42" Panels vs 48" Panels

42" Panels vs 48" Panels

We offer both 42" and 48" Steel Walls. 42" Wall panels are standard for our pool kits and provide a traditional 3'4" shallow end depth which is great for young children. The 48" wall panel is becoming very popular and provides a deeper shallow end depth of 3’10”. Growing popularity for this wall height is due primarily to those who play pool sports, as the taller panel provides a deeper shallow end without sacrificing flat surface area.

As you can see in the diagram, the 42" panel is depicted by the dotted line whereas the 48" panel is the solid line. The 48" panel offers a more ideal water level so that standing in the shallow end is an enjoyable hangout area for adults. In addition, due to the 6" of added depth, the slope leading to the hopper is more gradual than in a 42" wall pool - This leads to a safer diving pool by providing additional space for a diver to arc and surface without risk of hitting their head.

While the panels are 42” and 48” in length, this will not be the final depth of your shallow end. Keep in mind that 2” of those panels will be covered by your pool base pre-mix and your water line typically falls between 4-6 inches below the top of your panel. Therefore, your shallow end’s final depth will be as follows:
*42” panel* = shallow end a depth of 34”-36”
*48” panel* = shallow end a depth of 40”-42”