Semi-Inground Pools: Why they need to be finished to look beautiful

Let’s just say it plainly.

When a semi-inground pool is first installed — before any decking, concrete, or landscaping is added — it does not look finished.

In fact, it can look like a large tin can partially buried in your yard.

That’s not a knock on the pool itself. Structurally, it may be strong and well-built. But visually? It’s incomplete.

And this is where many homeowners get surprised. And it is a really BIG Problem in our area.

When installed, a semi-inground pool typically has:

• Exposed metal or resin walls

• Visible backfill dirt around the perimeter

• No finished edge transition

• No visual integration into the yard

Without finishing work, it can feel temporary — even if it’s meant to be permanent.

This is why a semi-inground pool should never be budgeted as “just the pool.”

Although that is HOW IT IS SOLD TO YOU sometimes in our area.

It must be finished out properly to look intentional and beautiful.

Why Finishing Matters

The difference between:

“Why is there a metal barrel in your yard?”

and

“Wow. That looks amazing.”

…is the finishing.

1. Decking

A deck instantly transforms the look of a semi-inground pool.

Options include:

• Pressure-treated wood

• Composite decking

• Wrap-around multi-level decks

• Partial viewing platforms

Decking:

• Hides exposed walls

• Creates a smooth transition

• Makes the pool feel built-in

• Adds usable entertaining space

Without it, the pool looks unfinished. With it, the pool becomes part of the design.

2. Concrete or Hardscaping

Concrete or pavers can:

• Cover exposed wall sections

• Create clean edges

• Add retaining walls

• Blend the pool into landscaping

Stamped concrete, brushed concrete, pavers, or decorative stone can completely change the feel of the space.

This is what turns “partially buried pool” into “custom backyard feature.”

The Real Cost Conversation

Here’s where honesty matters.

If you’re budgeting $15,000-35,000+ for a semi-inground pool — but you don’t factor in decking or concrete — you may end up disappointed with the appearance.

Most finished semi-inground projects land between:

$30,000 – $60,000+

Why?

Because the beauty is in the finishing work.

And the finishing work is what people notice.

The Right Way to Approach a Semi-Inground Project

Instead of asking:

“What does the pool kit cost?”

Ask:

“What will this look like when it’s completely finished?”

That includes:

• Pool structure

• Excavation

• Backfill

• Drainage

• Decking or concrete

• Landscaping

When designed intentionally, a semi-inground pool can be as nice as an inground pool— especially on sloped yards where it follows the natural grade. But then why not just inground?

But without finishing?

It will look exactly like what it is:
A partially buried aboveground pool.

Who Is a Semi-Inground Pool Best For?

It’s a great option if:

• You have a sloped yard that you do not want to put a retaining wall in on.

• You’re willing to invest in proper finishing for this project.

• You want a custom look without full concrete construction.

It’s not ideal if:

• You want a “done” look with minimal additional work.

• You’re not planning to add decking or hardscaping.

• You expect it to look like a luxury inground pool without the added investment. (because then you could just get inground!)

Final Thoughts

A semi-inground pool has potential.

But potential only becomes beauty when the project is finished properly.

Think of the pool itself as the structure.

The decking, concrete, and landscaping?
That’s the design.

If you’re considering this route because of your land layout, plan the entire project — not just the pool kit. When you do, you can create a backyard that feels cohesive, elevated, and built with intention.

Because no one wants a tin can in their yard.

They want a backyard they’re proud of.

Final Note: We don't recommend this type of pool usually ...ever.