After 30 years and over 1,000 installations, here are the best above ground pools you can buy in 2026 — rated by wall construction, longevity, and real-world performance, not Amazon reviews. I’m Mike Kern, a Certified Pool Operator and licensed MA contractor (#191300, zero complaints). I’ve installed, repaired, and torn down more above ground pools […]
By Mike Kern | MGK Pools Inc | 30+ Years Experience | CPO Certified | MA Contractor License #191300 I am your DIY inground above ground pool specialist. I’ve been installing pools for over 30 years, and over the last 10 years I’ve carved out a niche doing exactly this. Here’s what most pool companies […]
How do I choose the best above ground pool? Ask an expert! When you need to get up to speed with fast, you hire a consultant. If you wander into a big box pool store or call The Pool Factory (online store), you are not talking to experts, you’re talking to trained secretaries and teenagers. […]
Bonding an above ground, semi inground, or inground swimming pool is all pretty much the same. First I will explain the process, then break down the steps, and help you figure out what supplies you need for your pool. ⚡ Before You Continue: Pool Bonding is Required by Law NEC 680.26 requires all permanent above […]
We have a new pool called the Hudson. It is charcoal pool framing and a new steel dark gray wood grain wall from Aquasports 52. They now have five resin frames to choose from, and this is the eighth wall print now. They let you choose the color of your frame and the wall you […]
This is probably the most common question I get from pool shoppers: “Should I get a steel wall or an aluminum wall?” After 30+ years of installing, repairing, replacing, and selling above ground pools, I have a strong opinion on this. But I’m going to give you the full picture first so you can make […]
Kayak produces a high-quality pool, no doubt about it, and as a competitor, my intention is not to criticize them. The Kayak stands among the Elite pool options, and when it comes to quality and durability, there’s minimal, if any, difference among the top three anymore. Ultimately, the deciding factors boil down to the cost […]
A former Doughboy dealer’s honest comparison—and where to get the same quality for less. Let me be upfront: Doughboy makes good pools. I was a Doughboy dealer for years. I’ve installed their pools. I recommend them to customers regularly—especially if you’re on the West Coast where shipping my pools doesn’t make financial sense. Doughboy pools […]
Last Updated: November 2025 My Radiant Reviews title here is a bit clickbait like but I think you’ll thank me for it. This review comes from someone who’s seen just about every pool ever made. In 30+ years, I’ve been a dealer for multiple pool lines, installed Doughboy and Swim n Play pools (now gone?), […]
Clean your pool filter when the pressure gauge reads 7-10 PSI above your normal clean pressure — not on a calendar schedule. Understanding how and when to clean your pool filter, along with proper filter maintenance literally separates those who are frequently frustrated with their pool, and those who say pool maintenance is easy. I’ll […]
Plunge pools are small and provide the advantages of a great place to cool off and splash about, while not taking up to much room in your backyard. They are made up of all kinds of materials and come in a variety of depths. To sum it up a plunge pool is just a small […]