Small backyards are not a reason to write off fun upgrades like an above ground pool. You can find both soft and hard-sided above ground pools as small as 8 feet in diameter as well as 9-by-18-feet rectangles or 10-by-16-feet ovals. You will need at least 2 to 3 feet around the outside of your pool for additional support and for placing pool equipment, but a professional pool installer can help you find a model that's right for your tiny outdoor space.

Shock can clear a cloudy pool if the problem is insufficient free chlorine or an accumulation of chloramines from “spent” chlorine. However, it can make the issue worse if a high level of chlorine or a pH imbalance is the root cause of the problem. Test your pool water before treating the cloudiness to ensure you’re making the right call.

The cost to repair a swimming pool varies widely, with an average cost around $700. The total expense can range from as little as $10 for simple DIY fixes to over $20,000 for extensive overhauls. Key factors influencing the cost include the type of pool (in-ground vs. above-ground), its size, and the specific repairs needed. For above-ground pools, repairs typically cost between $100 and $700. For in-ground pools, costs are higher, generally ranging from $350 to $2,700. Common repairs include patching liners, fixing plumbing or electrical lines, and repairing equipment like pumps and filters. More complex issues, such as fixing a cracked beam, can cost $6,000 or more, while major projects like resurfacing a concrete pool can cost between $10,000 and $20,000.

If you wait until fall or winter, you might see sales on pools and pool materials, enabling you to save a good amount on this home improvement project. Sometimes pool servicing companies try to make space for next year’s inventory, or the materials are cheaper when fewer construction projects happen during colder months.