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Above Ground Pools

Install a pool almost anywhere

From hillsides to rooftops and almost anywhere in between,Compass Pools have options for every site

Do you have a sloping site or need your pool above ground level?

As building technology and architectural design has progressed over the years it has become far more common to see people building homes on sloping or difficult sites. This often means that when it comes time to put a pool in the ground, we have to get creative with our approach.

Many brands of Fibreglass Pools are limited to simple flat sites – essentially the pool needs to be fully inground to ensure the structural integrity of the floor and walls. Luckily we knew 20 years ago that we could provide a cost effective design solution which would prevent pool buyers from having to spend tens of thousands extra on complex ground works or specially-engineered concrete pools.

Our Australian Design Award-Winning MaxiRib ™ system allows you to install a Compass Pool completely out of the ground. Our experienced dealer network has now been installing Compass Maxi Rib pools across New Zealand for nearly 25 years in places you wouldn’t believe (including rooftops).

3 ways to install a Compass Pool in your backyard

Fully in-ground pools

To this day, the most common installation is a fully inground pool. If you have a flat site, this will almost always prove to be the most cost-effective option.

Partially above ground pools

In some cases, the design of your pool area may call for your pool to be out of the ground up to 1m. These situations often occur when you want your pool to meet the height of an existing deck, retaining wall or other design feature. Your Compass Pool dealer may suggest a specialised out-of-ground coping beam or our specially engineered Maxi-Lite system to ensure your pool remains strong and reliable.

Fully-above ground pools

Many people think that if they want to install their pool significantly above natural ground level that they will need to conduct major earthworks and build retaining walls. This isn't true. We invented the Maxi Rib system to eliminate the extra work and reduce the added engineering costs the other pools would require. In most cases installing a Compass MaxiRib Pool will be more cost effective than the added earthworks/retaining or Concrete Pool alternatives.

Talk to your Local Compass Pools Dealer if you:

  • Have a sloping site which will require some or all of your pool walls to be above ground level
  • Want to include a vanishing/ infinity edge with your pool or windows in the wall of your pool
  • Wish for your pool to be installed on a deck/patio area above natural ground level
  • Want to install a pool close to a building
  • Need your pool to be partially out of ground for landscape design reasons
 Contact us 

more features:

Self-Cleaning

Imagine owning a swimming pool that saved you money, used less chemicals and CLEANED ITSELF! Upgrade your Compass pool with a unique water circulation system designed to reduce chemical usage, eliminate cold spots and keep your pool clean of debris without the need for regular hand vacuuming or any other cleaning equipment.

Learn more

Bi-Luminite Colour Technology

Bi-luminite technology helps the interior surface of your pool come to life when filled with water. Using two specialised colour layers creates an amazing 3D effect which illuminates the large colour chips gives each pool a unique finish that can’t be replicated. Oh…and did we mention that the Bi-luminite colour system also provides an added level of structural and cosmetic protection to your Compass pool?

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Ceramic core

Compass Pools has been manufacturing innovative fibreglass ceramic pools for decades. Our patented ceramic core technology allows us to build you a tougher and more durable pool, which is designed to cope with seasonal ground movement, and the effects of long-term immersion in pool water.

Learn more

Frequently Asked Questions About Above-Ground Pools

What is Maxi Rib technology?

Maxi Rib is a proprietary Compass Pools technology featuring external structural ribs integrated into the pool shell during manufacturing. Filled with concrete on site, these ribs grant the pool complete structural independence, allowing for above-ground installation without costly retaining walls or major earthworks.

How much does a Maxi Rib above-ground pool cost?

A Maxi Rib pool typically adds $12,000 to $25,000 to a standard installation, depending on your site's specific topography. Even with this addition, it remains vastly more cost-effective than building custom concrete retaining structures or executing massive excavation works. Your local dealer can provide an accurate quote following a free site assessment.

Can any Compass pool shape be installed above ground?

Yes. Every Compass pool design, including plunge pools, spacious family layouts, and Fastlane lap pools-can be built with Maxi Rib technology for above-ground or semi-inground placement. You get total freedom of choice regarding size, shape, and custom features.

What is an Express Pool?

Express pools are fully freestanding, all-fibreglass pools designed to sit directly on a level concrete slab with zero excavation required. Because they contain no steel or timber components, they will never rust or rot. Delivered pre-plumbed and ready for immediate use on day one, they offer a durable, low-maintenance alternative to precast concrete, complete with our full range of custom colors and self-cleaning systems.

Can I get an infinity pool on a sloping site?

Yes. Sloping terrain provides the ideal backdrop for a vanishing edge. Maxi Rib technology delivers the structural support required to elevate the pool's exposed edge safely, creating a seamless infinity pool effect on sites once considered impossible to build on.

Do above-ground Compass pools have the same features as inground pools?

Yes. Above-ground models feature the exact same ceramic core construction, vibrant Bi-Luminite finishes, optional Vantage self-cleaning systems, and comprehensive warranties as our standard inground range. You get uncompromised quality regardless of how your pool is installed.

How do I know which installation method is right for my site?

Book a free, no-obligation site inspection with your local Compass Pools builder. They will evaluate your land's slope, soil type, and access requirements to recommend the most practical and budget-friendly installation path for your backyard. Use the form below to request your consultation.

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