Do I need to take all the water out of an above ground pool for winter?

• <div><p>When you’re winterizing your pool, you need to drain some of the water to prevent cracking and warping from ice. Nonetheless, you should never drain all of the water. Ideally, you’ll lower the water level to anywhere from four to six inches below the skimmer. This will protect the structural integrity of the walls, help prevent your pool liner from warping, and reduce damage from debris. </p></div>

Top-rated above ground pool installation pros.

Best above ground pool installation pros near Darby, MT

Q: What’s the best temperature to paint a pool deck?

• <div><p>The best temperature to paint a pool deck is between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, because many paints and sealers require temperatures warm enough for the chemical reaction to take place for proper curing. The paint should not be allowed to freeze, and temperatures above 90 degrees can cause the paint to dry too quickly, also preventing the chemical reaction from following through to completion.</p></div>

Q: What are the proper chemical levels for a pool?

• <div><p>Pool chemical levels should include a pH between 7.4 and 7.6, alkalinity between 80 to 120 ppm, and chlorine from 1 to 3 ppm. The size and type of your pool determine additional chemical levels, such as stabilizers and pool shock, but you can get to know these numbers using our <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/pool-maintenance-101.htm">pool maintenance 101 guide</a>.</p></div>

Q: Is it worth converting to a saltwater pool?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/pool-remodel-cost.htm">Pool remodel costs</a> average over $9,000, so what about converting your pool to salt water instead? It is certainly an investment on the front end, but homeowners stand to save money on maintenance by switching to a saltwater pool. You will need to replace the salt cell every five years or so, but you will not have to clean your pool as frequently, either. The smell of chlorine also will not be on your swimsuits or skin, which is a benefit many appreciate.</p></div>

Q: Do I need permits for an inground pool?

• <div><p>Yes, you will need <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-building-permit-cost.htm">building permits</a> for an inground pool, and your pool installation company should pull them for you. The permit filing fee will usually sit between <b>$400 and $1,800</b>, and it should appear on your contract or invoice. You may want to confirm with your contractor that they will pull all necessary permits. You might also need a permit for a new fence, as many municipalities have special fencing requirements for properties with pools. A fence permit costs between <b>$50 and $500</b>. This expense may not be included in your pool installation estimate.</p></div>

Q: Do I need to take all the water out of an above ground pool for winter?

• <div><p>When you&rsquo;re winterizing your pool, you need to drain some of the water to prevent cracking and warping from ice. Nonetheless, you should never drain all of the water. Ideally, you&rsquo;ll lower the water level to anywhere from four to six inches below the skimmer. This will protect the structural integrity of the walls, help prevent your pool liner from warping, and reduce damage from debris. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Above Ground Pool Installation pros in Darby, MT

*The Angi rating for Above Ground Pool Installation companies in Darby, MT is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Above Ground Pool Installation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Above Ground Pool Installation companies in Darby, MT is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Above Ground Pool Installation needs.

Last update on January 12, 2026

Reviewed in January 2026
Hello! I am a contractor in the Bitterroot Valley specializing in residential framing and exterior timber work. I have worked with Lasting Decks for a while now, and have been impressed with their quality and professional workmanship. Their friendly and knowledgeable personnel have been very...
Lasting Decks LLC
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Reviewed in August 2024
These guys are great and I will never use anyone else for roofing needs. I have dealt with a lot of different contractors over the years but hands-down Double L Roofing is the best. Very professional, superb quality, great price, courteous, reliable and polite. Thank you Double L Roofing team!
Double L Roofing, Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2024
Luke maintains the cleanest and most organized job site I've ever seen! Hardworking, honest, go-getter who does meticulous work.
Built Right Construction
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Reviewed in May 2024
Walter was very thorough, explained what he found. I would recommend him for your home inspections.
WTB General Contractor & Home Inspector LLC
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Reviewed in June 2023
The team was punctual, professional and friendly. They not only fixed the problem, but took photos of the finished project. They communicated the expectations and procedure through the whole process. We will definitely use for our next project. They kept the work area clean as they went.
Mountain Air Roofing And Coating, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2022
Lotus Painted performed better than expected, with a focus on detail that was beyond my requirements. I am very pleased.
Lotus Painting LLC
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Reviewed in October 2021
Great communication from start to finish. Move was from Oregon to Hamilton MT. Tanner and his crew did a great job of loading. Sergio was our truck driver and managed the unloading. He actually unloaded almost half of the truck load as he waited for the local labor to arrive and help with the...
PDX Movers, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2017
Trevor was always on time,did over and above what was first discussed. Price for the work was very reasonable and Quality was fabulous. Trevor will be my first call on my next project.
TNG Excavation, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2016
Prompt, courteous, and most importantly Kevin takes great pride in his work. A true professional.
Porter's Solar Panel Cleaning, Etc.
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Reviewed in April 2014
This has been the worst business experience we have ever had. Owners have been deceptive, dishonest, and unscrupulous. Charges have been inflated several times. "Overhead and profit" were added to the final bill, which were not on previous invoices.Workers attempted to install flooring without...
All Valley Flooring
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Top-Rated Above ground pool installation pros in Darby - Updated Nov 2026

Above Ground Swimming Pool or Accessories - Repair or Service

Serving Darby, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"The tech was very knowledgeable and went above and beyond to satisfy us. Our faucet was broken would not attach to the sink as the copper seal broke to the water lines."

Recommended by81%of homeowners

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,689

)

Above Ground Swimming Pool or Accessories - Repair or Service

Serving Darby, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"Called AHS....who sent service request to AAA Flexible Pipe. Adam came out quickly and installed new pump just before HEAVY rains hit...Fast and efficient service from AHS and AAA FLEXIBLE PIPE CLEANING."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

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Install Above Ground Pools FAQs, answered by experts

The best temperature to paint a pool deck is between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, because many paints and sealers require temperatures warm enough for the chemical reaction to take place for proper curing. The paint should not be allowed to freeze, and temperatures above 90 degrees can cause the paint to dry too quickly, also preventing the chemical reaction from following through to completion.

Pool chemical levels should include a pH between 7.4 and 7.6, alkalinity between 80 to 120 ppm, and chlorine from 1 to 3 ppm. The size and type of your pool determine additional chemical levels, such as stabilizers and pool shock, but you can get to know these numbers using our pool maintenance 101 guide.

Pool remodel costs average over $9,000, so what about converting your pool to salt water instead? It is certainly an investment on the front end, but homeowners stand to save money on maintenance by switching to a saltwater pool. You will need to replace the salt cell every five years or so, but you will not have to clean your pool as frequently, either. The smell of chlorine also will not be on your swimsuits or skin, which is a benefit many appreciate.

Yes, you will need building permits for an inground pool, and your pool installation company should pull them for you. The permit filing fee will usually sit between $400 and $1,800, and it should appear on your contract or invoice. You may want to confirm with your contractor that they will pull all necessary permits. You might also need a permit for a new fence, as many municipalities have special fencing requirements for properties with pools. A fence permit costs between $50 and $500. This expense may not be included in your pool installation estimate.

When you’re winterizing your pool, you need to drain some of the water to prevent cracking and warping from ice. Nonetheless, you should never drain all of the water. Ideally, you’ll lower the water level to anywhere from four to six inches below the skimmer. This will protect the structural integrity of the walls, help prevent your pool liner from warping, and reduce damage from debris.

The Darby, MT homeowners’ guide to above ground pool installation services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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