Types of Radiant Pools Available in Wisconsin

What if you didn’t have to choose between an above-ground and inground pool?

That’s one of the biggest advantages of Radiant pools. Their unique construction gives Wisconsin homeowners far more flexibility than a traditional pool, including options for yards where a conventional inground installation may be difficult.

At Bachmann’s, we offer two main types of Radiant pools: the versatile Metric Series and fully inground options. Depending on the model and your property, you can create everything from a practical above-ground setup to a polished backyard retreat that looks completely built in.

If you’re comparing types of Radiant pools, here’s what you need to know before deciding which one belongs in your backyard.

TL;DR: Which Radiant Pool Is Right for You?

• Want an above-ground pool? The Metric Series offers an attractive, durable alternative to traditional above-ground designs.
• Have a slope or uneven yard? A semi-inground Metric installation can work with the natural grade of your property.
• Love the built-in look? Explore fully inground options for seamless integration with your patio and landscaping.
• Can’t decide yet? That’s exactly where Radiant’s flexibility shines. Your yard, budget, and design goals can help determine the right installation.

What Makes Radiant Pools Different?

The real difference starts somewhere you can’t see: inside the pool walls.

Radiant’s 2-inch wall panels feature an EPS foam insulation core bonded between acrylic-coated aluminum sheets. The result is an R-10 structurally insulated wall designed for strength while reducing heat loss through the pool walls.

For Wisconsin homeowners, that insulation is particularly appealing. When warm swimming weather doesn’t last forever, an energy-efficient pool that helps retain heat can help you get more out of the season.

The construction is also resistant to stress and corrosion, and properly installed and maintained saltwater systems can be used with Radiant pools.

But what really sets Radiant apart is what you can do with that construction.

Radiant Metric Series Pools: One Pool, Plenty of Possibilities

If flexibility is high on your wish list, Radiant Metric Series pools deserve a closer look.

Unlike a conventional above-ground pool that’s designed to sit entirely above the yard, Radiant Metric pools can accommodate above-ground, semi-inground, and fully inground installations. That makes the Metric Series especially useful when you’re working around an existing deck, uneven terrain, or a backyard where a standard installation isn’t ideal.

You can also personalize the finished pool with different shapes, coping options, liners, steps, lighting, and surrounding decks or landscaping.

In other words, you’re not just picking a pool.

You’re choosing how that pool fits into your backyard.

Radiant Inground Pools: Create a Backyard That Feels Complete

For homeowners who already know they want the classic built-in appearance, Radiant inground pools offer another path to creating a permanent backyard swimming space.

A fully inground installation sits flush with the surrounding ground, making it easy to incorporate the pool into a larger outdoor living design with decking, pavers, landscaping, seating, and other features.

It’s a great fit when the pool isn’t simply an addition to your backyard but it’s going to become the centerpiece.

Installation Versatility: One Pool, Three Ways

Here’s where choosing between the types of Radiant pools gets interesting.

With the Metric Series, the same core pool system gives you multiple installation possibilities.

Radiant Above Ground Pools

Radiant above ground pools give you many of the practical advantages people love about above-ground swimming pools while upgrading the construction and overall appearance.

They can be especially attractive if you want to keep site preparation simpler or incorporate the pool into an existing or new deck.

Radiant Semi Inground Pools

Here’s where Radiant really opens up the possibilities.

A sloped backyard doesn’t necessarily have to ruin your pool plans.

Radiant semi inground pools can be partially installed below grade, allowing the design to work with changes in elevation rather than fighting against them. That’s why semi inground Radiant pools are worth considering for Wisconsin homes with hillsides or uneven terrain. Proper drainage and site preparation are important for these installations, so the property should be evaluated before deciding on the final design.

The finished result can also create a more built-in appearance without requiring the pool to be completely below grade.

Fully Inground Installation

Want the pool to feel like it has always belonged there?

Going fully inground gives you the traditional appearance many homeowners picture when designing a backyard pool, with plenty of opportunities to finish the surrounding area with concrete, pavers, decking, or landscaping.

How Much Do Radiant Pools Cost in Wisconsin?

There’s no single price that applies to every Radiant pool.

Your final investment depends on factors such as pool size and shape, installation style, site conditions, excavation, decking, steps, coping, equipment, and other upgrades.

Generally, an above-ground project requires less extensive site work than semi-inground or inground installation. Once excavation, drainage, landscaping, and custom finishes enter the picture, the overall project cost can increase.

For a more detailed breakdown of what to expect, read our Radiant pool cost guide before setting your budget.

New to Pool Ownership?

Buying your first pool comes with a lot of questions.

What size should you choose? What will maintenance involve? What equipment do you actually need? And what should you know about preparing your pool for a Wisconsin winter?

Our first-time pool owner guide walks you through the essentials so you can make your decision with a much clearer idea of what pool ownership actually involves.

Explore Radiant Pools at Bachmann’s

The best pool isn’t necessarily the biggest or most expensive one.

It’s the one that makes sense for your yard, your budget, and the way you want to use your outdoor space.

That’s exactly why Radiant’s versatility matters.

It doesn’t matter if you’re picturing a classic above-ground setup, a Radiant semi inground pool built into a slope, or a completely inground backyard retreat, Bachmann’s can help you compare the options and determine what makes sense for your Wisconsin property.

Explore our full pool selection or visit Bachmann’s in Madison or Brookfield to talk through your options and start planning your backyard.

Types of Radiant Pools FAQs

Can Radiant pools be installed on a slope or hillside?

Yes. The Metric Series can be installed semi-inground, making it a strong option for properties with slopes, hillsides, and changes in grade. The exact installation will depend on your property, drainage, and site conditions.

Are Radiant pools good for Wisconsin winters?

Radiant pools are designed with insulated wall panels, and the Metric Series can be winterized similarly to other pools with several Radiant-specific steps. The Metric Series warranty also includes protection from winter damage, subject to the manufacturer’s warranty terms. Proper winterization remains essential for protecting the pool and equipment during Wisconsin’s colder months.

How long do Radiant pools last?

Radiant pools are built with structurally insulated aluminum wall panels designed for durability and resistance to stress and corrosion. Radiant also backs its pools with a fully transferable, non-prorated lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects, giving homeowners added confidence in the long-term investment.