- 1). Measure your pool. Before you can purchase a pool ladder you need to know how long of a ladder you will need for your pool. If you have an above-ground pool, measure from the top of the side of your pool to the ground, this will be the clearance necessary under any ladder that you purchase. To compare different ladders, you must know the size of ladder you are looking for.
- 2). Test the strength of the side of your pool. You can purchase ladders that will sit on the side of your pool. This is only possible if you have a very strong sturdy above-ground pool. If your pool bends or starts to collapse when an adult leans on the side of the pool, it is necessary to purchase a full ladder that will not touch the sides of the pool.
- 3). Measure width of anchor sockets for in-ground pools. Anchor sockets are small holes drilled into the cement surrounding an in-ground pool. These holes are designed to have the pool ladder inserted into them before it is placed into the pool water. The anchor sockets keep the ladder still and secures it into place. If you have anchor sockets already drilled into the ground surrounding your pool, make sure to measure them before purchasing a swimming pool ladder.
- 4). Choose a ladder. For an above-ground pool, most ladders are made of a strong resin construction that will support up to 300 pounds of weight. These ladders can be purchased in a variety of styles, sizes and colors to match the size of your pool and strength of your pool wall. For in-ground pools, ladders are usually made from a high quality stainless steel. Stainless steel will not rust and is easy to keep clean. When comparing which ladder you will purchase, keep in mind the measurements you previously took and the strength requirements for your pool.
- 5). Install your ladder. Whether you have an in-ground pool or an above-ground pool, the ladder instillation process usually will just involve placing the ladder in the location you choose. If you have an in-ground pool that does not have anchor sockets, it will be necessary to drill these holes into the cement before you can install the stainless steel ladder.
- 6). Drill anchor socket holes. If an anchor socket hole is needed, measure the width of the stainless steel ladder sockets and drill two matching holes that are two to three inches deep. The holes do not need to be any deeper as these ladders are designed to just barely sit in the anchor hole and then press up against the side of the pool for stability.
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