Does size really matter?? lol

[kkidik]

We are going to upgrade our 16 x 48inch Intel Metal Frame pool to an 18 foot (which is all the room we have) but aren't sure about also going up to 52 inches... it's several hundred dollars (we are going to go Ultra Frame I believe)... and it's heavier and we have to ship outside the US (Turks and Caicos Islands).

Any comments on the pleasure scale adding these 4 extra inches?? is it worth $250 - $300 in price difference?? We frequently have kids in the pool so it might make a difference with the little guys too, we are trying to consider all possible repercussions..

Thanks

 

[pooldv]

Doesn't seem worth it to me.

 

[Germando]

For 300 it is not worth it. I have the 18 ft x 52, but i got it for a steal at toysrus last year for 189 bucks. I would spend the 300 difference to get a nice pump/filter. Thats my 2 cents. Also the extra inches could make it more hazardous for the little ones.


G

 

[kkidik]

I'm inclined to agree

 

[f3justusc]

For the price, I would skip it and use the money for better equipment.

 

[PAGirl]

Depends on the size of your children. Our 48" pool was great, until..... My son shot up to 5'11". Then the pool barely made it past his waistline. Looked like he was in a kiddie pool. We just upgraded to a 52", but it isn't full yet. If your kids are no where close to puberty, I would go with what your budget is comfortable with. If they are nearly teens, I'd suggested the deeper one.

 

[DarrelB]

We find the 16' x 48" plenty for all of us adults and the kids. Save your money and put it towards a better pump and filter system.

 

[chipchip]

For me, I think it does make a difference. I like the extra height.

 

[northrn]

Size definitely matters.

 

[msgtdan]

You might try doing a search, there have been some here who have dished the middle of the intex's a little (4-5"?) to get a little extra depth. I don't remember the specifics, but a search might find them.

 

[jmcdtucson]

Going from 16x48 to 18x52 is 25% increase in surface area and almost 50% in total volume. That's pretty signficant if you ask me.
Adding 4" to our pool depth made a HUGE difference.

 

[kris77]

I agree....I have a 54" pool. And my son is only 6 but he is already wanting a deeper pool. He's 52" right now. He can touch the bottom on his tip toes right now. I cant imagine when he gets to be 16. 54" is perfect for cannon balls and kids jumping in. I think my boy would hit bottom with a 48" pool when he jumps in.

 

[DarrelB]

So, I guess it all boils down to what your going to do with it. Jump in, cannonballs, etc (NOT RECOMMENDED BY THE MFG), or just have a nice pool to play in, float around etc.