend DIY install and a roomy swim space without the cost or permanence of an in-ground pool; if you’ve got a level yard and can handle basic tools, the 12′ x 24′ oval gives families or active adults plenty of lap and play area while the 52″ depth keeps water shallow enough for kids and lounging. You’ll appreciate this for family gatherings, casual exercise, and low-key backyard therapy. It suits renters, first-time pool owners, and tight-budget households who want community moments without permanent landscaping. Expect straightforward setup, seasonal use, and shared ownership pride. Consider a backyard refresh with rectangular above-ground pools to match your outdoor living goals.
Pros, Cons, and Value: Cost-to-Features, Maintenance Tradeoffs, and Final Buying Recommendation
Although the Boulder Easy-Build Oval gives you a lot of swim area for the price, you should weigh the modest build quality and ongoing maintenance against its upfront value. You’ll like easy DIY assembly, included pump/filter, ladder and skimmer—good basic features for family use. Downsides: 20-gauge liner and alloy steel mean more vigilance against punctures and corrosion; expect seasonal storage or winterizing tasks. If you plan conscientious care, you’ll see long term savings versus frequent repairs. Recommendation: buy if you want affordable, roomy seasonal fun and belong to a community of pragmatic, budget-minded owners. The site also offers a range of oval above-ground pools and accessories to enhance your yard and match different budgets.
Some Questions Answered
Does the Pool Come With a Warranty Registration Process?
Yes — you’ll need to register to activate warranty coverage. You’ll find registration steps on the manufacturer’s support or product page; follow their online form or mail-in instructions and keep your proof of purchase. Don’t skip this: registering confirms your coverage and speeds claims. If anything’s unclear, contact WaterThat’s support for help. You’ll feel included in their customer care and protected once registration’s completed.
Can Winterizing Accessories Be Purchased Separately?
Yes — you can buy winterizing accessories separately. You’ll want a winter cover and drain plugs to protect the liner and stop freeze damage; they’re usually sold by the manufacturer or third-party suppliers. Pick a durable winter cover sized for a 12′ x 24′ oval and corrosion-resistant drain plugs. You’ll feel confident joining other owners when you choose compatible, well-reviewed accessories and follow the manufacturer’s winterizing guidance.
Is Ground Preparation/Leveling Included or Available as a Service?
No, site leveling and excavation services aren’t included with the kit; you’ll need to arrange them separately. You should plan to hire local contractors for site leveling or excavation services if your yard isn’t already flat and clear. That guarantees proper support and warranty compliance. You’ll feel more confident if you get professional prep, but community DIY guides and local neighbors’ recommendations can help you find trusted crews and share costs.
Are Replacement Liners or Parts Sold by the Manufacturer?
Yes — replacement availability is offered, but you’ll want to confirm specifics. You should contact the manufacturer contact channels to order replacement liners or parts like the A-frame ladder, skimmer, or sand filter components. Expect overlap liners, OEM hardware, and pump parts to be available through WaterThat or authorized dealers; warranties and stock can vary. Stay assertive when you call so you get exact part numbers, pricing, and delivery options.
Can the Pump Run on a Timer or Solar Power Setup?
Yes — you can run the pump on a timer or work toward solar integration, but you’ll need to confirm specs first. The sand filter/pump combo is typically timer compatibility-friendly; use a weatherproof pool-rated timer and follow amperage limits. For solar integration, pair the pump with a suitable solar inverter or a dedicated solar pool pump system. You’ll want professional wiring or installer help to make certain safe, reliable operation and warranty compliance.
