If you’ve read some of my blogs, you already know I don’t always have the best luck when it comes to my house and the systems in it. Owning and maintaining an above ground pool in New Hampshire was no exception.

Although a home inspector doesn’t inspect swimming pools, we often recommend qualified pool inspection companies and can coordinate that inspection to happen alongside a home inspection. For some buyers, a pool is a huge bonus. For others, it’s the first thing they plan to remove—or reimagine—after purchasing a home.

Years ago, when my children were small, we decided an above ground pool would be a great way to keep the kids entertained without constant day trips. We had a 24’ pool installed after choosing the best location based on our property layout. That first summer? Amazing.

Then came New Hampshire winters.

Heavy snow compromised the uprights. A few years later, ice storms damaged the top rail and structure. Each time, we repaired or replaced the pool and squeezed out another summer of fun—but eventually, the fun started to fade.

The final straw came one fall evening, the same day I closed the pool for the season. The next morning, I noticed something didn’t look right. The entire backside of the pool had blown apart. Rocks and soil were thrown more than 20 feet, destroying the garden beds behind it.

That was it.

We officially became that New Hampshire family with a pool deck… and no pool.

Fast forward a few years, and now there are grandchildren. Suddenly, the idea of a pool doesn’t sound so terrible again—especially when a two-year-old asks, “Papa pool pleeeeease?”

Naturally, I considered an in-ground pool, but after researching the costs, that idea was quickly shut down:

• Vinyl liner in-ground pool: $25,000–$55,000

• Fiberglass in-ground pool: $30,000–$52,000 (and that’s with you doing major work)

• Concrete/Gunite pool: $50,000–$100,000+

Hard pass.

A Smart, Affordable Pool Alternative for New Hampshire Homes

Stock tank pool alternative for New Hampshire homes

Then I stumbled upon something that felt like a lightbulb moment: the stock tank pool.

This trend has been gaining popularity, especially in climates like New Hampshire where traditional pools take a beating from winter weather. Stock tank pools are:

• Affordable (hundreds, not thousands)

• Easy to install

• Easy to drain and move

• Perfect for toddlers, kids, and even adults cooling off

• Great for smaller yards or seasonal use

Some people call them “redneck pools,” but I’ve seen plenty that are beautifully landscaped and thoughtfully designed. With the right setup, they can enhance your yard instead of dominating it.

From a home inspection perspective, stock tank pools also eliminate many concerns associated with permanent pools—such as structural damage, long-term maintenance issues, and costly repairs after harsh winters.

It may be too late in the season for us this year, but I’ll definitely be watching for sales (hello, Tractor Supply 👀). Next summer, Nana and Papa might just have a pretty little stock tank pool ready for cooling off—without the stress, cost, or winter heartbreak.